Learning to Breathe Under Water
· wildlife
The Whale in the Roof: A New Wave of Authenticity in Family Films
The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival’s Special Screenings program has brought attention to director Rebekah Fortune’s “Learning to Breathe Under Water,” a film that promises to be both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The movie tells the story of Leo, an eight-year-old boy who confides in his best friend – a massive shark built into the roof of their home by his artist father.
The script, written by Richard Brabin, gives voice to the often-unsaid feelings and struggles of children on the autism spectrum. Fortune’s own experiences as an autistic person have clearly influenced her approach, resulting in a film that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Maria Bakalova shines as Anya, the spirited and bubbly au pair who shakes up Leo’s life. Her energy and warmth bring the character to life, and her chemistry with Ezra Carlisle, who plays Leo, is undeniable.
The film tackles complex issues like grief, anxiety, and social awkwardness with sensitivity and honesty, never resorting to simplistic solutions or easy answers. This approach is particularly noteworthy given the target audience for family films, which often demands a level of sugarcoating that can feel dishonest. The influence of artist Bill Heine’s real-life shark installation in Oxford on the film is also intriguing, although “Learning to Breathe Under Water” is not a direct adaptation.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its refusal to shy away from difficult subjects. By giving voice to the often-unsaid experiences of children on the autism spectrum, Fortune and Brabin have created a film that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. The cast’s performances are authentic and heartfelt, making it clear that Fortune has brought out the best in each of them.
The result is a film that blends elements of reality and fantasy in a way that feels entirely organic. With its commitment to authenticity and its refusal to shy away from complex issues, “Learning to Breathe Under Water” has the potential to pave the way for a new wave of storytelling that is both more honest and more engaging.
As we watch “Learning to Breathe Under Water” make its world premiere at KVIFF, it’s clear that this is a film that has something important to say. Its talented cast, innovative storytelling, and commitment to authenticity make it an event not to be missed – and one that promises to leave audiences thinking long after the lights come back up.
The success of “Learning to Breathe Under Water” will depend on how well it connects with viewers outside of the festival circuit. Will a film about a boy who confides in his shark friend resonate with mainstream audiences, or is this a niche product destined for specialty theaters and art-house screenings?
Reader Views
- ACAlex C. · amateur naturalist
It's refreshing to see a film tackling autism with such sensitivity and authenticity, but I do wish the article had delved deeper into the practical implications of using art as therapy for children on the spectrum. In my experience studying animal behavior, sensory stimulation from natural environments can be incredibly therapeutic for individuals with autism – it's intriguing that Fortune and Brabin chose to feature a shark installation in their story, but what potential benefits or drawbacks does this approach hold in real-world settings?
- TFThe Field Desk · editorial
The authentic family film has finally arrived, and its arrival is long overdue. Rebekah Fortune's 'Learning to Breathe Under Water' isn't just heartwarming; it's also a stark reminder of how few filmmakers dare to truly represent the complexities of autism on screen. One aspect that deserves particular scrutiny is the film's portrayal of grief in Leo's life - while it's handled with sensitivity, some may question whether it sets an unrealistic expectation for children dealing with trauma. Nevertheless, this is a crucial conversation starter that will have audiences and critics alike debating its implications for weeks to come.
- DWDr. Wren H. · ecologist
The film's portrayal of autism spectrum disorder is commendable for its nuanced and authentic representation. However, I worry that the article glosses over the challenges of translating such complex issues into a family-friendly narrative without sacrificing artistic integrity. One aspect worth exploring further is the potential consequences of reinforcing "sensitive" storylines as market-driven tropes, rather than genuine explorations of neurodiversity.