Learning to Breathe Under Water: A Shark's Tale of Bereavement and Resilience
The Headington Shark, a fiberglass sculpture that emerged from the roof of an English home in 1986, has become an iconic symbol of protest and art's unintended consequences. Now, a film by Rebekah Fortune titled "Learning to Breathe Under Water" takes this concept and swims across the Irish Sea, exploring the absurdity of death and the complexities of grief through the lens of a bereaved father and son.
A Tale of Two Tonnes
The film follows Peter (Rory Kinnear), a grieving artist who, after the death of his wife, constructs a metal shark on his roof, piercing the bedroom ceiling of his young son, Leo (Ezra Carlisle). The addition of a Bulgarian au pair, Anya (Maria Bakalova), brings a touch of whimsy and a potential source of conflict, as the narrative struggles to find its footing.
The script, written by Richard Brabin, introduces amusing lines, particularly from Leo, a serious and neurodivergent boy who finds comfort in stimming by touching his fingers together. This portrayal adds a layer of whimsy, reminiscent of the early work of Paddington director Paul King. However, the narrative's momentum falters as the film progresses, with the back half descending into mawkishness and manufactured conflict.
Kinnear's Stellar Performance
Rory Kinnear's performance shines as he effortlessly carries the lead role. His portrayal of Peter, a man grappling with grief, is a study in comic understatement that evolves into a delicately limned portrait of pain barely stifled. A particularly poignant scene where he plays his late wife's piano and silently starts crying is a heart-wrenching moment, highlighting Kinnear's ability to convey raw emotion.
Production Design and Visual Storytelling
The production design, overseen by May Davies, is a key element in illustrating Peter's emotional state. The clutter in the home reflects the chaos of an artist's life, adding depth to the narrative. Small snatches of stop-motion animation further enhance the film's visual storytelling, capturing the unique world inside Leo's head.
A Mixed Bag
Despite its flaws, "Learning to Breathe Under Water" offers a unique perspective on grief and the process of healing. The film's exploration of the absurdity of death and the challenges of moving forward is a thought-provoking journey. However, the narrative's uneven pacing and the need for a more refined script could have made it an even more impactful experience.
In conclusion, this film is a mixed bag, with a compelling central performance and a unique visual style, but it could have benefited from a more polished script and a tighter narrative structure. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder that art, like the Headington Shark, can multiply meanings and offer profound insights into the human condition.
