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Breath

Name: Breath
Director: Simon Baker
Released: 2017
Duration: 115 min

Representation Score

3.6/10

Limited

2017

TV-MA

Director

Simon Baker

Runtime

115 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Breath is a character-driven drama that emphasizes psychological realism over identity politics. It dismantles traditional coming-of-age narratives by focusing on the existential anxieties of its characters. However, the film’s adherence to the demographic realities of 1970s Australia restricts its diversity. The narrative remains heavily centered on male experiences and Western coastal norms. Ultimately, the film provides a sophisticated look at the fear of being ordinary, even if it lacks diverse representation across racial and gender lines.

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Category Breakdown

Does Breath have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The story focuses on strong emotional bonds between young males and an older mentor. While it delves into a deep sense of identity, it doesn't explore explicit queer romantic relationships or non-straight relationships.

How does Breath portray gender?

Fair

The film centers around a male-dominated framework focused on surfing and risk-taking. Female characters play minor roles, supporting the main male development rather than driving the primary narrative.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Breath?

Limited

Set in 1970s Western Australia, the film reflects the demographic uniformity of that time. The cast and setting align with the Western, Anglo-Saxon norms of the period.

How does Breath represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative criticizes the monotony of small-town life by focusing on characters who fear being ordinary. It explores existential risks rather than traditional middle-class domesticity, while staying rooted in Western coastal identity.

Does Breath include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of visible or invisible disabilities. None of the character arcs seem to be driven by disability based on the provided narrative summary.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced, atmospheric exploration of the psychological pressures of manhood.
Challenges conventional coming-of-age clichés through deep, character-driven storytelling.
Provides a sophisticated critique of provincial social structures and the fear of mediocrity.

Limited or Absent

Lacks significant gender diversity, as female characters remain largely peripheral to the plot.
Reflects a narrow demographic scope by adhering strictly to 1970s Anglo-Saxon social norms.
Does not feature explicit LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight romantic connections.

Official Synopsis

A pair of teenagers in Western Australia looking to escape the monotony of life in a small town take up surfing lessons from a guy named Sando.

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