The Sea Inside (2004)

The factual story of Spaniard Ramon Sampedro (Javier Bardem), who fought a thirty-year campaign in favor of euthanasia and his own right to die. The film explores Ramón's relationships with two women: Julia, a lawyer suffering from Cadasil syndrome, who supports his cause, and Rosa, a local woman who wants to convince him that life is worth living.The film is directed by Alejandro Amenábar, who had previously made "Open Your Eyes" and "The Others". This is clearly the most critically acclaimed of the three, but there is no denying that he was consistently releasing great films."The Sea Inside" won the 2004 Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, the 2004 Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, and 14 Goya Awards. Well deserved, and further pushing Javier Bardem into the role of international star.

Javier Bardem may just be one of the finest actors of his generation, and his role as a paraplegic fighting for the right to die added another impressive notch to his already eclectic body of work.El Mar Adentro has its share of beautiful moments, and it treated its core issue with sensitivity and intelligence (for the most part). The philosophical aspect of it was insightful, but perhaps underutilized.The direction, acting, and production values were all impressive. I was prepared to give this 8 or 9 stars, along with the dubious ranking of perhaps one of the finest Spanish dramas ever filmed.Unfortunately, the movie ends up shooting itself in the foot by proving to be a little over- directed. What killed it for me was the abundance of irritating montages that killed the flow, and made it seem like the director just wanted to quicken the pace in an easy fashion. Whenever the passage of time was shown with annoying fade in/outs and the maudlin music cut in heavy handedly, it caused me to zone out. It was like watching a hallmark channel version of a paralyzed Rocky Balboa.Other criticisms were the focus of the film. There was the protagonist of Ramon, there was the love triangle between Rosa, Julia, and he. There was the legal angle, Ramon's family, and the moral outrage expressed by characters like the priest. It felt meandering, and what felt like a build up to the court room scene was over in 3 minutes. There was too much attention paid to other characters who, frankly, didn't interest me as much as Ramon. I wish I could have gotten to know him a little better. And did I mention the music was intrusive? But as much as there were parts I resented, there was a lot to admire. One of the most gorgeous scenes was the depiction of Ramon's accident. Amenebar showed that their can be grace in even the most horrid and fateful of moments. Other highlights were Ramon's ability to escape his prison and visit the sea inside, where he visits his fantasies of the women he leaves behind. I only wish the man's imagination had been explored a lot more.Still, a worthwhile watch. 7/10.

You know, I usually try my best to feel any interest for the movie I'm watching. However, "Mar adentro" simply couldn't keep me entertained for more than an hour; first, I feel it's too monotone, it's just Ramon talking about random stuff all the time. Second, there isn't a single likable character for you to be connected with. I agree that the subject is interesting and provocative, but this film is, sadly, bad executed. I don't know if it's director's fault, but it seems to be that the writer is the guilty one. I must admit I left this movie before it reached one hour, since I couldn't feel any interest to what could happen next-- and that's a rare thing that I do. So, in conclusion and in my point of view, "Mar Adentro" is a badly executed movie with a good subject, that's why I dislike it. Please don't hate on me.

the definition of the great movie for me is the one that doesn't have the absolute "right" or "wrong" side, it should be the one that stick in that gray area. The movie that makes you think or question about life itself..For me, this kind of movie experience is profoundly rewarding, a question about the choice you make in your life, a question about your life existence, a question about the life itself.this is my first Javier bardem's movie and i'm sure it wont be the last, he gives such an electrifying, believable, enthralling performance as the real life ramon, yup it's a true life story about the person who want to die with a dignity, Life is indeed about a choice.