I’ve always had a soft spot for biopics. As someone who enjoys history, I think they really help bring the past to life and teach us about significant people and events that might otherwise be forgotten. While I like movies about famous historical figures, my real favorites are those that tell the stories of everyday folks who face incredible situations with grace and determination. Learning about these unsung heroes is awe-inspiring. “Breathe,” a film inspired by the life of Robin Cavendish and his wife Diana, is a perfect example.
The Life of Robin Cavendish
You might not have heard of Robin Cavendish before, and that’s not surprising. If it weren’t for the way he lived with a severe disability, he might have remained unknown. In 1958, just two years after marrying Diana, Robin contracted polio and became paralyzed from the neck down. Initially given less than a year to live, Robin expressed a wish to die, but Diana begged him to stay alive for the sake of their son.
Robin’s condition slowly improved to where he could swallow and speak, but he needed artificial respirators to keep him alive for the rest of his life. Despite his doctor’s advice, Diana and some hospital staff helped Robin leave the hospital. At that time, no one with his level of disability had ever lived outside of a medical facility.
Over the next 30 years, Robin and Diana advocated for disabled individuals, pioneering ways to integrate them into everyday life. Innovations included a mobile wheelchair with a respirator, a hydraulic chair lift for vans, and equipment that allowed him to perform simple tasks with head movements. Robin also led efforts to identify and support users of iron lungs and raise funds to improve their lives. On a personal level, they tested Robin’s limits by living as fully as possible, raising their son, and staying deeply committed to each other.
Breathe Film Review
“Breathe” isn’t just a movie about a severely disabled man; it’s a beautiful celebration of life and love. Initially, I worried the film might be a bit depressing, but the opening scenes of the English countryside with uplifting music quickly proved me wrong.
The cinematography in “Breathe” is stunning. The film features breathtaking shots of England and South Africa, where the Cavendishes lived when Robin was diagnosed, as well as the more intimate settings of their home. The wide-open spaces at the beginning highlight their adventurous life before the diagnosis, contrasted with the confined spaces of Robin’s hospital bed. When Robin decides to live and thrive, the expanding spaces of his new life reflect his newfound freedom.
The film’s score is another standout element. Though brief, the five-song soundtrack has a powerful impact on the scenes. My favorite is the opening instrumental, followed closely by “True Love,” which underscores a happy moment early in the Cavendishes’ marriage and reappears at the film’s end. Fans of classic cinema may recognize “True Love” from the movie “High Society,” as it features the version sung by Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly, a personal favorite of Robin and Diana.
The success of “Breathe” largely rests on its talented cast. Andrew Garfield delivers an incredible performance, capturing not only Robin’s physical challenges but also his creative mind and unwavering spirit. Claire Foy shines as Diana, portraying her not as a sacrificial or dutiful wife, but as a woman deeply driven by love. Diana transforms from a privileged young lady into a resilient and hopeful woman.
Fans of BBC dramas will appreciate seeing Tom Hollander in the dual role of Diana’s twin brothers and Hugh Bonneville as their friend Teddy Hall. Teddy collaborates with Robin on the invention of the wheelchair that enhances Robin’s mobility. The communal support from friends and family was vital to Robin’s quality of life, and his friendship offered them much in return.
Behind the scenes, the couple’s son, Jonathan Cavendish, was so moved by his parents’ love story that he worked to bring it to the screen. He teamed up with actor and first-time director Andy Serkis to make this dream a reality. The quality of “Breathe” belies Serkis’ inexperience as a director.
While Robin’s story of thriving despite his disability is inspiring, at its core, “Breathe” is a love story. The film beautifully captures the deep bond and commitment between Robin and Diana. Diana truly embodied the “for better or worse” part of their wedding vows.
From beginning to end, “Breathe” is both a joy to watch and an inspiration. Robin and Diana didn’t let physical limitations define their lives. They constantly challenged what was considered possible, moving from the confinement of a hospital bed to the freedom of their home, and eventually, to traveling the world.
The film honestly addresses the challenges they faced, including intimacy within their marriage. They faced these challenges together, always with hope and optimism. They not only sought to create a fulfilling life for themselves but also fought to improve the conditions for others with disabilities. A poignant moment shows Robin addressing medical professionals, urging them to empower their disabled patients to truly live, inspiring a round of applause.
Conclusion
Overall, “Breathe” is nearly a perfect film. My only reservation concerns the last major medical decision Robin makes. Even today, the moral and ethical implications of such choices remain controversial. While I may not agree with Robin’s decision, the film presents it with compassion, making it understandable.
Few films are as inspiring or memorable as “Breathe.” It stands as a beautiful tribute to Robin and Diana Cavendish’s courage and love. This may be one of the best movies I’ve seen this year, and I highly recommend it.
“Breathe” is rated PG-13 due to its adult themes, some intense medical scenes, and mild language. You can stream it on Amazon Prime, or rent or buy it on Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, and VUDU.
Have you seen “Breathe”? What did you think of this romantic biopic? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
