Pedro Almodóvar’s highly anticipated first English-language feature film, The Room Next Door, will be showcased as the Centerpiece selection at the 62nd New York Film Festival. The film, based on Sigrid Nunez’s novel What Are You Going Through, will have its U.S. premiere at Alice Tully Hall on Oct. 4, marking a significant moment for the festival and Almodóvar.
The Room Next Door follows the story of two women, portrayed by Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, as they delve into their pasts and confront challenging decisions that test their bond. Moore plays Ingrid, a best-selling writer, while Swinton takes on the role of Martha, a war journalist. As the narrative unfolds, viewers witness a reimagining of Almodóvar’s exploration of women’s lives, set in the backdrop of Manhattan and upstate New York.
Almodóvar expressed his gratitude towards the New York Film Festival, referring to it as “my bridge to New York audiences for decades.” He shared his emotional experience of filming a scene at Alice Tully Hall, a place filled with cherished memories for him. The director’s connection to the venue reflects the sentimental value he places on his work and the festival’s role in his career.
Dennis Lim, NYFF’s Artistic Director, lauded The Room Next Door as a testament to Almodóvar’s artistic prowess, describing it as “a wise, exquisitely acted, achingly beautiful film that feels perfectly calibrated to this moment.” With a stellar cast including John Turturro, Alessandro Nivola, and Juan Diego Botto, the film promises to captivate audiences with its thematic depth and emotional resonance.
A fixture at the New York Film Festival, Almodóvar has been a mainstay with 15 selections since 1988. His diverse filmography showcases a range of cinematic gems, from Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown to Pain and Glory. The Room Next Door marks a new chapter in the director’s illustrious career, highlighting his ability to continually innovate and evolve as an artist.
Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door holds significant promise as it prepares to premiere at the New York Film Festival. With its compelling narrative, powerhouse performances, and the director’s signature style, the film is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for its debut at the festival and the subsequent release to experience the magic of Almodóvar’s latest cinematic masterpiece.