Maria Bakalova and Rebekah Fortune express their deep connection to the film Learning to Breathe Under Water, which premiered on July 7 at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF). The movie, featuring young actor Ezra Carlisle, explores themes of grief and communication through the lens of a child and his unique friendship with a shark built into his home.
Exploring the Heart of the Film
In Learning to Breathe Under Water, young Leo, played by Carlisle, navigates life after the loss of his mother. His best friend, a shark on the roof, symbolizes his struggle to process complex emotions until the arrival of the lively au pair, Anya, portrayed by Bakalova. The film aims to resonate with both children and adults, highlighting the importance of understanding and discussing grief.
According to Fortune, the film's script, written by Richard Brabin, captivated her immediately. “I just instantly fell in love with Leo,” she recalls. “Being autistic myself, the way Leo just says what he thinks was refreshing.”
The Unique Artistic Vision
Filmed in Galway, Ireland, the movie features a distinctive artistic element, inspired by a real-life house in Oxford with a shark on the roof. This surreal touch sets the tone for a story that balances humor and heartache.
Fortune emphasizes the significance of portraying characters authentically. “Anya has almost this ADHD verbal diarrhea, which is also me,” she explains, connecting her own experiences with those of the characters. “It’s about learning how to breathe again,” she adds, reflecting on the film's core message.
Cast Chemistry and Audience Impact
Bakalova, who also felt an immediate connection to the script, highlights the chemistry among the cast. “It’s a special movie,” she states, acknowledging how the characters’ interactions bring a sense of warmth and empathy. “I fell in love with Leo and his perspective,” she says, emphasizing the film's universal themes.
The film aims to foster a sense of hope, even amidst difficult topics. Both Fortune and Bakalova believe that the film encourages audiences to be kinder and more understanding towards one another.
- Director: Rebekah Fortune
- Writer: Richard Brabin
- Starring: Maria Bakalova, Rory Kinnear, Ezra Carlisle
- Filming Location: Galway, Ireland
- World Premiere: July 7 at KVIFF
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Hollywood Reporter. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
