BootDigest Such a frustrating disappointment

Comwayon A Disappointing Continuation

BeSummers Funny, strange, confrontational and subversive, this is one of the most interesting experiences you'll have at the cinema this year.

Keeley Coleman The thing I enjoyed most about the film is the fact that it doesn't shy away from being a super-sized-cliche;

classicsoncall Ramon's flashback diving scene which caused his injury brought back a tense memory for this viewer. As a teenager, I dove head first into a shallow pool and smacked my chin on the concrete bottom. It was the first and only time I ever saw stars, which I can attest is a very real thing. It was also very scary, because at that moment, I realized I could have permanently injured myself or even died, as there was no one else around to save me if the event were of a more serious nature. It also taught me how fragile life can be, for in an instant, as in Ramon's case, one's entire humanity can be turned upside down or made even worse. I haven't thought about that incident in a long time, but the movie brought it all back in searing detail.No matter what side you fall on regarding assisted suicide, this movie will give you pause and food for thought. The arguments offered by opposing ideologies are thought provoking and compelling. My own view is that a rational person has the right to make such a momentous, though final decision. I stress the word rational in that comment. I never thought about the issue brought up by Ramon's courtroom attorney arguing his position, that of an unsuccessful person attempting to take their own life. That person is never brought up on charges, but if suicide is the equivalent to murder, why would that not be the case? But then, in finding one guilty, what would the penalty be? Can a person be executed for trying to kill himself? The whole idea sounds kind of ludicrous, but I wonder what would happen if the justice system ever attempted to hear such a case.In any event, this was a well written and provocative story with Javier Bardem giving an excellent portrayal of the bed ridden Ramon Sampedro. His personal and family relationships are handled with compassion and integrity, and I found it inspiring that even in his condition, Ramon managed to make two women fall in love with him. That the film was based on a true story makes it even more compelling, even life affirming in a strangely ironic way.

MattyGibbs The Sea Inside is the true story of a paraplegic who fights for the right to die. Despite the depressing subject matter this is an often uplifting story. There are plenty of comedic moments that stop seeming a gloomy tale at all. Javier Bardem is brilliant as the paraplegic Ramon. He doesn't play for pity and Ramon comes across as a likable and funny guy who happens to be left in a position he just cannot cope with. Although sympathetic to his character Bardem isn't afraid to also portray other sides to his character. This makes it more real and means the audience can identify with the character. The supporting cast are great and I especially liked the performance of Lola Duenas as the lonely woman looking to befriend him. The ending is handled well and very emotional so get the hankies ready. I rarely watch films again within a year of watching them the first time but I couldn't help watch it again a couple of months later. For those that don't mind subtitles and enjoy some quality emotional drama this is a real treat.

g-bodyl As The Sea Inside indicates, the right to die with dignity is a very controversial issue not only in Spain, where the setting of this film is, but all over the world including countries like the United States. With that in mind, this film packed an emotional wallop as we learn the story about this man who wanted to die, despite being in relatively good health. This is a well-acted melodrama that is very hard to watch and even the strongest person may have a tear or two in his eye.Alejandro Amenabar's film is about a quadriplegic named Ramon Sampredo who fought for 28 years for the right to die after suffering a horrific injury in a diving accident. Ramon must face an uphill battle as he deals with the protests from the court of Spain as well as his family members.Javier Bardem delivers one of his best performances here as Ramon. Despite all what he is going through, he remains a cheery guy who smiles often. But once we hear the pain he is in and how he has enough of being in bed and unable to live life anymore, we can see this pain resonates. Javier Bardem does an excellent job on capturing the emotion and the reality of the suffering these kind of people face. Meanwhile, the two women who he becomes attached to did a great job. Belen Rueda as Julia and Lola Duenas as Rosa.Overall, The Sea Inside is a tough film to watch because of the subject matter but nonetheless, it is still a very good film that is very well made. Not only is the acting tremendous, but things that stand out are the makeup and the screenplay. This film has a very strong script and the makeup does a good job in transforming Javier Bardem into the man who wanted to die. Such a powerful film. I rate this film 9/10.

ntebyanian I've been a fan of Javier Bardem ever since No Country For Old Men came out back in 2007. His presence on screen was something extraordinary and i could tell the guy knew how to act. Sea Inside is definitely a film were his talent shines. The character he plays as is a paraplegic. After an unfortunate accident, he's left paralyzed from the neck down. After so many years he decides that he's had enough and wants to attempt suicide. As he tries to find the right person to help him, we get to meet so many great characters played by many great actors/actresses. From his family to his friends, you get this emotional bond between everyone and it really makes for a real powerhouse. You will believe Bardem is paralyzed, it's so effective. He makes it seem so realistic from beginning to end. This film has a very deep and dark meaning that anyone could feel for. It'll make you cry, it'll make you laugh and it will leave you in silence. If your a fan of Javier Bardem, or your a fan of a good and solid piece of art, do your self a favor and see this movie.