When theatre actor Julián (Ricardo Darín) receives an unexpected visit from his childhood friend Tomás (Javier Cámara), the encounter is bittersweet. This reunion is their first meeting in many years, triggered by Julián’s diagnosis with a serious illness. Tomás is baffled by his friend’s decision to forgo continued treatment and instead focus on putting his affairs in order: distributing possessions, reconciling past disputes, and, most importantly, finding a home for his beloved Staffordshire terrier, Truman. It’s this task that is causing Julián the greatest concern.
Over four days, as the two men walk the streets of Madrid visiting bookshops, restaurants, doctors, and veterinarians, they examine their lives, speculating on what the future holds.
In this jewel of a film, Cámara and Darín convincingly depict the ease and rapport that only a life-long connection allows. With characteristic sensitivity, director Cesc Gay finds great dignity and humour in ordinary lives, delivering a funny, moving and hugely entertaining reflection on male relationships. This is a reminder that the best friendships are, indeed, forever.