David Farnor | On 10, Dec 2022

Netflix has snapped up freediving documentary The Deepest Breath ahead of its premiere at Sundance in January 2023.

The film, which was produced by A24, Motive Films, Ventureland and Raw, explores the connection forged between two athletes as they navigate the vigorous and competitive world of freediving.

Directed by Laura McGann, it follows a champion freediver who trains to break a world record with the help of an expert safety diver, and the two form an emotional bond that feels like fate. It charts the paths they took to meet at the pinnacle of the freediving world, documenting the thrilling rewards – and inescapable risks – of chasing a dream through the silent depths of the ocean.

McGann is a documentary filmmaker from Ireland who has helmed numerous documentary projects for RTE, SKY, PBS, BBC, Lonely Planet and UTV.

She says: “The setting and emotional power of this story is what initially drew me into wanting to make this documentary. Filming around the world and with the remarkable subjects at the heart of The Deepest Breath has been the most inspirational and rewarding experience of my career. The entire team is delighted to be partnering with Netflix to share what we believe is a fitting tribute to the exceptional world of freediving and the fearless athletes in our film.”

The film is produced by John Battsek, Sarah Thomson, Jamie D’Alton and Anne McLoughlin, and exec-produced by Bart Layton and A24.

Netflix has previously collaborated with Battsek and Ventureland on the documentary series FIFA Uncovered, the film Rising Phoenix, and its David Beckham docu-series.

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