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The
Diving Bell and the Butterfly is
based on the world famous memoir of the same name written by former
editor in chief of Elle Magazine Jean Dominique-Bauby (Mathieu Amalric),
who after a massive stroke suffered from a rare condition called
"Locked-In Syndrome", which left him completely paralysed
and mute, yet his brain functioning normally. With the help of his
speech therapist Henriete (Marie-Jose Cruz) a system was established
where Bauby was able to communicate with his left eye, eventually
writing a book based on his condition and past experiences.
Artist and some time director Julian Schnabel (whose only directorial
credits are Basquiat and Before Night Falls),
has taken an innovative and unique approach to Bauby's story. The
majority of the film is shown through Bauby's point of view, as
the viewer shares his frustrations and struggles whilst he is trapped
in his own body. Long time Spielberg cinematographer Janusz Kaminski
provides Schnabel with vivid and emotive images, whilst Mathieu
Amalric delivers a stunning lead performance.
Obviously, with such emotionally packed material come a number of
loaded questions and observations, namely: What constitutes as life?
And, if faced with a life of total immobility through paralysis,
would life be worth living?
Also, Bauby's unintentional flirtations with God and religion make
for compelling viewing. This is not a man who believes in miracles,
and he does not expect one to happen either. Such a cynical world
view can make for depressing viewing, yet only when he snaps out
of his (understandable) self pity does Bauby's true nature and purpose
come through, as he relies on his imagination and memories to help
him through his ordeal, whilst also touching the heart and soul
of those around him, those who have read his book, and those of
us who have watched this film.
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