LAST BREATH – “Frequently gripping, though largely mechanical”

LastBreath_FP_00018_C 
Simu Liu stars as Dave Yuasa in LAST BREATH, a Focus Features release.
Credit: Courtesy of Focus Features / © 2024 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

RATING

DIRECTOR

Directed by: Alex Parkinson

MAIN CAST

Woody Harrelson as Duncan Allcock
Simu Liu as David Yuasa
Finn Cole as Chris Lemons

SYNOPSIS

It is a feature film remake of the 2019 documentary of the same name.

The true story of seasoned deep-sea divers who battle the raging elements to rescue a crew mate who's trapped hundreds of feet below the ocean's surface.

REVIEW SUMMARY

Alex Parkinson’s Last Breath is frequently gripping, though largely mechanical in its storytelling. That said, it still delivers some solid thrills. In fact, the film boasts plenty of white-knuckle moments filled with tension and suspense. Trust me, there’s quite the rollercoaster ride of uncertainty. And, technically, it’s an impressive achievement - offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of these deep-sea divers and the perilous maintenance work they undertake at the ocean’s depths. In fact, the film meticulously details their procedures, providing a wonderfully authentic look at this rarely explored profession. The cinematography and camera work heighten the experience, evoking a real sense of claustrophobia as the characters navigate the deep. Without venturing into spoiler territory, just know that the “resolution” is nothing short of extraordinary—miraculous, even. The fact that it’s based on a true story makes it all the more astonishing. However, where the film stumbles is in its emotional depth. The dialogue can feel somewhat “functional.” The relationships are painted in broad strokes – adequate, but not overly compelling. While the cast performs capably, their portrayals don’t transcend the material. Still, as the title suggests, Last Breath will surely leave you breathless at times—and that alone makes it worth the dive.

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