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(2022)

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6/10
A grim tale but very strong storyline
anxiousgayhorseonketamine10 September 2022
Once upon a time there was a film made about Gandhi who insofar as I remember was Indian. They used a British Jewish actor to play Gandhi. I still wonder why? No Indians available?

Then later on and before that they would make cowboy movies with white actors painted to look like Braves. Here in these Woke years they use actor Sofiane to play a character called Pascal which may seem a bit odd to some viewers; did they run out of Frenchmen who are not French Arabs? It seems unnecessary to me but anyway he does a great job here as the Baddie of the piece.

As regards the other main protagonist her acting is okay here only during the bar scene with the secondary love interest does she giggle a tad like a brainless model; the rest of the time she is really quite adequate even very good at times. The other acting folks here are all pretty good not stellar But pretty good.

The tale here is a total grim fest. Both main characters have childhoods that would make Dickens and Eugène Sue blush and they tell you about them. The activity they are engaged in is to a sane person so crazy that it beggars belief.

I remember the film Le grand bleu (1988) from years ago (Luc Besson 1988) and this was excellent (free diving is huge in France) ; here we have what it has come to now an exaggeration a crazy hyperbolic take on free diving full of technology machines and pushing the human body to a place where it can only die.

Trying to produce no spoilers here but it does not end well surprisingly. Do not watch this film if you want something to cheer up this will not tick that box. Also it is intimated that something of the same nature happened in real time to a real female diver in The Dominican Republic; maybe just an homage; probably not a cut-and-paste

To summarise it is very adequate film well-made the acting I would rate at 75% of what it could have been; but whichever way you cut this the storyline is strong and that is a very crucial component of any movie...

PS so i went and watched Le grand bleu (1988) again after all these years and that too was not a tale of joy either .... I had forgotten the ending probably just remembered the cuddly dolphs and gorgeous curves of Rosanna .... but yes in a way "Sous Emprise" is just an amped version in the more accelerated and cruel world of 2022 .... I remembered Le grand bleu (1988) as chipper chirpier ... but noooooo it sure was not.
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7/10
Didn't have to happen
DarknessVisible201 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Based on the life and death of Audrey Mestre. Why didn't anyone help this woman up from her tragic final dive??? I understand they couldn't give her oxygen, but what is the point of having divers all along the diving route if they don't at least jump in and HELP HER UP in an emergency? They could have saved her life! Why didn't they? A life is more important than a stupid record! And the audacity of the little WORM who killed her suing Netflix because it makes him 'look bad'!! And the audacity of the few trolls on here defending him!! Evil!! This poor woman.... a life lost much too soon, at an age where you're lacking the wisdom to identify the snakes among us, which her 'partner' was. Rest in peace young lady, you deserved better and we're failed by many.
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6/10
Real life is horrible, quite interesting though
carrollar-5287118 September 2022
Quite nice cinematically, typically French and good if you're in a deep and thoughtful mood, but with some quite depressing themes so not one to cheer anyone up! This is exactly the sort of 'world' film that I like to watch by myself because no one else woukd watch it with me - it was dubbed but I might have actually preferred original French with subtitles as it keeps the arty quality.

There were a lot of things I found frustrating and nonsensical about the storyline until I wondered whether it was based on a real person, and then it started to make sense because real life is full of awful choices and watching flawed people make decisions that are hard to fathom.

Honestly so much of the story had me thinking 'that would never happen' that you pretty much couldn't make it up.

The main characters are often a bit unlikeable in my opinion and the ones that are decent seem to get the rough end of the deal... Unfortunately true to life you might think.

I do like the sea though, and it was interesting to learn about the sport and the psychology around it. I quite liked it but again, you'd need to be in the mood for something pretty slow but dramatic!
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7/10
Never trust a man .....Fiction But Based On Life of Real Divers
PalmBeachG2 March 2023
This fiction movie I found out after watching it is actually based on the life of Audrey Mestre (1974 - 2002) a French world record-setting freediver and her husband. Since it is actually a fiction movie, it is obvious that someone took liberties and embellished this story - they either had insider information on her personal details or made up a bunch of baloney for a story as it doesn't really match the Wikipedia biography on her. This disturbs me a bit because although 20 years have passed, I have no idea what the laws are in France but I assume that someone got paid or gave permission to do this Netflix story - and I truly hope it wasn't her husband exploiting her memory for money. He was actually portrayed as her boyfriend in this movie who was a diver himself and taught her how to dive. The movie itself was kind of interesting and gave me a greater understanding of the sport itself. I have no idea why someone would want to do it although I have seen lots of Greek divers in FL get started by diving for sponges, The acting was a little bad but the likeness of the FL was very similar to the real person.
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1/10
Exploitative Trash
captainbinome31 March 2023
Imagine losing your wife, and some hack who can only write soap opera drama writes you as an abuser, and your wife and yourself as cheaters, before implying you were just *so* jealous of your wife that you may have killed her.

