
For individuals who have watched Pedro Almodóvar’s journey since the beginning, the notion that he, too, is growing older and using his films to explore themes of illness, death, or simply the natural slowdown life brings, can be a tough reality to accept. After all, no one enjoys contemplating their own mortality. However, it can be more painful to contemplate the loss of an artist we admire, particularly someone as vibrant and timeless as Almodóvar. One of his most poignant and impactful pieces, “Pain and Glory” from 2019, delved into the complexities of aging and the struggles of an artist in crisis. His latest work, “The Room Next Door,” premiering at the Venice Film Festival, delves even deeper into the murky emotions surrounding death. Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton portray Ingrid and Martha, former friends who reconnected after a long absence when Ingrid learned that Martha was battling cancer. Their renewed friendship takes a complex turn.