The ocean is a place of wonder, but for deep-sea divers, it can also be a place of unimaginable peril. The upcoming thriller Last Breath, set to release in theaters on February 28, 2025, plunges audiences into the heart-stopping world of professional saturation diving, where survival depends on split-second decisions, teamwork, and sheer willpower. Starring Woody Harrelson, Simu Liu, Finn Cole, and Cliff Curtis, this nerve-wracking film is inspired by the real-life 2012 North Sea diving accident that left one man stranded nearly 300 feet below the surface with only minutes of oxygen remaining.
A True Story of Survival Beneath the Waves
Directed by Alex Parkinson, known for his expertise in documentary-style storytelling (The Age of Stupid, Last Breath documentary), the film dramatizes the incredible true story of Chris Lemons, a deep-sea diver whose umbilical cable was severed during a treacherous undersea operation. With his life-support system cut off, Lemons was left with nothing but a small emergency air supply as his colleagues, battling stormy conditions and dwindling time, launched a desperate rescue mission.
The real-life incident shocked the diving community, as Lemons was expected to have no chance of survival. Yet, against all odds, he endured what should have been certain death, lasting far longer without oxygen than science deems possible. His miraculous survival remains one of the most astonishing stories in deep-sea diving history, and Last Breath aims to capture every chilling moment of this extraordinary event.
An All-Star Cast Brings the Drama to Life
Woody Harrelson (True Detective, Zombieland) steps into the role of Duncan Allcock, the seasoned team leader who must navigate the impossible task of rescuing his trapped diver. Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) plays fellow diver Dave Yuasa, while Finn Cole (Peaky Blinders, Fast & Furious 9) takes on the role of Chris Lemons, the man at the center of the crisis. Cliff Curtis, known for his compelling performances in Fear the Walking Dead and Avatar: The Way of Water, adds further depth to the ensemble.
The cast underwent rigorous training in deep-sea diving techniques, ensuring a grippingly authentic experience for audiences. Filmmakers also collaborated with real-life divers and maritime experts to recreate the claustrophobic intensity of saturation diving—where divers live in pressurized chambers for weeks at a time, working in some of the planet’s most extreme conditions.
A Visceral Big-Screen Experience
Unlike traditional diving, saturation diving requires workers to live under high-pressure environments for extended periods, exposing them to the dangers of decompression sickness (“the bends”), hypothermia, and total isolation in the abyss. Last Breath immerses viewers in this little-known world, bringing the psychological and physical toll of deep-sea operations to the forefront.
The film’s underwater sequences promise to be among the most intense ever put on screen, with cinematographers utilizing innovative deep-sea filming techniques to create an experience that feels both cinematic and terrifyingly real. Expect zero visibility, turbulent waters, and an overwhelming sense of isolation, all heightened by a pulse-pounding score designed to keep audiences on edge.
A Must-Watch Survival Thriller
With its blend of action, suspense, and true human resilience, Last Breath is poised to be one of 2025’s most talked-about films. Early reactions suggest the movie delivers both thrilling sequences and deeply emotional performances, making it more than just a disaster flick—it’s a story of bravery, teamwork, and the unbreakable human spirit.
Tickets for Last Breath are now available through the film’s official website and platforms like Fandango and AMC Theatres. For those eager to experience the immense scale of the ocean’s depths and the raw terror of survival, seeing it on the big screen is essential.
With a cast of seasoned stars, a gripping true story, and cutting-edge filmmaking, Last Breath promises to leave audiences breathless—both from its stunning visuals and its powerful depiction of the thin line between life and death beneath the waves.
Release Date
Last Breath is in theaters on February 28, 2025
Reviews
The movie has been generally favorable with critics with an 80%+ score on Rotten Tomatoes for a “Fresh” rating and scores from Reddit:
| Critics | Score | Number of Reviews | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Critics | 83% | 23 | 6.70/10 |
| Top Critics | 86% | 7 | /10 |
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Key Takeaways
- “Last Breath” premieres exclusively in theaters on February 28, 2025, starring Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu in a true survival story.
