Pedro Almodóvar’s latest film, "The Room Next Door," received a record 17-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. The film, starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore, captivated the audience with its emotional story and powerful performances.
As the credits rolled, the crowd stood up, clapping and cheering for what seemed like an eternity. Almodóvar, dressed in a bright pink suit, was visibly moved by the response. He kissed the hands of Swinton and Moore as they all soaked in the applause. The ovation broke the festival’s record, surpassing the 12-minute applause for Brady Corbet’s "The Brutalist" and the 8-minute reception for Pablo Larraín’s "Maria," starring Angelina Jolie.
"The Room Next Door" is Almodóvar’s first English-language film. It tells the story of two estranged friends, Ingrid (Julianne Moore) and Martha (Tilda Swinton), who reconnect after many years. Their friendship, once tied to the world of magazine journalism, faces a tough test when Ingrid learns that Martha, now a war reporter, is fighting cancer in a New York hospital.
The film, set for a December release, explores themes of friendship, loss, and redemption. Almodóvar, known for his emotional storytelling, did not hide his joy, signing autographs and acknowledging the audience’s enthusiastic response.
This marks Almodóvar’s first appearance at the Venice Film Festival since 2021 when he presented "Parallel Mothers," which earned Penélope Cruz the Best Actress award. Almodóvar previously received a lifetime achievement award at Venice in 2019.
"The Room Next Door" is competing in the 81st Venice Film Festival, with winners to be announced on September 7. The film is expected to be a highlight of the festival season.
