What to Watch This Weekend – Last Breath

Last Breath is the true story of a daring and dangerous rescue operation. Being a saturation diver is one of the most perilous occupations in the world. These brave individuals succumb to the harsh and unforgiving environment deep on Earth’s ocean floor. In these conditions, divers have immense physical pressure on their bodies while operating in complete darkness. For one mission, Chris Lemons (Finn Cole), Duncan Allcock (Woody Harrelson), and David Yuasa (Simi Liu) must work together to repair a damaged gas line. Unfortunately, the dive happens just as a massive storm batters the ship on the surface. Suddenly, one of the divers gets separated from the crew.  They find themselves stranded on the seabed, alone with dwindling oxygen. In response, the crew and remaining divers concoct a plan to find and save their crewmate.

What works in Last Breath is the intensity and the humanity. Director Alex Parkinson (who previously helmed the documentary version of these events) wisely chooses to focus on people as the heart of the story. Parkinson tacitly acknowledges the reality of the situation is objectively terrifying without any need for embellished drama. As such, Parkinson allows time for the performers, particularly Harrelson, to give their real-life counterparts depth and emotional heft. The relatability to the divers in particular helps drive audience engagement and attachment. Furthermore, Parkinson makes excellent use of darkness and silence to help simulate the terror. The combination of these elements makes for an overall gripping experience.

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People who suffer from claustrophobia or water-related fears may find Last Breath distressing. This is primarily due to the realistic approach Parkinson takes in conveying the facts. Out of respect for those involved, the proceedings are as accurate as possible. There is very little suspension of disbelief. As such, people who become disturbed by portrayals of emergencies and accidents may be triggered by Last Breath. Finally, and perhaps obviously, those who are already familiar with the story and/or the aforementioned documentary may not find this slightly dramatized/stylized version compelling.

Last Breath is a powerful retelling of true events. It serves as proof that the cinematic medium, when leveraged correctly and appropriately, can serve as a vessel that allows stories to reach wide audiences. While it may not break any new ground, its showcase of immense talent gives it more than enough reason to justify its existence. Recommended.   

Recommended if you enjoyed: Men of Honor, The Rescue, The Cave

Last Breath is now available to watch on most digital streaming platforms.

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