Breathe: A Tabiyus Film

One of the most jaw-dropping aspects of BREATHE is how many incredible actors were brought together for this project. It's rare to see this level of talent all in one place, especially in an indie film. From Brandon Butler, who you might recognize from 13 Reasons Why, to Blue Kimble (P-Valley), Allison McAtee, and the Hoffman brothers, each actor brings something unique to the table, and it's clear that Director Tabiyus knew exactly how to get the best out of them.

What's impressive is how well this ensemble fits together, despite coming from such diverse acting backgrounds. You have actors from soap operas, network TV, streaming platforms, and even stage-all blending seamlessly into this gritty crime drama. I couldn't help but marvel at how cohesive the film felt, even with all these big personalities on screen. And it's not just about star power; these performances are grounded, raw, and emotional. Each actor seems perfectly suited to their role, and the result is nothing short of astonishing.

For me, what really stood out was how every actor, regardless of screen time, had their moment to shine. Whether it's Jesse Howland bringing depth to Alex Brady or Remington Hoffman as Brian Yune, no character feels wasted. You can tell that each actor took the time to truly inhabit their character, making even the smallest moments resonate. The way these performances intersect and bounce off each other is a testament to both the cast's chemistry and Tabiyus's direction.

It's not often that a film can juggle so many talented actors without one overshadowing the other, but BREATHE pulls it off effortlessly. This isn't just a collection of performances it's a masterclass in ensemble acting. Every character adds a new layer to the story, and by the end of the film, you're left in awe of the sheer talent that was packed into this one movie.

The opening scene of BREATHE hit like a punch to the gut. I wasn't expecting the raw intensity of that moment, and it set the tone for the entire film. Brandon Butler's portrayal of Craig London is haunting from the get-go, but what really stayed with me was how Amber L. DeVos and Barry Piacente as Christa and Max London play off each other. You can feel the weight of their broken relationship suffocating their son, and it's hard to watch without feeling a pang of sadness for him.

There's something about the way the scene is shot the dim lighting, the claustrophobic feel of the room that draws you in immediately. Without giving too much away, it's the kind of opening that leaves you with more questions than answers, which is exactly why it works. You're not just watching a family fall apart; you're seeing the first cracks that will ripple through the entire movie. It's emotionally charged without being melodramatic, and I found myself thinking about that moment throughout the rest of the film.

What makes this opening so effective is that it doesn't rely on flashy visuals or loud drama. It's the quiet moments-the glance between parents, the silent confusion of their child-that sets the stage for everything that follows. In just a few minutes, we are introduced to themes of addiction, trauma, and broken relationships that will carry the film forward, all through the lens of a single family's tragedy.

This scene perfectly encapsulates what BREATHE does so well throughout the movie: it shows rather than tells. You're not spoon-fed the characters' backstories, but you can feel their history in every look, every interaction. It's a testament to the film's ability to create an emotional connection with the audience right from the start, leaving you eager to see where the story will take you.

BREATHE masterfully unravels the lives of a suburban LA community ensnared by the drug trade, where interwoven fates collide, forcing characters to confront their darkest truths and navigate complex loyalties. This journey leads to a tragic, irreversible transformation.

I was thrilled to attend the Los Angeles premiere of the film. Jona Dominguez and Jeff Rose delivered standout performances that truly brought the story to life. The overall cast was impressive, particularly for an indie film, showcasing the raw, emotional depth required for such a complex narrative.

In his directorial debut, Tabiyus has crafted a compelling and gritty exploration of human nature under pressure. I'm excited to see what he does next as a director. BREATHE is a remarkable indie achievement that leaves a lasting impact.

Frederick Tabiyus Nah IV proves himself to be a true creative powerhouse in BREATHE. Taking on multiple roles as director, writer, producer, lead actor, casting director, and even contributing to the soundtrack, Nah's vision is the driving force behind the film's success. His ability to weave complex storylines into a cohesive, emotionally charged narrative speaks to his multifaceted talent.

Nah's portrayal of James Reed anchors the film with quiet strength. James is the moral compass in a world teetering on the edge of chaos, and Nah plays him with understated intensity. His performance shines in moments of stillness, where James tries to guide his best friend Craig (Brandon Butler) away from addiction. The emotional weight of these scenes is palpable, with Nah conveying James's frustration and quiet hope in every interaction.

As a director, Nah demonstrates a remarkable gift for pacing. BREATHE is a slow-burn crime drama, but the tension never lets up. He masterfully balances quieter, character-driven moments with high-stakes sequences, creating a dynamic narrative flow that holds the audience's attention throughout. Nah's control over the film's tone-from introspective scenes to moments of explosive action-speaks to his strength as a storyteller.

In addition to his work on screen, Nah's casting instincts are impeccable. The ensemble, featuring standout performances from Blue Kimble (Xzavion), Jona Dominguez (Lucas Hernandez), and Allison McAtee (Kendal Macario), reflects Nah's ability to bring together a diverse, talented cast. Each actor shines under Nah's direction, with performances that are grounded in authenticity and emotional depth.

Nah also played a pivotal role in the film's music, contributing the single "Revolution" to the soundtrack. The song serves as an emotional undercurrent to the film, amplifying its themes of survival and struggle. Nah's involvement in every facet of the production underscores his dedication to creating a fully immersive cinematic experience.

Ultimately, BREATHE is a testament to Frederick Tabiyus Nah IV's talents as a filmmaker. His ability to balance the demands of directing, acting, writing, producing, and music creation is nothing short of remarkable. Nah's vision drives the film, making BREATHE a standout indie project that lingers long after the credits roll.

Man, BREATHE hit me differently. It's not just a movie-it's proof that Black creatives, like Frederick Tabiyus Nah IV, can push past the norms and create art that touches people everywhere, no matter who they are or where they come from. This film gave me everything I didn't know I needed: action, drama, and heart, all wrapped up in a story that makes you feel something real.

Tabiyus Nah IV, as both the director, producer and actor, put his heart into this film, and it shows. What's truly fresh about BREATHE is how it reflects the idea that our choices are like ripples-affecting not just ourselves but everyone around us. The film doesn't shy away from the fact that even good people can find themselves in bad situations, and it asks hard questions about what it really means to survive and thrive. It hits you deep, making you reflect on your own life choices and their far-reaching consequences.

Honestly, this film is more than just a movie-it's a moment for Black creatives breaking past expectations and showing the world what's possible. BREATHE is a solid indie film by an even greater talent. Congrats to Tabiyus on creating something special-can't wait to see what's next!