Room in Rome

Room in Rome (Spanish: Habitación en Roma) is a 2010 Spanish film that explores the intimate and emotional dynamics between two women over the course of a single night in a hotel room in Rome. Directed by Julio Medem, the film stars Elena Anaya and Natasha Yarovenko. This romantic comedy-drama is loosely inspired by another film, In Bed, and marks Medem's first venture into English-language cinema.

The story unfolds during the first day of summer in June. Alba, a 30-year-old Spanish tourist, meets a younger Russian woman, Natasha, on the last night of their vacations. Their initial encounter is shrouded in mystery, as the details of how they met are not made clear. Once in the hotel room, Natasha expresses discomfort, claiming to be straight. However, the more confident Alba eventually breaks through Natasha's hesitation, leading to a complex exploration of their attraction.

As the night progresses, both women share their stories and vulnerabilities. Initially, they stay side by side in bed, where Alba quickly falls asleep, leaving Natasha to contemplate what could have been. Natasha's hurried departure leads to her forgetting her phone, prompting her return. With Alba's encouragement, she ultimately succumbs to their mutual attraction. The two women engage in a night of passion, growing closer as they share their backgrounds and personal histories.

The film delves into their pasts, with Alba disclosing her challenging childhood experiences, including abandonment and her life with a wealthy Arab man. Natasha, on the other hand, reveals her true identity as Dasha, a professional tennis player from a privileged background, who is engaged to be married in Russia. This moment of honesty adds depth to their relationship as they confront their true selves.

As dawn approaches, Alba and Natasha share breakfast, served by a waiter named Max, and discuss their future. They ponder the possibility of abandoning their lives and partners for a new beginning together, yet both realize the impossibility of such a move. Alba expresses her growing feelings for Natasha, while Natasha remains defensive, viewing her attraction as mere curiosity rather than love.

Ultimately, the women decide to part ways, agreeing to keep their passionate night a secret. The film concludes with a poignant moment as Natasha calls out to Alba, symbolizing the emotional impact their encounter had on both of them.

Main Cast:

• Elena Anaya as Alba
• Natasha Yarovenko as Natasha
• Enrico Lo Verso as Max
• Najwa Nimri as Edurne

Production Notes: The film was produced by Morena Films and Alicia Produce, with the participation of TVE and Canal+. It was filmed in both Rome and Madrid, primarily on a sound stage that mimicked a hotel room. The Málaga Film Festival served as the venue for the world premiere of Room in Rome on 24 April 2010, followed by its theatrical release in Spain on 7 May 2010.

Critics have noted the film as a bold exploration of love and desire, though some feel that director Medem may prioritize thematic ideas over character development. The film has sparked discussions about its portrayal of LGBTQ relationships and the complexities of attraction.