In a captivating new narrative film, *Last Breath* takes viewers deep beneath the ocean’s surface, following a harrowing true story that explores the perilous world of saturation diving. The film showcases the intense journey of diver Chris Lemons, portrayed by Finn Cole, who finds himself trapped 330 feet underwater after his umbilical cord is severed. With limited oxygen and no light, the film captures the desperate efforts to save him before time runs out.
Director Alex Parkinson, who previously documented this chilling tale, transforms his 2019 documentary into a cinematic thriller that effectively immerses audiences in the underwater suspense, despite some narrative shortcomings. The film portrays saturation diving as one of the most treacherous professions, likening it to the grim realities faced by astronauts in space. Just as in films like *Apollo 13*, where survival hinges on timely rescue, the characters in *Last Breath* are also racing against the clock, adding to the tension of the unfolding drama.
The film opens with Chris in a romantic relationship with Morag, played by Bobby Rainsbury. While the characterization of Chris is somewhat limited, it establishes his vulnerability and the stakes of his profession. The ensemble cast, featuring Woody Harrelson as the soon-to-retire Duncan Allcock and Simu Liu as the focused David Yuasa, augments the storyline, though some character developments fall short of their potential.
The screenplay shows glimpses of a more profound drama that could have elevated the film’s emotional impact. However, once the crisis unfolds, including the suspenseful moment when Chris’s umbilical cord snaps, the film transforms into a heart-pounding experience, complete with a ticking timer that highlights the urgency of the situation.
Scenes set in the control room, where a team works to rescue Chris, are particularly compelling, enhanced by the performances of talented actors like Cliff Curtis and Mark Bonnar. Nevertheless, the absence of Harrelson and Liu for significant stretches detracts from the dynamic, especially when their characters possess the potential for more engaging arcs. Although Harrelson delivers a memorable performance, the emotional weight could have been amplified through more personal connections to the narrative.
Simu Liu’s character, initially portrayed as curt, becomes crucial in the struggle to save Chris. However, the lack of deeper emotional layers limits the overall impact of their interactions, making the resolution feel less significant than it could have been.
Despite its drawbacks, *Last Breath* succeeds in creating a gripping and intense atmosphere that keeps audiences engaged. The stakes, though personal rather than global, resonate deeply as the film chronicles an extraordinary tale of human resilience and survival.
SCORE: 6/10
This score reflects a “Decent” rating, indicating that while *Last Breath* captivates with its thrilling premise, it ultimately falls short of achieving its full potential as a cinematic experience.