But it's okay. They slapped a "Ficionalized Account" on it somewhere, and everyone is definatley smart enough to notice that and take it into account, when they also see that it claims to be based on real events. The film maker absolutely deserves to lose the, as of writing this post, upcoming lawsuit, and it is disgusting this film was ever made from this perspective.

Again, the only reason this seems to have been done is the writer themselves can't imagine writing anything else, as opposed to because it reflected reality.
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3/10
Bad performance acting and production...
mateusro-5910311 September 2022
Was expecting something more whit the story they had in hands with this movie, feeling like they're lost a great opportunity to explore a lot more. Feelings, expressions, moments, emotions... It was like the producer director was just sleeping while they've been producing the whole movie.

As a.follower of the american's productions tho is natural for me to feel frustrated with any other movie from another country. But this goes beyond that. The actors could really act way better as much as the.plot could have been way better worked out.

So that said, I want to make sure if you are going to watch this, go without any expectations as I did and maybe you can like it, I mean,,, it's not that bad as I made it seems like hahhaha Have a great time.
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5/10
Quite good
anna_lisiak18 September 2022
I enjoyed watching this film. It is different from all the other films you can see on Netflix. Based on a very interesting story. What this film has to offer are beautiful pictures of the see and under-the-surface world. The main characters risking their lives make you involved and worried about them every time they try to break a new diving record. At the beginning they mention though a Russian record diver named Alex Sikorsky- I could not trace this person anywhere in internet. Is this a fictional character? Sikorski is a Polish nobile family name, there was as well a Polish king with this name. So why Russian????? It lacks some basic research. Is Bonaparte an Italian name?
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8/10
Based on the life of Audrey Mestre
jwpicton13 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Many of the other reviewers have completely overlooked the fact that this film is based on the life, of Audrey Mestre. I'm not going to go into detail, you can do that yourself - it's a very easy wiki look up.

Suffice to say that apart from details like dates and locations, the film is consistent with the main aspects of actual events. The thing that prompted me to look this up was the ending. I couldn't find any information on her husband, but according to the record, he was, in fact, the last person to check the air supply for the lift back up.

As for the film itself, I think it's excellent; outstanding cinematography, a very definite sense of suspense and jeapordy without being overly dramatic and the acting is good, so good that every single actor is completely believable.

So much so that I found myself shouting at the TV, asking Pascal wtf his problem was, why was he so jealous, so twisted that he had to do that? Was there an equipment failure? Although that would seem very strange for such an experienced team.

Anyhoo, its well worth a watch, and I will always spare a thought whenever I see the ocean.
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1/10
Don't bother watching it
emilicanoska14 March 2023
The overall story of it would have been okay if they put more focus on the characters rather than the diving. Everything happened so fast there is no room to connect to movie and feel for the characters, pretty dull. I can honestly say the only good thing about this was the sunset scene where it was nicley captured and looked easy in the eyes. The acting wasn't that bad, it just wasn't as highlighted as it should have been, with all of the fast pace script i don't think they had enough space to show what they can do.

