The Room Next Door

Ingrid learns that her former coworker and friend, Martha, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. This news prompts Ingrid to reconnect with Martha, knowing their time together is limited.

Ingrid visits Martha in the hospital, where they share heartfelt moments and catch up on their lives. During their visit, Martha opens up about her experiences and life story, revealing the challenges she has faced over the years.

Martha recounts her relationship with Fred, a young man from her college days who went off to Vietnam. Their romance led to an unexpected pregnancy, which ultimately changed the course of Martha's life after Fred returned with PTSD.

After returning from the war, Fred struggles with mental health issues and ultimately leaves Martha, remarrying without looking back. This abandonment leaves Martha alone to raise their daughter, Michelle, who grows up yearning to know about her father.

Desiring to appease her daughter’s curiosity, Martha attempts to reach out to Fred's new wife. She learns that Fred has died in a suspicious manner while trying to save someone who was never there, a haunting detail that further complicates her relationship with Michelle.

As Michelle grows up, she becomes resentful of Martha for not keeping Fred in her life. This resentment leads to an estrangement between mother and daughter, emphasizing Martha's loneliness and isolation over the years.

Now facing her terminal illness, Martha reveals her decision to Ingrid about purchasing euthanasia pills. She expresses her wish to control her own end, leading Ingrid to a moral crossroads about her friend’s choices.

Initially hesitant about Martha's plan, Ingrid ultimately accepts her friend's wishes. She decides to stay with Martha during her last moments, showcasing the depth of their friendship.

Martha tests Ingrid's readiness for her passing by pretending to die when she closes her bedroom door. This event, meant to prepare Ingrid for loss, creates initial anger but ultimately serves to deepen their bond.

Ingrid discovers Martha's lifeless body on the lawn chair outside, the closed door signaling that her friend has finally passed. This tragic moment culminates in her discovering a note from Martha asking her to reach out to Michelle.

Ingrid informs the authorities about Martha's suicide. As they question her, they disclose that Martha had spoken to another friend about her plans, intensifying Ingrid’s feelings of betrayal and confusion regarding their friendship.

After the police leave, Ingrid seeks solace in a call to Damian, a fellow writer and former lover of both her and Martha. He helps her navigate the emotional fallout, suggesting she consult a lawyer regarding Martha's affairs.

Ingrid takes the initiative to find Martha's estranged daughter, Michelle. Drawing strength from her memories with Martha, she invites Michelle to come to the country home to confront their shared loss.

In a poignant moment, Ingrid and Michelle lie together on lawn chairs outside as it begins to snow. This moment of connection allows them to reflect on Martha's life and legacy, offering a fragile peace amidst their grief.