The Deepest Breath, a visually captivating Netflix documentary directed by Laura McGann, takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into the enigmatic world of freediving. At the center of the film is Alessia Zecchini, a world champion freediver, whose unwavering passion for the sport drives her to explore breathtaking depths without fear of mortality. As she descends into the azure abyss, the audience is treated to awe-inspiring scenes that unfold in rhapsodic silence, conveying the sport's elemental and primal essence.
The film explores freediving's magnetic allure beyond mere competition, revealing its profound meditative and anti-adrenaline qualities. Unlike conventional extreme sports driven by adrenaline rushes, freediving demands an extraordinary level of calmness and mental clarity. McGann skillfully captures the serene focus of freedivers as they seek to achieve a state akin to Tibetan monk-like meditation, a harmony of body and mind.
One of the documentary's pivotal subjects is Stephen Keenan, the chief of safety during the 2017 Vertical Blue competition in the Bahamas. A lovable and experienced freediver, Keenan formed a life-altering bond with Zecchini. The duo's connection goes beyond that of coach and athlete; they seem like each other's missing piece. Keenan's expertise in safety and experience in the sport complement Zecchini's ambitious drive, leading to an exceptional partnership.
However, The Deepest Breath also delves into the risks associated with freediving. The sport's perilous nature is highlighted through scenes of divers experiencing blackouts, their hypoxic brains freezing until revived with precious oxygen. The film pays tribute to Keenan's courageous 2013 rescue of Alexey Molchanov, son of the legendary freediver Natalia Molchanova, who vanished while freediving in 2015. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the dangers inherent in the pursuit of freediving greatness.
McGann's storytelling style unfolds the narrative with sensitivity and curiosity while respecting the tragic events that follow Zecchini and Keenan's encounter. As the film progresses, it becomes evident that something went terribly wrong during their pursuit of freediving excellence. While some reviews question the suspenseful approach, the director justifies it as a way to celebrate Keenan's life in the present, rather than focusing solely on the tragedy of his death.
The documentary's visuals are simply breathtaking, showcasing the immense blue depths that beckon these extraordinary athletes. The underwater sequences are spellbinding, making the audience feel like they are immersed alongside the freedivers. The absence of a traditional musical score in most scenes heightens the tension and enhances the feeling of being submerged in the depths.
The Deepest Breath also succeeds in shedding light on the tight-knit freediving community, a group bound by trust and camaraderie. McGann's ability to uncover personal stories and emotions through interviews with Zecchini, Keenan's father, Peter, and fellow divers is commendable. The level of trust placed in safety divers like Keenan is unrivaled, and the film honors this integral aspect of the sport.
In conclusion, The Deepest Breath is a must-watch for both sports enthusiasts and those intrigued by the indomitable human spirit. With its stunning cinematography and intimate storytelling, the documentary takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the dangerous world of freediving. It serves as a profound testament to the resilience, passion, and camaraderie found in this remarkable sport.
Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by – Neha Krishna
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Publisher at Midgard Times