"All That Breathes" movie review

"All That Breathes" is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful film that explores the complex relationships between humans and nature. The story centers around a young woman who returns to her small hometown to care for her ailing father, but finds herself drawn into a world of environmental activism and a struggle to protect the local ecosystem from destruction.

The film's cinematography is stunning, with sweeping shots of the lush landscape and intimate close-ups that capture the raw emotions of the characters. The acting is also top-notch, with standout performances from the lead actress as well as the supporting cast.

What sets "All That Breathes" apart is its ability to tackle weighty issues without feeling heavy-handed or didactic. The film raises important questions about our responsibility to the natural world and the consequences of our actions, but it does so in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

Overall, "All That Breathes" is a must-see film that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the natural world.

One of the film's strongest points is its ability to balance the personal struggles of the characters with the larger environmental themes. We see the characters' relationships with each other and with their home environment evolve and change throughout the film. The story is not just about fighting against corporate interests or protecting a specific endangered species, but about the complex web of relationships between humans and the natural world.

The film also makes effective use of symbolism and metaphor, particularly in its use of water imagery. The importance of water to the local ecosystem, as well as its cleansing and transformative properties, are woven throughout the story, giving the film a poetic and almost mystical quality.

That said, the film is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the pacing slow or the plot predictable. Additionally, the film's exploration of themes like environmentalism and corporate greed may come across as heavy-handed to some viewers. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise powerful and moving film.

In summary, "All That Breathes" is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that is well worth watching. Its exploration of environmental themes and the relationships between humans and the natural world is thought-provoking and timely, and the film's artistic and narrative choices make it a truly unique and memorable cinematic experience.

Another aspect of "All That Breathes" that stands out is its authentic portrayal of rural life and the challenges facing small communities. The film does not shy away from the economic struggles and societal issues that many rural communities face, and it paints a nuanced picture of the complex relationships between people and the land they call home.

The film also benefits from a strong sense of place, with the setting itself becoming almost a character in the story. From the dense forests to the winding rivers, the film captures the beauty and majesty of the natural world, while also highlighting the ways in which human activity can disrupt and damage these ecosystems.

Finally, the film's message about the importance of environmental stewardship is delivered in a way that feels genuine and urgent. It does not rely on fear-mongering or guilt-tripping, but instead emphasizes the need for collective action and a greater sense of responsibility towards the world around us.

Overall, "All That Breathes" is a film that manages to be both deeply personal and politically relevant. It is a testament to the power of cinema to inspire, educate, and move us, and it is a film that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits have rolled.