The Deepest Breath highlights two prominent freediving stars, covering their rises and the dangers they encounter. It touches on the relationships, competitive nature, wonder lust, and mental strength of these extreme athletes. However, none of these topics are fully unpacked. This risky lifestyle undoubtedly comes with social-emotional challenges, but the film spends more time on the objective chase of world records. Its journey is captivating, yet feels like a slightly missed opportunity. Meanwhile, the candid interviews provide deep vulnerability and a range of personalities. Overall, The Deepest Breath might not be as insightful as possible, but it's still a dramatic ride.
Technically, The Deepest Breath is efficient with moments of awe. Its cinematography offers some picturesque ocean and underwater imagery. The editing adds montages, archive footage, timing, cross cuts, pacing, tension, and long takes. Its sound uses split cuts, heartbeats, water, ringing, silence, and narration. The synth music creates grand atmospheres and emotional crescendos. Its production design reinforces the globe-trotting narrative. The interview cast has plenty of people close to the story. Finally, the stunts captured on camera are some of the most extortionary feats a human can achieve. Ultimately, The Deepest Breath is a quality documentary with exceptional thrills.
Writing: 8/10
Direction: 8/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 7.8/10
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