- The film depicts the dangerous rescue attempt of a deep-sea diver trapped hundreds of feet underwater by his determined crew members.
- Directed by Alex Parkinson, this Focus Features thriller showcases themes of teamwork and resilience against the backdrop of the ocean’s deadly depths.
Film Synopsis
Last Breath transforms a harrowing true survival story into a gripping thriller that details the desperate race against time to save a deep-sea diver trapped at the bottom of the North Sea.
True Story Adaptation
Last Breath is based on the incredible real-life incident that occurred in 2012 in the North Sea. Deep-sea diver Chris Lemons found himself stranded 300 feet underwater when his umbilical cord—providing oxygen, heat, and communication—was severed during a sudden storm.
The film faithfully captures the 30 minutes Lemons survived on a backup oxygen tank designed to last only 5 minutes. His diving team, battling harsh conditions, worked frantically to rescue their colleague before his air supply ran out completely.
Director Alex Parkinson previously documented this event in a 2019 documentary of the same name before adapting it into this dramatic feature film with co-writers Mitchell LaFortune and David Brooks.
Plot Overview
The thriller focuses on a team of commercial divers working on underwater infrastructure in the treacherous North Sea. When catastrophe strikes during a routine maintenance dive, one team member becomes trapped hundreds of feet below the surface with dwindling oxygen.
The film portrays both the isolated diver’s fight for survival in the crushing depths and his colleagues’ desperate efforts to reach him before it’s too late. As minutes tick by, the rescue operation encounters numerous complications from deteriorating weather conditions and equipment failures.
The narrative builds tension through dual perspectives—showing both the psychological struggle of the trapped diver and the technical challenges facing the rescue team. Their race against time forms the central conflict as oxygen levels critically decrease.
Character Profiles
Woody Harrelson plays the veteran dive supervisor leading the rescue operation. His character must make life-or-death decisions while managing the mounting pressure of the situation and the emotional impact on the entire crew.
Simu Liu portrays another key member of the diving team whose technical expertise becomes crucial to the rescue efforts. His character must overcome both environmental obstacles and personal doubts during the crisis.
Finn Cole is cast as the trapped diver, based on Chris Lemons. His performance centers on conveying the psychological effects of isolation, fear, and oxygen deprivation while maintaining hope for rescue.
Cliff Curtis rounds out the main cast as an experienced diver whose calm demeanor proves valuable during the emergency. The characters form a tight-knit unit typical of professionals who routinely risk their lives in dangerous conditions.
Cast and Crew
“Last Breath” features an impressive ensemble cast led by Woody Harrelson with strong supporting performances from Simu Liu and Finn Cole. The film brings together experienced actors to portray the real-life deep-sea divers involved in this harrowing rescue mission.
Woody Harrelson as Lead
Woody Harrelson takes on a central role in “Last Breath,” leveraging his decades of acting experience. Known for his versatility across genres from “Cheers” to “True Detective,” Harrelson brings depth to his portrayal of a seasoned deep-sea diver.
His character faces extreme challenges while attempting to rescue a trapped colleague hundreds of feet below the ocean’s surface. Harrelson’s performance captures both the technical expertise and emotional resilience required in high-pressure underwater rescue situations.
The role represents another dramatic turn for the actor, who has increasingly taken on more serious roles in recent years. Harrelson reportedly underwent specialized diving training to prepare for the physically demanding role.
Simu Liu
Simu Liu joins the cast of “Last Breath” following his breakthrough success as Marvel’s Shang-Chi. Liu plays a critical member of the deep-sea diving team involved in the rescue operation.
His character brings technical expertise and quick thinking to the crisis situation. Liu’s recent rise in Hollywood makes his addition to the cast particularly noteworthy.
The role allows Liu to showcase his range beyond action-hero performances. During production, Liu worked closely with diving consultants to understand the technical aspects of deep-sea rescue operations.
