The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)

“I decided to stop pitying myself. Other than my eye, two things aren’t paralyzed, my imagination and my memory.” – Jean-Dominique Bauby

Number of Times Seen – 1 (1 Aug 2018)

Brief Synopsis – Based on the true story of a fashion editor who was almost completely paralyzed by a stroke yet still found a way to communicate and continue with his life.

My Take on it – This is a film that will grab you right from the opening moments and not let go until it’s over.

The idea to show the first half of this film solely from the visual and mental perspective of a paralyzed man is amazing and it gives us the opportunity to see something that most people never are able to experience.

I must admit that when that part of the film ends, I was a  bit sad because I had hoped that the entire film was shot that way.

We learn so much about the character and his life during that first half which helps us sympathize with him more yet also allows us to get a better understanding of what he must endure also.

The narration in this kind of situation is essential and it is done really well.

The acting is also superb and adds another level to the way that we should perceive people with such afflictions.

The second half of the film is also quite poignant and it allows us to see things from another viewpoint that adds different emotions about the entire situation presented.

The direction of this film is amazing and Julian Schnabel was very deserving of an Oscar nomination for such a unique and enjoyable film.

Bottom Line – The first half of this film is amazing because it gives us the perspective of a paralyzed man as we get to see his viewpoint both visually and mentally as he tries to come to terms with his new way of life. The narration is obviously essential to the story but the acting is also beautiful to watch. The second half of the film is almost as poignant as the first and we get to see things from an even more different viewpoint during that part. The direction is amazingly done and Schnabel was very deserving of an Oscar nomination for this work. Highly Recommended!

MovieRob’s Favorite Trivia – To familiarize himself with Bauby’s sheltered existence, director Julian Schnabel made the movie in the same hospital where Bauby was treated, meeting many of the orderlies who had treated him. He also shot scenes on the same balcony where Bauby relaxed, and on the same nearby beach his family took him to. (From IMDB)

Rating – Globe Worthy (8/10)

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