Julianne Moore Reflects On Mortality And Friendship In Almodóvar's "The Room Next Door"

Julianne Moore, one of the most versatile and compelling actors of her generation, is about to grace the screen again in Pedro Almodóvar’s latest film, The Room Next Door. As the star of this lush exploration of mortality, Moore opens up about her own experiences with life, death, and everything in between.

Despite her worldwide fame and stunning red hair that has made her instantly recognizable, Moore often goes unnoticed, seamlessly blending in with everyday life. On a recent subway ride, she listened to two women discuss their friendship, reminding her of how ordinary lives often go unnoticed by filmmakers.

Yet these everyday interactions fascinate Moore and deeply influence her craft.

Throughout her 40-year career, Moore has portrayed a range of characters, from defiant heroines to women trapped in domestic horror. She has won critical acclaim, most notably an Oscar for her role in Still Alice. Yet, in real life, she is drawn to the simple, complex beauty of ordinary experiences.

In a world obsessed with fantasy, she finds richness in the lives of everyday people—those who, like the women on the subway, live fascinating, though often overlooked, lives. It is this deep curiosity about human nature that continues to drive Moore’s career, and it’s also a theme that permeates The Room Next Door, her latest film about life’s most profound moments.

In The Room Next Door, Moore portrays Ingrid, a woman reunited with her friend Martha, played by Tilda Swinton, in a hospital room.

Set against the backdrop of a Manhattan cityscape dusted with pink snow, Martha is planning her final days, renting a house to take a euthanasia pill and asking Ingrid to accompany her during her last moments.

Luca Dammicco

The film is an exploration of friendship, mortality, and beauty—a quintessential Almodóvar film with its vibrant visual storytelling.

As Moore explains, “There is this elevated visual sense. Women look beautiful, the world looks beautiful. Even death looks beautiful.” The film, like life, is a celebration of both beauty and tragedy, capturing the essence of existence through the lens of friendship and loss.

Stefania D’Alessandro

Moore’s deep connection to the film goes beyond its aesthetics.

She reflects on the complexity of living with the awareness of mortality, something she says we should be conscious of every day. “I need to be alive to the idea of mortality all the time,” she confesses.

David Roemer/Trunk Archive

The Intersection of Mortality and Art

Julianne Moore's reflections on mortality resonate deeply with the insights of Dr. Irvin D. Yalom, a renowned psychiatrist and author. He emphasizes that confronting death can lead to a more authentic life experience. In his book, Staring at the Sun, Yalom asserts that acknowledging our mortality can motivate us to cherish relationships and pursue our passions more fervently.

He notes, 'The fear of death is a universal experience, but embracing it can enrich our lives.' This perspective aligns with Moore’s exploration of friendship and life's fleeting moments in her latest role.

Experts in psychology highlight the profound impact of friendship on mental health during periods of existential reflection. Dr. Kelly McGonigal, a health psychologist, points out that social connections bolster resilience against anxiety surrounding mortality.

She suggests that engaging in activities with friends, such as sharing experiences or discussing fears, can foster a sense of belonging and emotional security. Implementing regular meet-ups or creating support groups can be practical ways to maintain these vital connections, ultimately leading to a more meaningful exploration of life's complexities.

Working on this film, away from her husband, Bart Freundlich, and their two adult children, was emotionally heavy yet also freeing for her.

Moore found solace in the process, reminding herself that life, even in the face of death, is filled with joy, connection, and beauty.

Album/Alamy

The emotional depth and weight of the film are mirrored in her reflections on life, offering a glimpse into how she processes both her career and personal experiences.

Landmark Media/Alamy

Moore’s work on The Room Next Door serves as a reminder of her exceptional ability to explore the richness of everyday life. From her humble beginnings to her Oscar-winning career, she continues to bring humanity and empathy to her roles, making each one relatable, even in their most extraordinary circumstances.

For Moore, life isn’t about grand gestures or fantasies, but rather the deep connections and complexities of real human experiences. It’s why she continues to be one of Hollywood’s most enduring and beloved stars, capturing the hearts of audiences with her graceful portrayal of life’s most profound truths.

Research-Based Understanding

Julianne Moore's candid insights in The Room Next Door remind us of the importance of engaging with our mortality and the bonds we share with others. As Dr. Irvin D. Yalom suggests, embracing the reality of death can lead to a more vibrant appreciation for life. Creating lasting friendships and meaningful connections can serve as a powerful antidote to existential anxieties.

Ultimately, investing time in nurturing these relationships not only enhances our emotional well-being but also allows us to navigate the complexities of life with greater ease and joy.