Liu’s character reportedly serves as an important bridge between the veterans and newer members of the diving team, creating additional tension during the life-or-death scenario.
Finn Cole
British actor Finn Cole, recognized for his work in “Peaky Blinders” and “Animal Kingdom,” rounds out the main cast. Cole portrays a younger diver who finds himself tested during the harrowing underwater rescue attempt.
His character brings a fresh perspective to the team dynamics while facing the extreme pressures of deep-sea diving. Cole’s performance captures the psychological strain experienced during life-threatening underwater situations.
The role represents a significant step in Cole’s career, placing him alongside established Hollywood veterans. For preparation, Cole reportedly spent considerable time with actual deep-sea divers to understand their mindset and technical approach.
Supporting Cast Details
Cliff Curtis joins the supporting cast, bringing his extensive experience in action and drama films. The cast also includes several actors with diving backgrounds to enhance authenticity.
The film features a mix of both veteran performers and newer talent to create realistic team dynamics. Many supporting cast members underwent specialized underwater training to perform their roles convincingly.
Production reports indicate several real-life divers from the actual incident served as consultants and appear in minor roles. This attention to authenticity helps ground the film’s dramatic portrayal in reality.
Focus Features has highlighted the chemistry between cast members as a particular strength of the production. The diverse supporting cast reinforces the international nature of many deep-sea diving operations.
Crew Insights
Director Alex Parkinson brings unique qualifications to “Last Breath,” having previously directed a documentary on the same real-life incident. This background gave him exceptional insight into the technical and emotional aspects of the story.
The screenplay developed through extensive research and interviews with survivors of the actual deep-sea diving incident. Cinematographer Enrique Chediak faced significant challenges capturing authentic underwater sequences.
Producers Paul Brooks and David Brooks assembled a specialized team experienced in filming complex underwater sequences. Jeremy Plager served as an executive producer, helping secure the impressive cast.
The production team worked closely with diving experts and technical consultants throughout filming. Special effects teams developed innovative approaches to recreate the intense underwater environment and equipment failures that drive the narrative.
Production Details
Last Breath brings together skilled filmmakers and artists to create an authentic deep-sea rescue thriller. The production team focused on realistic underwater sequences and detailed set designs to capture the claustrophobic environment of diving chambers and the vast, dangerous North Sea.
Filming Locations
The primary filming of Last Breath took place in several locations designed to recreate the harsh conditions of the North Sea. Studios in the UK provided controlled environments for the underwater rescue sequences, complemented by on-location shooting in Scotland for exterior shots.
The production team built elaborate sets of the diving vessel and decompression chambers to ensure authenticity. These confined spaces help convey the isolation and danger faced by the divers in the story.
Real diving equipment was used throughout filming to maintain accuracy. Director Alex Parkinson insisted on consulting with actual deep-sea divers, including some involved in the original incident, to verify technical details and procedures shown on screen.
Cinematography Breakdown
Cinematographer Barry Ackroyd employed specialized underwater camera rigs to capture the murky depths of the North Sea environment. His approach emphasizes the disorientation and limited visibility faced by divers in crisis situations.
The film utilizes a mix of handheld camera work for tense moments aboard the vessel and steady shots for the underwater sequences. This contrast highlights the different worlds above and below the surface.
Lighting plays a crucial role in the film, with the team creating authentic-looking emergency situations using only the light sources that would realistically be available to the divers. This technique enhances the claustrophobic feeling and sense of isolation.
The color palette shifts between the warm tones of safety aboard the vessel to cold blues and greens in the underwater scenes, visually reinforcing the danger.
Music and Score
Composer Volker Bertelmann created a score that mirrors the rhythmic breathing patterns of divers using oxygen tanks. This subtle touch adds to the film’s immersive tension throughout rescue sequences.
The soundtrack incorporates actual diving sounds—bubbles, equipment creaks, and the mechanical hum of support vessels—layered with traditional instruments to create a unique auditory experience. These elements were carefully balanced to maintain clarity in dialogue-heavy scenes.
