English summary

Truman tells the story of best friends Julián (Ricardo Darín) and Tomás (Javier Cámara), who must say their final goodbyes. The title character is a dog belonging to Julián, an Argentinian living in Madrid. The thread of the pet’s fate is woven through the story. This Spanish film has both subtly comical and melancholy aspects.

Chemotherapy has failed to stop Julián’s cancer from spreading, so he’s chosen to live out his last months without hospitals or further treatment, a choice Tomás reluctantly respects. Instead of arguing about it, Tomás elects to pay often silent witness as Julián slowly takes leave of those dearest to him – his son, friends and colleagues, and most importantly in a way, his elderly dog Truman, a soulful bullmastiff whom he’s determined to see rehomed before he dies. They spend four unforgettable days together and visit various cities, including Amsterdam, where Julián’s son attends university.

This film portrays beautifully the extraordinary dynamic that can characterise a close friendship, especially one that must come to an end. And even though this is a real actors’ film with grandly performed roles, the dog actually steals the show. Truman was awarded five Goyas (Spanish Oscars), including those for Best Film and Best Director.