Breathe: A Tabiyus Film

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.

Frederick Tabiyus Nah IV's BREATHE is a compelling dive into the dark, intertwined lives of characters struggling to escape their pasts while navigating present-day dangers. The film focuses on Craig London, a young man battling addiction, and his attempts to reconcile with his estranged family, all while navigating the influence of a dangerous criminal world. At its heart, BREATHE explores themes of family, survival, and the haunting grip of trauma.

The film weaves together multiple character arcs, each bringing its own intensity and emotional baggage to the table. From the volatile father-son relationship between Craig and his abusive, alcoholic father, Max, to the gang-infested world that Brian and James find themselves entangled in, the stakes always feel high. Tabiyus masterfully uses this tension to maintain a sense of urgency and suspense throughout the film.

What stands out most in BREATHE is its authenticity. The raw emotions, sharp dialogue, and genuine portrayal of addiction and familial dysfunction make the characters feel painfully real. The interactions between characters like Craig and his father are heartbreaking and visceral, leaving the audience caught between empathy and frustration. The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances that heighten the emotional gravity of the story, particularly in the moments where they confront their inner demons.

However, BREATHE isn't just a family drama-it's also a crime thriller. The gritty, dangerous world of drug deals, gang confrontations, and violent turf wars bring a palpable tension that keeps viewers on edge. Xzavion, the menacing antagonist, adds a layer of unpredictability that raises the stakes for Craig, Brian, and James as they try to navigate their respective paths.

A potential drawback is the sprawling narrative, with multiple storylines unfolding at once. However, BREATHE handles this complexity well. Strong character development and tight pacing keep the arcs easy to follow, making the layered storytelling feel both engaging and essential.

Overall, BREATHE is a striking and emotional film that blends family drama with the grittiness of a crime thriller. Frederick Tabiyus Nah IV has crafted a narrative that holds nothing back, showcasing the difficult choices people must make to survive-while still holding out hope for redemption. If you're a fan of intense, character-driven stories with real stakes, BREATHE is definitely worth the watch.

I had the pleasure of attending the premier of this film and it was beautiful! The way the lives of these LA citizens were woven while also displaying the director's own artistic choices was amazing. The film takes you through a journey from beginning to end, questioning who these people are and why we should care about them, to ultimately leaving us in silence and letting us think about our own lives. This film especially resonated with me having been raised in LA and seeing firsthand many of the same streets, people, situations. To be heard and seen is to be known, to be known is to be loved. 10 stars for this film I hope everyone takes the time to sit down and watch!

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.

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.