Filming underwater scenes requires a unique set of challenges, and for the movie ‘Last Breath,’ it was no different. Director Alex Parkinson and his team went above and beyond to ensure that every underwater scene was as authentic as possible, capturing the essence of a dangerous and emotional true story. Here’s how they achieved these incredible underwater sequences.
Authentic Underwater Filming
One of the key elements in making ‘Last Breath’ feel real is the decision to avoid common Hollywood techniques like dry-for-wet filming. Instead, the filmmakers opted for actual underwater shots to bring a level of realism and immersion that few films can match. According to Parkinson, “None of it was faked.”
Training the Cast for Underwater Sequences
To ensure the cast could perform their underwater stunts and scenes authentically, actors Finn Cole and Simu Liu underwent intensive training. They spent an entire week at the Malta Film Studios, learning the basics of scuba diving. Parkinson praised their natural abilities, saying they were both able to quickly adapt to the challenges of underwater acting.
Innovative Filming Locations and Techniques
The production team turned to innovative filming locations and techniques to capture the underwater world of ‘Last Breath.’ One of the key locations was a 4-meter-deep saltwater tank at the Underwater Centre in Fort William, Scotland. This tank allowed the filmmakers to simulate the depths of the North Sea, the primary setting of the film, in a controlled environment.
Cinematographer Ian Seabrook used specialized equipment to film underwater in the tank, capturing the eerie atmosphere of the ocean floor. The limited space required creative filming solutions to make it appear like the actors were submerged in a vast ocean, but Seabrook and the team pulled it off perfectly.
Saturation Diving: A Dangerous Profession
The film also explores saturation diving, a highly technical and dangerous method used for deep-sea diving. Saturation diving involves divers living under high pressure for extended periods, making it possible to work at extreme depths for deep-sea operations. The movie showcases the harsh reality of this profession, and Parkinson’s team made sure to accurately represent the physical and emotional toll of saturation diving.
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind the Film
‘Last Breath’ is based on the true story of Chris Lemons, a saturation diver who was left stranded on the ocean floor after a diving accident. To ensure the film was as accurate as possible, the filmmakers worked closely with experts in the field and consulted with real-life saturation divers.
Conclusion
Filming underwater scenes for ‘Last Breath’ was no easy task, but the filmmakers’ dedication to realism and authenticity paid off. From extensive actor training to using specialized tanks and equipment, the team behind the film set a new standard for underwater storytelling. For those wondering, how was ‘Last Breath’ filmed underwater? The answer is through meticulous planning, real training, and a passion for telling an authentic story.
For more insights into the making of ‘Last Breath,’ be sure to check out behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the filmmakers and cast.
