Breathing Lessons: The Life and Work of Mark O'Brien

About This Movie

Breathing Lessons: The Life and Work of Mark O'Brien is an intimate look at a remarkable man. Directed by Jessica Yu, it really captures the essence of Mark's life in Berkeley, using his own words and thoughts to guide us. The film's tone feels both raw and reflective, creating this delicate balance between his struggles and his triumphs as a journalist and poet. There's a certain pacing to it that allows you to absorb his journey—how he navigated life with a disability, relying on an iron lung. The practical effects, while subtle, enhance the realism of his world. You can feel the weight of his experience without it being overly sentimental. It's a thoughtful piece that lingers in your mind long after it ends.

Directed by Jessica YuFocus on Mark O'Brien's life and poetryExplores disability and resilience