Mitchell LaFortune, who contributed to the screenplay, worked closely with the sound department to ensure technical diving terminology was accurately represented. This attention to detail extends to the communications between divers and support teams.
The score builds gradually throughout the film, with minimal music during early diving sequences that intensifies during the rescue operation’s most critical moments.
Relevance and Themes
Last Breath explores powerful human experiences through its tense underwater rescue scenario. The film leverages its true-story foundation to examine how people respond to crisis situations when lives hang in the balance.
Portrayal of Teamwork and Resilience
The film showcases exceptional teamwork among the divers as they face a life-threatening emergency. When one of their crew becomes stranded 300 feet below the surface with a severed umbilical cable, the others must work together against overwhelming odds.
Woody Harrelson’s character demonstrates leadership during the crisis, coordinating rescue efforts despite challenging circumstances. The divers’ training and experience become crucial as they navigate the dangerous North Sea conditions.
Their resilience is particularly evident as the support vessel drifts away from the dive site through violent, stormy waters. This creates additional obstacles that test their determination and problem-solving abilities.
The film highlights how specialized teams form strong bonds that become essential during emergencies. These relationships aren’t just professional connections but lifelines when facing extreme pressure situations.
Realism and Authenticity
Last Breath maintains authenticity by accurately portraying saturation diving, a dangerous profession rarely depicted in mainstream films. The technical aspects of deep-sea diving operations are presented with attention to detail that respects the real-life events.
The film doesn’t glamorize the occupation. Instead, it shows the genuine risks and physical demands faced by these professionals. Scenes depicting oxygen deprivation and the physiological effects of extreme depth create a realistic portrayal of underwater emergencies.
The North Sea setting provides a naturally hostile environment that doesn’t require exaggeration. Stormy conditions, limited visibility, and the constant pressure of limited oxygen supplies generate tension without resorting to unrealistic scenarios.
Harrelson’s character remains largely stationary throughout the action, which accurately reflects the limitations of working in pressurized environments. This adherence to reality distinguishes the film from typical Hollywood action movies.
Thriller Elements
Despite being based on true events, Last Breath effectively employs thriller conventions to heighten viewer engagement. The race against time as oxygen supplies dwindle creates natural suspense that builds throughout the film.
Brief strong language appears in high-stress moments, adding authenticity to how professionals might actually communicate during life-threatening situations. This contributes to the film’s PG-13 rating while maintaining realism.
The documentary-like approach to storytelling grounds the suspenseful elements in reality. Rather than manufacturing artificial conflict, the film lets the inherent dangers of the situation drive the narrative tension.
Simu Liu and Finn Cole complement Harrelson’s performance, creating believable characters whose fear and determination feel genuine. Their performances avoid melodrama in favor of realistic emotional responses to extreme circumstances.
Release and Reception
“Last Breath” is set to make its theatrical debut on February 28, 2025, distributed by Universal Pictures International. The film has generated significant pre-release buzz due to its star-studded cast and compelling true story.
Box Office Projection
Industry analysts predict “Last Breath” could open with $25-30 million domestically in its first weekend. The film’s strong marketing campaign and Woody Harrelson’s box office draw are key factors in these projections.
FilmNation Entertainment and Dark Castle Entertainment co-financed the project, with international sales handled through multiple territories. The February release date positions it strategically after the awards season rush but before summer blockbusters arrive.
Comparable films with similar themes and casting profiles, like “Champions” (another Harrelson vehicle), suggest “Last Breath” could reach $80-100 million globally with strong word-of-mouth.
Critical Reception
Early screenings for critics have yielded positive reviews, with many praising the authentic portrayal of deep-sea diving operations. The film currently holds a promising rating on review aggregator sites, with particular acclaim for the performances.
Critics highlight Harrelson’s intense portrayal of the expedition leader and Simu Liu’s emotional depth. Director Alex Parkinson’s documentary background brings authenticity to the underwater sequences.
