Last Breath: A Tense Deep-Sea Survival Tale Anchored by Atmosphere, Not Emotion

Last Breath (2025)

Last Breath (2025), directed by Alex Parkinson, dramatizes the harrowing true story of saturation diver Chris Lemons, who became stranded 300 feet below the North Sea with only minutes of oxygen after a catastrophic equipment failure during a 2012 maintenance dive. Starring Finn Cole as Lemons, with Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu portraying his crewmates Duncan and Dave, the film offers a gripping portrayal of human resilience and the perils of deep-sea diving.

Strengths: Immersive Atmosphere and Technical Realism

The film excels in creating a claustrophobic and immersive underwater environment. Cinematographer Ian Seabrook captures the murky depths and confined spaces with striking realism, enhancing the tension of Lemons' predicament. The use of realistic underwater photography and stunts adds authenticity to the narrative, effectively conveying the dangers of saturation diving.

Parkinson's direction maintains a tight focus on the central crisis, eschewing unnecessary subplots to deliver a streamlined, suspenseful experience. The film's concise 93-minute runtime ensures a brisk pace, keeping viewers engaged throughout.

Performances: Solid but Underdeveloped

Finn Cole delivers a compelling performance as Chris Lemons, capturing both his initial confidence and subsequent desperation. Woody Harrelson brings warmth and humanity to the role of Duncan, a veteran diver facing the end of his career, while Simu Liu portrays the stoic and focused Dave with quiet intensity.

However, the film falls short in character development. The supporting characters, including Lemons' fiancée Morag, are underutilized, serving primarily as narrative devices rather than fully realized individuals. This lack of depth limits the emotional impact of the story, making it challenging for viewers to form strong connections with the characters.

Criticisms: Predictability and Emotional Detachment

While Last Breath effectively portrays the technical aspects of the rescue operation, it struggles to convey the urgency and emotional stakes of the real-life event. The film's adherence to genre conventions and predictable plot developments diminish its potential impact. Additionally, the inclusion of flashbacks and exposition, intended to provide context and character background, occasionally disrupts the narrative momentum and fails to deepen the audience's emotional engagement.

Verdict: A Visually Striking but Emotionally Limited Thriller

Last Breath offers a visually compelling and technically proficient depiction of a remarkable true story. Its strengths lie in its immersive atmosphere and realistic portrayal of deep-sea diving. However, the film's limited character development and reliance on familiar tropes hinder its ability to fully resonate on an emotional level. For viewers interested in survival dramas and maritime thrillers, Last Breath provides a tense and engaging experience, though it may leave some desiring a deeper emotional connection.