Based on the true story of a diving accident off the coast of Scotland in 2012, “Last Breath,” directed by Alex Parkinson, is an incredible, thrilling story that depicts the importance of keeping a level head in times of crisis.
On what was supposed to be a simple job to remove and replace a pipeline, everything that could possibly go wrong, does. Engine malfunctions, technology failures and constant swells that plague the North Sea leave a diver stranded at the bottom of the ocean with no oxygen.
The crew is then in a race against time to save their lost shipmate amidst the raging elements.
Rotating points of view between the dive team below the waves, the ship crew above and the team’s underwater rover create a dynamic and engaging story. The film also included 2012 footage of the original accident as a storytelling element.
While the crew above the waves does their best to navigate and control the ship in the rough seas, the crew below frantically tries to find their lost friend, who is 330 feet below sea level.
It becomes less clear as the movie progresses if this is a live rescue or a body recovery. The audience is left guessing until the very end, with scenes that tug at viewers’ heartstrings and leave them on the edge of their seats. This movie also includes amusing one liners that offer some comedic relief.
The captivating story, inspired by a real accident, leaves the audience holding their breath along with the actors on screen. Standout performances included Simu Liu (David Yuasa), Woody Harrelson (Duncan Allock) and Finn Cole (Chris Lemons). Their portrayals of the members on the team are heartbreaking and raw.
As a viewer that can usually guess the plot of a thriller within the first 10 minutes, this story gave nothing away, leaving me guessing. Nothing could have prepared me for this dramatic retelling of a real-life heart-pounding story.
Unlike other popular thrillers, this story was painfully helpless and emotional, leaving the audience with the feeling that there was truly nothing the characters could have done to prevent the havoc that ensued.
Everyone involved in the rescue was doing all that they could from below despite their lacking resources, ability to contact their lost friend and technology, but nothing could bring hope to the situation. The stress-inducing story concluded with a raw, unpredictable ending that left viewers stunned.
“Last Breath” is highly recommended for adrenaline junkies and those who value unpredictable, heart-pounding stories. If you enjoy movies such as “The Reef,” “47 Meters Down” or “Open Water,” then you might also enjoy “Last Breath.”
Fans of deep sea thrillers will enjoy the realism and dynamic storytelling of “Last Breath,” and it has the potential to be a new fan favorite.
This article was edited by Alia Messina, Marina Zackiewicz and Abigail Turner. Copy editing done by Olivia Citarella and Emma Brown.
