Amenábar follows the commercial success of THE OTHERS with a return to Spanish-language filmmaking that has won its young director a slew of prizes, from the Venice Film Festival to the European Film Awards, with Bardem’s name bandied about as serious Oscar bait. The film attracting all the attention is a beautifully shot weepie – with a timely, controversial edge. Based on the actual experiences of Galician quadriplegic Ramón Sampedro, it traces his 30-year battle for the legal right to assisted suicide. Bardem is brilliant as the witty, disillusioned yet unbowed spirit who feels trapped by his life, occasionally freeing himself through dreaming and writing. He is surrounded by family, friends, and fellow campaigners – some who disagree, others that agree with his wishes. Mon 21 Feb, 5.00pm: One Hour Intro: Alejandro Amenábar Roy Stafford provides an introductory level talk to the director who brought us THESIS, OPEN YOUR EYES and THE OTHERS. Tickets: £2.50 full / £2.00 concs (includes £1 off any screening of THE SEA INSIDE)
The Sea Inside
Directed by Alejandro Amenábar