Movie Review “Breath”: A Love Never Before So Beautiful and Heart-Wrenching
“Breath” is not just a movie but a poignant love song, delving deeply into the beautiful and painful aspects of love and life. The story begins with Robin Cavendish and Diana Blacker, who meet at a gathering and fall for each other instantly. Their initial attraction quickly develops into a strong relationship, leading to a happy life in Kenya, where Robin works as a tea broker.
However, their happiness is short-lived. While Diana is pregnant, Robin contracts polio and is diagnosed with only a few months left to live. Everything seems to crumble, and Robin, unable to move from the neck down and reliant on a breathing machine, is on the brink of giving up. In these moments of despair, Diana’s fierce love and determination keep Robin from surrendering. She lifts his spirits, helping him find a reason to live not just for himself but for her, their son Jonathan, and those around them.
“Breath” tells the story of a love that is both unfortunate and bittersweet, but it is far from being pessimistic or melodramatic. Throughout the film, viewers are met with one surprise after another, leading some to exclaim, “How can this be?” Even in the direst circumstances, the characters maintain a positive and composed demeanor, as if nothing grave were happening. For them, being together, living, and loving is enough hope. Robin not only holds on to hope for himself but also inspires others with similar fates around the world.
The film not only celebrates the power of romantic love but also highlights the importance of family, friendship, and humanity. Robin and Diana could not have overcome their challenges without the support of loved ones, friends, doctors, nurses, and even local people. Their love extends to a broader appreciation of life itself. Robin chooses to live fully, despite the risk of imminent death, rather than exist as a prisoner in a hospital, deemed useless by society.
The story and script of “Breath” provide a compelling emotional experience, and this would not have been achieved without the talented cast. Andrew Garfield, acclaimed for his role in “Hacksaw Ridge,” delivers an outstanding performance as Robin Cavendish. He conveys a wide range of emotions from happiness to pain through his expressions and dialogue alone. Claire Foy, as Diana, also delivers a remarkable performance, showcasing the beauty and strength of her character. Together, they present a moving portrayal of love and resilience.
One particularly striking and poignant scene occurs at the end when Robin is nearing the end of his life. There is no sentimentality or melodrama, just a simple exchange of gratitude between the two, thanking each other for their presence in each other’s lives and for the love they shared. Viewers with a tender heart will find it difficult to hold back tears, but these are tears of admiration and respect for a beautiful love and extraordinary people.
Although “Breath” is the directorial debut of Andy Serkis and does have some minor flaws, such as the initial rapid pacing of Robin and Diana’s relationship and the not entirely convincing aging makeup, the compelling storyline, strong performances, and deep message make the film a worthwhile experience. With a runtime of 01h58’, it effectively tells a life story from youth to the end.
“Breath” is a sweet love story for those who are in love, and for those who are not, it will certainly make you yearn for love to understand if it is truly this powerful. The film is also a story of a person with remarkable willpower who made significant contributions to medicine and inspired others in similar situations worldwide. “Breath” will not only make you cherish your loved ones more but also foster a deeper appreciation for family, friends, and life itself.