Definitely not a movie i would watch again, wish i could get my hour and thirty minutes back:)
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1/10
gross
sfrsez26 December 2023
Hey , lets make a film about boring obnoxious geeks. And make sure they are entirely devoid of wit. Shameful waste of great scenery and cinematography. Couldnt care less how it turns in or out. ,,ey , lets make a film about boring obnoxious geeks. And make sure they are entirely devoid of wit. Shameful waste of great scenery and cinematography. Couldnt care less how it turns in or out.... 4shame ,ey , lets make a film about boring obnoxious geeks. And make sure they are entirely devoid of wit. Shameful waste of great scenery and cinematography. Couldnt care less how it turns in or out.gngl.ggg.
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2/10
So bad... there are movies that suck but still ok, this is not even that
macicka9010 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Watched the entire move only because I am a fan of diving. And unfortunately it ends there, thats it, the diving is the only interesting thing here. Such badly written story, no depth, no spark, boring and predictable. Can't even say I connect it to the real story that should have been based on. This movie makes you not care at all. That boyfriend is so unlikable and horrible, it was obvious from the start how it gonna go down.. And the ending was such a disappointment, how the other guys just let the murder just slide and then the boyfriend is walking free, taking a smoke in the last scene... Really shame this movie exists. I only gave 2 stars for the water shots and diving... I will have to watch some great movie now just to wash away the dullness this movie left me with.
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8/10
Be skeptical about others critics
luctourinho13 September 2022
The movie is very unique, being different from all the movies I have ever seen. This alone helps to hold your attention, but an intriguing script and breathtaking scenery it captivates the viewer even more. Furthermore, the movie is quite realistic and is inspired by a real story, at the end of the movie it keeps you wondering of what actually happened and what was just fiction. Overall it's a nice movie, I was surprised by the negative reviews so far, definitely worth seeing, especially if you are interested in the plot, my only caveat would be if you are looking for a comedy or bawdy movie, otherwise I would definitely recommend watch it.
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10/10
Mindblowing
simeonova-eli4 February 2023
Surprised to see this rating on IMDB but for me this movie is 10/10.

Totally breathtaking from the first minute - maybe because for me water is a great mystery and every time they dive in I was stressed out, waiting to see what will happen.

A lot to learn from the story of the main character - Roxana and all the way she goes towards achieving her dream - to find her purpose.

Entangled within the hard live she had, the hard live her love had and the mistakes they want to "fix", there is a love story so complicated that you want to see it ending in a different way.

And I did not expect the ending of the movie which quite made me think of the whole story for days.
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8/10
The Things That Men Do
albertval-6956012 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
No doubt, an engrossing film. I suppose that anything that explores the deep is invariably a fascinating story, and this is one such film.

The story focuses on Roxy Aubrey, her stormy relationship with her trainer, champion diver Paschal Gautier, and her quest for dominance in free diving. It also takes a look on how free divers prepare for such competitions, and what it takes to be ready.

Writer-director Rosenthal based Roxy's story loosely on the real life of diver Audrey Mestre who died at the young age of 28 under similar circumstances in the Dominican Republic in 2002.

The actors portray their roles competently to bring to the screen the life of Paschal and Roxy. The cinematography is splendid capturing the quiet elegance of the deep sea as Paschal and Roxy descend to and ascend from heretofore unknown depths of 172, 180 meters. The shots are realistic complete with air bubbles that the viewer expects something wrong might happen along the way. These are the stuff that enrapt your attention. The viewer also picks up a lesson or two about this arcane world of free diving.

The viewer who's not familiar with Audrey Mestre's story will find the ending somewhat disturbing. Alas, what really happened on that fateful day may never be known.

This film, discomfitting as it may be, deserves our time.
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8/10
Great performance
rpyvzpz13 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Great performance by all the actors. Such an incredible story. The cinematography is just amazing. No over the top or dramatic scenes. It gives a glimpse of how the free divers practice before championships. The film makers say that the movie is loosely based on the life of Audre Mestre,a deep diver who lost her life in a very similar circumstance. The movie has successfully portrayed how jealousy can completely mess up a person's mental state and it makes them do the worst things. I think itself totally worth a watch. I accidentally found this movie while browsing through Netflix and it was worth my time. Totally recommend watching it at least once.
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8/10
Trust
kosmasp12 September 2022
No pun intended - you'll know if you watch the movie. Sometimes it is something that can never entirely be earned. Think about it - if you slept with someone (well that is putting the quick and passionate love making session mildly) who at the time was with someone else ... could you really trust that person? And to what degree would that trust go? Don't get me wrong that is not the "theme" itself the movie really puts in front of us.

It is about a woman who tries to find her way - and her purpose. And that purpose is not a man. Though that man does help her achieve her dreams and goals. But he is also dragging her down (sorry for the pun). There is more than meets the eye here and even more below the surface (again sorry for the pun).

And while the movie is also about love, most of it happens fully clothed - still apart from one scene baring it all, it is filled with passion and sounds that might make you feel uncomfortable. Everyone perceives things differently. But it is important that we see the passion, that we understand how deep (sorry) their love goes. Because only then we understand the full scope of the feelings that are being shared - one way or another.

Apparently based on a real story, though I am certain there have been taken creative licences - even with the ending you ask? I can't say - I might take a look one of these days ... still quite mesmerizing the way it is told.
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8/10
A real tragic story about Audrey Mestre and a narcissist.
anastasiaozg26 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The cinematics are perfect and the story was strong enough to deliver the message, the only problem was the direction/ screenwriting who was unfortunately, a bit empty and maybe shallow aat some points.

