"Breathe" (original title "Respire") is a gripping French drama that delves into the complexities of adolescent friendships, the intensity of emotions, and the consequences of obsession.
Based on the novel of the same name by Anne-Sophie Brasme, the film captures the tumultuous relationship between two teenage girls, Charlie and Sarah, as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, love, and betrayal.
Synopsis:
Charlie, a 17-year-old girl, leads a relatively mundane life until the charismatic and enigmatic Sarah enters her world. The two quickly become inseparable, sharing secrets, dreams, and laughter. However, as their bond deepens, the lines between friendship and obsession begin to blur, leading to a series of events that will forever change their lives.
Release Information
- Release Date: 12 November 2014
- Duration: 91 minutes
- Rating: Not Rated (suitable for mature audiences due to thematic elements)
- Country of Origin: France
Cast & Crew
- Main Cast:
- Joséphine Japy as Charlie
- Lou de Laâge as Sarah
- Isabelle Carré as Vanessa, Charlie's mother
- Supporting Cast:
- Claire Keim as Laura
- Radivoje Bukvic as Michel
- Roxane Duran as Victoire
- Director: Mélanie Laurent
- Producers: Bruno Levy
- Writers: Mélanie Laurent (screenplay), Julien Lambroschini (screenplay), and Anne-Sophie Brasme (based on the novel by)
Where to Watch
United States (US)
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
Stream: Movie lovers in the US can stream the film on Hoopla and Film Movement Plus.
Buy/Rent: For those looking to purchase or rent, the movie is available on platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, and FlixFling.
Brazil (BR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
Stream: Currently, there are no streaming options available in Brazil.
Buy/Rent: Brazilians can purchase or rent the movie on Apple TV.
France (FR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
Stream: Currently, there are no streaming options available in France.
Buy/Rent: Salut les amis! The movie is available for purchase or rent on a variety of platforms including Apple TV, Orange VOD, FILMO, Canal VOD, Bbox VOD, Rakuten TV, and Amazon Video.
Canada (CA)
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
Stream: Canadians can stream the movie on Hoopla.
Buy/Rent: For those in Canada looking to purchase or rent, options include Apple TV and FlixFling.
Production Details
- Production Company: Move Movie, Gaumont, Mely Productions
- Filming Locations: France
- Budget: Estimated at €3 million
- Box Office Collection: Approximately €5 million (domestic and international combined)
Awards & Nominations
"Breathe" garnered significant attention in the film festival circuit and was recognized for its powerful storytelling and compelling performances.
- Awards Won:
- SACD Prize at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival (Directors' Fortnight)
- Best Adaptation at the 2015 César Awards
- Nominations:
- Best Female Newcomer (Joséphine Japy) at the 2015 César Awards
- Best Female Newcomer (Lou de Laâge) at the 2015 César Awards
- Best First Film at the 2015 Lumière Awards
Reviews & Reception
Upon its release, "Breathe" received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. The film was lauded for its raw portrayal of teenage emotions, with many praising the performances of its lead actors, Joséphine Japy and Lou de Laâge.
Critical Reception: Critics hailed Mélanie Laurent's direction, noting her ability to capture the nuances of adolescent relationships with authenticity and depth. The screenplay, co-written by Laurent, was also a subject of praise, with many highlighting its ability to evoke intense emotions without resorting to melodrama.
Audience Reception: The film resonated with audiences, especially with younger viewers who found the portrayal of the central characters relatable. The chemistry between Japy and de Laâge was particularly noted, with many viewers expressing their appreciation for the duo's on-screen dynamic.
Box Office Performance: "Breathe" performed well at the box office, especially considering its modest budget. The film's success can be attributed to its strong word-of-mouth and positive reviews, which drew audiences to theaters.