Breathe (2018)

And Breathe Normally (2018) - A Gripping Exploration of Humanity and Desperation

Introduction

"And Breathe Normally" is a profound and compelling drama-thriller film released in 2018, that delves into the intertwined lives of two women struggling against the odds within the harsh realities of modern society. Combining elements of crime and drama, this Icelandic movie provides an evocative, sensitive portrayal of migration, survival, and human connection. The film's narrative sheds light on some of the moral complexities associated with immigration and social marginalization, making it an emotionally charged cinematic experience for viewers around the world.

Plot Summary

Set primarily in Reykjavík, Iceland, "And Breathe Normally" follows the stories of two women from very different backgrounds whose lives unexpectedly intersect in a tale filled with tension, empathy, and resilience. One of the protagonists is Lára, portrayed by Kristín Þóra Haraldsdóttir, an Icelandic single mother contending with personal struggles and financial hardship. The other is Aldís, played by Babetida Sadjo, a refugee from Guinea who is desperately seeking asylum in Iceland while trying to keep her young daughter safe.

As the film unfolds, the audience witnesses both women's efforts to navigate and cope with the legal, emotional, and social challenges that fracture their realities. Lára, faced with limited opportunities, struggles to maintain custody of her children and provide for them, while Aldís confronts the precarious and strenuous process of immigration and asylum-seeking, compounded by cultural isolation and vulnerability. Their paths cross when Lára finds herself working for Aldís, and what begins as a transactional relationship slowly develops into a nuanced and complex bond.

The film uses crime and thriller elements to deepen the plot, revealing the darker sides of immigration enforcement and dealings on the fringes of society. Through nuanced storytelling, it highlights themes of trust, dignity, and hope despite challenging circumstances. The narrative intricately portrays how both women, despite their differences, share common struggles and humanity.

Main Cast

• Kristín Þóra Haraldsdóttir as Lára: Kristín delivers an outstanding and deeply heartfelt performance as Lára, the Icelandic single mother struggling to keep her family together under immense pressure and hardship. Her portrayal captures vulnerability and strength with exceptional subtlety, making Lára's journey resonate powerfully with viewers.
• Babetida Sadjo as Aldís: Babetida brings authenticity and emotional depth to the character of Aldís, the immigrant refugee fighting to secure a safe future for her child. Her powerful acting imbues Aldís with humanity and resilience, evoking empathy for the immigrant experience.

Director and Writer

The film is directed by Íris Guðmundsdóttir, whose sensitive approach to the script and direction elevates the film into a moving exploration of social issues intertwined with personal stories. Guðmundsdóttir also co-wrote the screenplay, skillfully crafting layered characters and a narrative that balances tension and humanity. Her vision ensures the movie avoids clichés, instead portraying the nuanced realities behind immigration and economic hardship.

Critical Reception and Themes

"And Breathe Normally" has been praised by critics for its realistic depiction of refugee and working-class struggles, as well as its suspenseful storytelling that doesn’t sacrifice emotional depth. The film's strength lies in its humanistic portrayal of two women thrust by circumstance into a complex and difficult relationship.

Several film festivals showcased the movie, where it received accolades for its direction, performances, and social relevance. The film stands out as a compassionate indictment of systemic challenges faced by immigrants and vulnerable populations, without losing sight of individual human stories.

Key themes explored in the movie include:

• Immigration and asylum processes with their legal and social hurdles.
• The economic desperation that fuels difficult moral choices.
• Loneliness and attempts at building trust across cultural divides.
• Motherhood and the fierce protective instincts it elicits amid adversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "And Breathe Normally" (2018) is a poignant, well-crafted film that deftly combines crime, drama, and thriller elements to highlight the human stories behind difficult social issues. With powerful performances by Kristín Þóra Haraldsdóttir and Babetida Sadjo, sensitive direction by Íris Guðmundsdóttir, and a thought-provoking screenplay, the film invites reflection on compassion and the resilience of the human spirit amidst socio-political challenges.

This movie is a significant contribution to Icelandic cinema and an eye-opener for audiences globally, providing insight into migration issues while also telling a deeply personal story filled with tension, hope, and humanity.

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