Imagine never being to turn the pages of a book your reading, or never being able to reach out and hold someone’s hand. Imagine never being able to dance to the tunes of your favorite song. Imagine never being able to take a stroll by the beach. Imagine never being able to run your fingers through a loved one’s hair. Imagine never being able to feed yourself, or pick out your favorite outfit. Imagine never having a private moment by yourself to do what you want. Imagine being confined to a bed, dependent on someone for every need, and every move. Would you want to live? This is the story of The Sea Inside.
Based on the life of Ramón Sampedro, this film by Alejandro Amenábar is funny, sensitive, touching, and truly inspirational. The film focuses on Ramón’s 28-yr-old struggle to end his existence as a quadriplegic. The theme is familiar (remember Terri Schaivo?) and debatable, and it makes you ponder over whether it is okay to let one live in a vegetative state, even if he/she didn’t want it.
’’There is no dignity in this life’’, Ramón appealed to the Judicial system. But the law didn’t support euthanesia, and the Church represented by a priest (who was also a quadriplegic) wasn’t very sympathetic. Undeterred, Ramón continues with his struggle, gathering support alongside. However. the film doesn’t merely debate this theme of euthanesia. It also focuses on Ramón, and his relationships with the people around him.
Gené and Marc are activists who support his cause, and Manuela Sampedro is the sister-in-law who takes care of him. Rosa, a single mother with numerous problems, makes futile attempts at enticing him with life. Then there is Julia, the one person who empathizes with Ramón the most .
This bond with Julia is perhaps the most powerful, because this lawyer who is helping Ramón write his book, suffers from a degenerative, crippling disease. Caught in their physical restrictions, the two brave souls with free spirits add a dash of romance to what could have been a bleak and sorry existence.
With his own limitations on how to shoot the film Alejandro Amenábar’s work is commendable. Shot in Galicia, the beauty of the awe-inspiring locales exude a certain freedom; one that Ramón lacks completely. Javier Bardem’s portrayal as Ramón is brilliant.
Truly a well-deserved Oscar winner.