Watch Stop Breathe Let Go

Stop Breathe Let Go is a heartwarming and thought-provoking drama from 2018 that tells the story of a group of strangers who cross paths at a yoga retreat in Hawaii. Starring Nikita Bates as Sarah, Nick Boyiatzis as Alex, Alicia Hann as Rachel and Aki Hirata-Baker as Natsuko, the film explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and interconnectedness in a refreshingly honest and relatable manner.

At the beginning of the film, we are introduced to Sarah, a recent divorcee who has lost her sense of purpose and direction. Seeking to escape her problems and find some peace, she decides to travel to Hawaii to attend a yoga retreat led by the charismatic and wise Guru Prakash (played by Andrew Kai). There, she meets a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and insecurities.

Alex, a workaholic businessman, is grappling with burnout and stress-induced health problems. Rachel, a young woman dealing with anxiety and depression, has just quit her job and is uncertain about her future. Natsuko, a Japanese widow, is trying to come to terms with the loss of her husband and start a new chapter in her life.

Despite their differences, the group begins to bond over their shared experiences and the teachings of Guru Prakash, who encourages them to embrace the present moment, let go of their fears and worries, and connect with their inner selves. Through a series of yoga and meditative exercises, as well as heart-to-heart conversations, the characters begin to open up and confront their inner demons.

As the retreat goes on, the characters experience both breakthroughs and setbacks, learning valuable lessons about themselves and each other. Sarah grapples with her resentment towards her ex-husband and her fear of being alone, while Alex struggles to come to terms with his mortality and the impact of his work on his relationships. Rachel confronts the root of her anxiety and learns to trust herself, while Natsuko finds solace in connecting with the natural world and the memories of her late husband.

The film is masterfully directed by Vincenzo Carubia, who captures the beauty and serenity of the Hawaiian landscape as well as the emotional depth and complexity of the characters. The performances by the lead actors are nuanced and authentic, with each character bringing a unique perspective and energy to the group dynamic.

One of the strongest aspects of Stop Breathe Let Go is its exploration of the cultural and spiritual aspects of yoga and meditation, as well as their practical applications in everyday life. The film does not shy away from the challenges and limitations of these practices, but presents them as tools for self-awareness and growth, rather than quick fixes or easy solutions.

However, the film avoids being too didactic or preachy, allowing the characters' journeys to unfold organically and leaving room for interpretation and personal reflection. The story is also rich in symbolism and metaphor, with the elements of air, water, fire, and earth serving as recurring motifs.

Overall, Stop Breathe Let Go is a moving and inspiring film that reminds us of the power of compassion, connection, and self-care. It is a rare gem in the often superficial and formulaic world of mainstream cinema, and a testament to the talent and vision of independent filmmakers.