'Breathe' is a biopic based on the life of Robin Cavendish. He contracted polio when he was 28 years old and was left paralyzed from the neck down. Directed by Andy Serkis, the movie is to be his first directorial debut. Serkis is known for his acting in 'The Lord of the Rings' and other movies. The film was produced by Jonathan Cavendish, son of Robin and Diana.
Based on a true story
'Breathe' tells the story of disability advocate Robin Cavendish who contracted polio when he was 28 years old. Cavendish was a very adventurous character. However, in 1958 he was left paralyzed from the neck down.
He was given only 3 months to live when he was initially diagnosed and he fought to be released from the hospital with his pregnant wife. Cavendish would go on to defy the odds and become one of the world's most inspirational disability advocates. He was the longest living polio survivor in the history of Great Britain.
Cavendish went on to become the creator of the very first wheelchair with a built-in respirator. With the help of his friend and university professor Teddy Hall, the invention was a success. He also went on to create more technology to aid people who suffer from disabilities similar to his own. Not only was Robin Cavendish famous for these innovative ideas, but he also campaigned heavily for People With Disabilities to be integrated into society.
Over his lifetime Cavendish and his wife traveled widely around Europe. They taught people about what it was like to live with disabilities and they even founded a holiday destination where people with disabilities could go on vacation with their families. Cavendish died at the age of 64 and has left behind an inspiring legacy.
Andrew Garfield takes on the role of Robin Cavendish
Actor Andrew Garfield, best known for his work in the 'Spider-man' movies, will be playing Robin Cavendish in the movie adaptation of his life. Claire Foy takes on the role of Diana Cavendish, Robin's wife. Garfield and Foy give emotionally charged performances which are sure to deeply touch the audiences.
The family element to the movie is gripping as we will see Robin coming to terms with his disability as a result of his wife's and his son's love. 'Breathe' is a wonderful tribute to the life of Robin Cavendish. It will certainly continue to raise awareness of the struggles people face when living with a disability.
Other casting includes Dean Charles Chapman, Tom Holland, Miranda Raison and Hugh Bonneville. 'Breathe' has been given the release date of October 27. The surviving Cavendish family has played a huge role in the production of the movie.
