Most of us try to show up for the people in our lives. We’re ready to meet up for a cup of coffee, dinner, or send friendly messages when needed. But in this film the answer of how far you would go for a friend is put to the test.

Spain’s legendary Pedro Almodóvar’s first full-length film in English highlights the artistry of Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore whose talents make this tale of old friends in crisis feel riveting and dynamic. And visually, Almodóvar continues to surprise and delight through his masterful use of color and composition.

Quiet yet moving, “The Room Next Door” is a heartfelt meditation on friendship, grief, and death. We don’t know when we’ll be called upon to support a friend through a crisis, but it is a gesture of love if we can be and choose to be there for them.

Roger Ebert.com; Monica Castillo

Spain and USA

English

One hour and 47 minutes