Firstly, I believe that the actress who played Roxana was not a good choice she looks more with a model and less with Audrey Mestre and didn't look physically like a fit athlete diver. The acting wasn't great either many times felt pretty empty. Secondly we didn't get to really meet her, we saw her dark past but that was it, not character development for us to actually know the character. (I'm sure Camille Rowe can perform better than this, i think it was a direction mistake)

Her husband Pascal (Pipin Ferreras) was perfectly portrayed as a controlling and competitive narcissist. In the movie and in reality he is responsible for her death (the documentary "no limits" explains everything better). Her husband Pipin should have been arrested and prosecuted, yet he's free, there was not enough investigation on her death because he couldn't deal with her being better than him.

I think with a story like that we could have seen and felt more.

Netflix did a good job by changing the dates and names of events for legal reasons, and yet, we all got the message....

It's sad to see so many great women, being taken down physically ofr emotionally by weak narcissistic men.
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8/10
In love with. .
jasmina-sarenkapa13 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Tom, or Cesar Domboy whatever. He is such a sweetheart and Ive watched his scenes a few times. Charming, cute, soooo nice in the movie and in real life as well. Im swooning. The movie is very good actually, I liked it. I would never have chosen Pascal, he is not appealing in any way to me. But yea, power is seductive. The question that bothers me is: Did he kill her or not? Oh man, I guess we will never know. European movies are much more raw and intense than Hollywood production, its real and authentic. P.s Netflix production is horrible lately but this one was really good. I love the french language, its beautiful.

P.p.s why would someone risk his life daily just to dive so deep? Thats one thing I dont understand. Maybe its to find your own limits?
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10/10
Extraordinary movie
evelynwalsh6114 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Seriously can't understand some of the low rating reviews here Just goes to show Art is subjective. I LOVED it. The cinematograpy, the emotional intensity, it explores the nature of sexual attraction- that heady mix of desire and (for one character) domination. The fragility of the suicidal ideated mind. The nature of unconditional love versus coercive control. The problem between men and women, particularly young women, the patriarchal nature of many sports. The soundtrack was perfect, editing and acting superb. I think the director is a genius. He's certainly passionate. May be triggering to some.
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8/10
Slow Burn Romantic Drama
iquine5 June 2023
When was the last time you held your breath for 30 seconds? 60 seconds....ever? Try holding it for 3+ minutes. The focus of this film is about deep-water free diving records. 172+ meters under water. It takes a team to assist as it is highly dangerous. While record-breaking divers are the main theme, the film follows a free spirit college dropout lady who stumbles into a relationship with a top diver who is a blatant narcissist. The lady actually starts to attempt some of her own dives. The story blends their rocky relationship with the smooth and calm diving attempts. Will there be more broken diving records or now broken hearts? This was an interesting small feeling film with some solid underwater shots and in-depth character development. It is actually based on a true story! Yikes!
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10/10
Based on true story
clementinka5 January 2024
I gave this film ten points when I finished watching it. In retrospect, I would have given it an eight. I gave it a ten at the time because I hadn't heard of freediving until then, and in this film I was completely captivated by the sport. The movie portrayed the underwater scenes really beautifully, you could totally feel the "confinement" of the space being so free. I often found myself holding my breath during the diving scenes. I was surprised that the film was inspired by a real woman. I was still reading about her and freediving long afterwards.

I'd give it an eight because the acting wasn't that strong in the film. But the story is really original. I recommend you to watch it.
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9/10
Very good !
greekdx23 November 2023
A true story about a girl who took up scuba diving to avoid going to university and her studies A young man and diving instructor assisted her to learn scuba diving .His aim was to take the world prize and continued even further exceeding his abilities sometimes putting his life at stakes . A very strong chemistry developed between them and they ended up becoming lovers.

Sufice to mention that the art of diving is very difficult and very dangerous at times. As far as I know, the side effects of deep diving can cause fainting, dizziness, , pressure on the body and many other problems.

Her mentor and companion, however, was highly initiating but also very obsessed with his goal of winning the prize this obsession brought him into conflict with his team. He had reached 178 meters of depth and he insisted that she go down even further.

Roxanne won a depth prize and continued for her next step by going even further down.

Very nice film with diving and bottom diving and slow paced, slow paced two hour film based on a true story. I was very much impressed.
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