The Sea Inside (2004)

Save your money for something good and enjoyable

Good movie but grossly overrated

It's hard to see any effort in the film. There's no comedy to speak of, no real drama and, worst of all.

True to its essence, the characters remain on the same line and manage to entertain the viewer, each highlighting their own distinctive qualities or touches.

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.

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.

A very interesting topic is not served well in this overwrought dull drama. I love films that question morality and humanity. However, I don't want a bunch of people arriving and just discussion their feelings/emotions. If that's the case, a documentary would have been much more fitting. Bardem's performance is a thing of beauty, and the main recipient of the the 2 and a half stars I give it. Obviously, due to his condition, he isn't going to get out and about. In saying that, the most memorable moments are those out of the bedroom. The accident, the imaginary flying, the courtroom scenes etc. In one way it emphasized his desire to die, and how his life was kept in this one room, but it didn't make an interesting film.