‘The Deepest Breath’ Review – Aquatic Ambition Meets An Unforgettable Sacrifice

Logline: The story of a champion freediver and expert safety diver, whose lives seemed fated to converge at the height of their careers. A look at the thrilling rewards — and inescapable risks — of chasing dreams through the depths of the ocean.

Whether or not you believe in “the one” or “soulmates“, when you find someone that you truly connect with, it seems almost unbelievable. To find someone who enjoys your brand of weird, your sense of humor, your outlook on life, and whom you can spend countless hours with and never get bored with is truly special. There are more than likely multiple people out there for each of us, but if the timing isn’t right, you could end up alone. So, if you do find yourself in the presence of one, take your chance and shoot your shot because windows of opportunity don’t stay open for long. Even if your time together is short, it’s time worth having.

“I’m not afraid of death.”

Over 300 feet below the ocean’s surface you’ll find fish, an outer space-like atmosphere, and humans daring to do what most won’t. Directed by Laura McGann, The Deepest Breath is where aquatic ambition meets an unforgettable sacrifice. Beginning ominously with words that foreshadow what is to come, you quickly realize that isn’t your typical sports documentary. Its cinematic tone immediately sets this doc apart from others of the sort. It doesn’t feel like people merrily recalling a series of events or relaying information, instead it feels like one cohesive tale with multiple narrators.

Told from two intertwining points of view, this truly harrowing story ignites waves of emotions as it details the life and love of two individuals who were born to be in the water. From the determination and excitement of chasing and setting records to the selfless and life-saving efforts, coaching, and a wanderlust spirit, you’ll be gripped by intrigue and stunned by the world of freediving. However, the film doesn’t quite dive deep enough into this extreme sport to set it atop the genre. More than anything, this is framed around the pure passion and enjoyment that freediver Alessia Zecchini and safety diver Stephen Keenan have for arguably the most dangerous sport in the world. Initially strangers on a seemingly unavoidable collision course, the way in which they connect at just the right moment when they are both in need of that missing piece is fairytale-like. Until it isn’t. If you’re expecting a psychological splash into the psyche of those who free-dive, the whys and how come, this doc isn’t what you’re looking for.

“Enjoy yourself to the max.”

This is very much a character-driven story. However, not character in the sense of a role in a film, but in the sense that the qualities that make a persistent unwavering record-breaker and a highly-skilled and benevolent lifesaver are why we are witnessing this story. With one committed to being the best there has ever been and one searching to be part of something bigger than themselves, the pairing seems almost unlikely. Comprised of archive and raw underwater dive footage, this family and friends-narrated journey is tense, beautiful, and full of love. Taking place in various countries with various languages, breathtaking underwater visuals, and a heart-pounding score as well as silence, The Deepest Breath will have you holding yours.

While I wanted to learn more about a sport that I knew zero about, having it be the vehicle for the story we got was fascinating. Perhaps the most captivating yet chilling aspect of this deep sea documentary is how recent these events are. This is definitely worth watching. I originally watched this at 1 in the morning and couldn’t look away. Its rewatchability is medium-high.

Pacing & Pop

The pacing of this 100-meter-deep documentary is as somber and alluring as its tone. Beginning with somewhat of a swift and upbeat tempo, it quickly takes a sharply personal turn. What popped for me were the parts of the doc that solely focused on free diving. It’s not only something that is completely impressive and foreign to me but the mindset of someone wanting to participate in the sport is fascinating.

Impact & Influence

It’s not often that we witness a documentary where one of its subjects has yet to meet their peak. In an era where we are finally giving flowers to those who have made an impact sooner rather than later, this is a beautiful trend that we should continue. Not only does it set a precedent for future filmmakers but hopefully it will spill over into everyday life. At times, it’s hard to fathom how someone could do what Stephen Keenan did as a profession knowing very well what the outcome could be at any moment. But that is what makes this story such a special thing to behold. He may not have been a superhero, but he was a super hero.

The Deepest Breath is now streaming exclusively on Netflix. Remain safe and defy the odds.

Rated: PG

Runtime: 1h 48m

Director: Laura McGann

Producers: John Battsek, Sarah Thomson, Jamie D’Alton, Anne McLoughlin

Executive Producers: Bart Layton, Ben Cotner, Emily Osborne, Adriana Banta

Co-Producer: Robert Ford

Director Of Photography: Tim Cragg Editor: Julian Hart

Composer: Nainita Desai