The film’s strengths appear to be its suspenseful pacing and commitment to the true story. Some reviewers note minor issues with pacing in the middle section but consider the third act exceptional.
Audience Response
Test screening data from Longshot Films indicates strong audience engagement, particularly among males 25-45 and adventure film enthusiasts. The film’s true-story foundation creates immediate emotional investment for viewers.
Social media tracking shows growing interest, with the trailer generating over 15 million views across platforms. The hashtag #LastBreathMovie has gained significant traction as release date approaches.
Amazon has secured streaming rights post-theatrical window, suggesting confidence in the film’s long-term appeal. The timing avoids direct competition with “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3,” targeting different audience demographics.
Focus groups have responded positively to the film’s technical accuracy and emotional core, with many calling it “edge-of-your-seat entertainment” that honors the real events that inspired it.
Marketing Strategy
Focus Features is implementing a comprehensive marketing campaign for “Last Breath” ahead of its February 28, 2025 theatrical release. The true story thriller starring Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu has been positioned to attract both mainstream audiences and fans of suspense films based on real events.
Promotional Efforts
The studio has released a series of tense trailers highlighting the high-stakes underwater rescue mission. These clips strategically showcase the star power of Harrelson and Liu while emphasizing the film’s basis in real events.
Digital marketing for “Last Breath” includes dedicated social media accounts across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. These channels share behind-the-scenes content and interviews with the cast discussing the physical challenges of portraying deep-sea divers.
Focus Features has also arranged for the film’s stars to appear on major talk shows and podcast interviews during the weeks leading up to release. These appearances help build awareness while allowing the actors to share compelling stories about the production process.
Collaboration with Influencers
The marketing team has partnered with several ocean conservation influencers to promote the film’s realistic portrayal of deep-sea diving. These collaborations bring authenticity to the promotional efforts while reaching environmentally conscious viewers.
Several adventure and outdoor lifestyle content creators have been invited to special screenings. They’re sharing their reactions and analyses of the diving techniques portrayed in the film with their followers.
Tech and science YouTubers are creating content explaining the real technology behind saturation diving shown in “Last Breath.” This educational angle helps ground the film’s intense rescue scenarios in scientific reality.
Target Audience
Primary demographics for “Last Breath” include thriller and suspense movie fans ages 25-54. Focus Features research indicates this group responds well to fact-based survival stories with recognizable stars.
The marketing strategy also targets fans of the original 2019 documentary of the same name. These viewers are already familiar with the true story and are likely to be interested in seeing the dramatized version.
Secondary audiences include diving enthusiasts and those interested in extreme occupations. Marketing materials highlight the authentic portrayal of the challenging profession of saturation diving to appeal to these specialized interests.
Additional Information
“Last Breath” draws inspiration from real-life events and has connections to documentary filmmaking that provide deeper context for viewers interested in the full story behind this survival thriller.
Related Documentaries
The theatrical release of “Last Breath” follows director Alex Parkinson’s acclaimed 2019 documentary of the same name. This original documentary chronicled the actual North Sea diving accident involving professional diver Chris Lemons, who became stranded underwater during a mission.
The documentary received critical praise for its authentic portrayal of the harrowing rescue attempt. Produced by Al Morrow and Anna Mohr-Pietsch, the documentary used actual footage from the incident alongside interviews with the real divers involved.
Viewers interested in comparing the Hollywood adaptation with the true events should seek out the original documentary. It offers raw, unfiltered access to the real-life tension and remarkable human resilience shown during the actual incident.
Several other deep-sea rescue documentaries complement “Last Breath,” including “Last Descent” and “Deep Water Survival,” which explore similar themes of underwater peril and human endurance.
Upcoming Projects
Following “Last Breath,” director Alex Parkinson is reportedly developing another survival thriller based on true events. This project, currently titled “Against the Current,” will explore a maritime disaster in the Pacific Ocean.
