Director: Karl Markovics
Talent: Thomas Schubert, Karin Lischka, Gerhard Liebmann
Release Date: April 20th
Breathing marks a measured, mature and impressive debut from Austrian filmmaker Karl Markovics, best known in this part of the world for his role in 2007’s The Counterfeiters. The film focuses on Roman, a nineteen year old scratching out an existence in a juvenile detention center who takes a job at a morgue in an attempt to prove he is ready for independent, adult life. Unlike his charges, he is breathing, but whether or not he is really living is the film’s primary concern. Thomas Schubert is excellent as the nearly mute protagonist who finds himself consistently reminded of the frailty and inconstancy of life.
Markovics has created a masterclass in pacing, his unfussy directorial style offering a delicate focus on moments of emotional significance without resorting to sentimentality. Skillfully negotiating themes such as guilt, redemption and mortality, Breathing is resonant, contemplative and a pleasure to experience.
Words: Emma Keaveney
