The Sea Inside (I) (2004)

Belén Rueda: Julia

Photos 

Quotes 

• Julia : Why choose death?

  Ramón Sampedro : Well, I want to die because I feel that a life for me, in this state has no dignity. I understand that other quadriplegics may take offense to my saying there's no dignity in this, but I'm not trying to judge anyone. Who am I to judge those who choose life? So don't judge me or anyone who wants to help me die.

  Julia : You think someone will help?

  Ramón Sampedro : Well, that depends on the powers that be. They'll have to overcome their fear. But hey, it's really no big deal. Death has always been with us and always will be. It catches up with all of us. Everyone. It's part of us. So why are they shocked because I choose to die, as if it were contagious?

  Julia : If this goes to court, they'll ask why you haven't explored all alternatives. Why refuse a wheelchair?

  Ramón Sampedro : Accepting a wheelchair would be like accepting the scraps of the freedom I lost. Think about this: You're sitting there, three feet away. What's three feet? An insignificant distance for any human being. But for me, those three feet that keep me from reaching you, from touching you, are an impossible journey. Just an illusion. A fantasy. That's why I want to die.

• Julia : Too bad there's no view of the sea.

  Ramón Sampedro : Just as well. This way I see it when I choose.

  Julia : What do you mean?

  Ramón Sampedro : When I'm in the mood, I concentrate and walk I out to the sea. I fly there.

• Julia : Ramón, why to die?