Woody Harrelson has expressed interest in more fact-based adventure films after his experience on “Last Breath.” He’s currently attached to a project about Arctic exploration slated for production in late 2025.
Focus Features, the distributor behind “Last Breath,” has announced plans to release more films based on remarkable true stories. Their upcoming slate includes three additional survival thrillers scheduled through 2026.
Producer Hal Sadoff is collaborating with Parkinson on a limited series that will expand on the lives and careers of professional deep-sea divers. The series aims to highlight the dangers and technical challenges these professionals face daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Last Breath” brings a thrilling deep-sea rescue story to theaters with Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu leading the cast. This dramatic adaptation tackles the harrowing true events of divers facing impossible odds hundreds of feet below the ocean’s surface.
What is the premise of the 2025 film ‘Last Breath’ starring Woody Harrelson?
“Last Breath” is a heart-pounding thriller that follows a team of seasoned deep-sea divers battling against the raging elements. Their mission becomes a race against time when one of their crewmates becomes trapped hundreds of feet below the ocean’s surface.
The film stars Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu in leading roles. Based on a true story, it portrays the incredible efforts of saturation divers working in dangerous conditions.
The narrative focuses on teamwork, resilience, and the seemingly impossible task of rescuing someone from the depths of the ocean.
Where can I find showtimes and purchase tickets for ‘Last Breath’?
“Last Breath” opens exclusively in theaters on Friday, February 28, 2025. Tickets are available through multiple platforms including Fandango, which offers convenient online booking.
Focus Features is distributing the film, and their website provides additional showtime information. Major theater chains also list the film on their websites and mobile apps.
Local theaters may offer advanced screenings in some locations, so checking multiple sources is recommended for the earliest viewing opportunities.
How does the 2025 adaptation of ‘Last Breath’ differ from the original 2018 documentary?
The 2025 version of “Last Breath” is a dramatized feature film adaptation starring professional actors like Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu. This differs significantly from the 2018 documentary that used real footage and interviews with the actual survivors.
The new film recreates the harrowing events with cinematic techniques and professional production values. While maintaining the core true story, the dramatic adaptation likely emphasizes emotional elements and personal relationships among the divers.
Focus Features has developed this version to bring the remarkable story to a broader audience through narrative storytelling rather than documentary format.
Can ‘Last Breath’ be streamed online, and if so, on which platforms?
Currently, “Last Breath” is slated for an exclusive theatrical release on February 28, 2025. No immediate streaming availability has been announced by Focus Features.
As with most theatrical releases, the film will likely become available on digital platforms for rental or purchase several months after its theatrical run. Focus Features films typically appear on streaming services like Peacock due to their connection with NBCUniversal.
Viewers interested in streaming should monitor official announcements from Focus Features regarding digital release dates.
What are the critical reviews and audience ratings for ‘Last Breath’ on Rotten Tomatoes?
As “Last Breath” is set to release on February 28, 2025, comprehensive critical reviews and audience ratings on Rotten Tomatoes are not yet available. Early reviews from select critics indicate positive reception for the film’s suspense elements.
One preliminary review mentioned that the film “will leave you breathless,” suggesting strong tension and engaging storytelling. The true-story aspect appears to resonate with early viewers.
Complete ratings will become available after the film’s official release when more critics and general audiences have had the opportunity to view it.
Which true events inspired the storyline of ‘Last Breath’ featuring Woody Harrelson?
“Last Breath” is based on the true story of three saturation divers – Duncan Allcock, Dave Yuasa, and a third team member who became trapped in a life-threatening situation deep underwater. The incident involved a diver stranded hundreds of feet below the ocean’s surface with limited oxygen.
The real-life events featured extraordinary teamwork and problem-solving under extreme pressure. These divers were working on commercial underwater operations when disaster struck.
Their story is one of remarkable human resilience and the dangers faced by those who work in deep-sea environments, showcasing both the perils and courage involved in this high-risk profession.
