DVD Review
Title: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
PathéRenn Productions (France/USA)
Director: Julian Schnabel
Principal Actors: Mathieu Amalric, Emmanuelle Seigner, Marie-JoséeCroze, AnneConsigny
Length: 112 min
Language: French with English subtitles
Rating: PG-13

4 ½ Stars

Reviewed By: Colette Gunson (Vancouver Correspondent - Canada)

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly reaffirms the power of the imagination and reminds us to appreciate the simple pleasures in life. It is the true story of Elle editor, Jean-Dominique Bauby; who, at the prime of his life, learns to live with ‘locked-in syndrome' after suffering a serious stroke. This rare condition makes Jean-Dominique a prisoner in his own body. His mind and sense of hearing function normally, yet he is unable to speak and is paralyzed completely except for his left eye. His only means of communicating is to spell out sentences one letter at a time by blinking as his translator recites the letters of the alphabet. The film is based on the book of the same name, painstakingly written by Bauby one blink at a time.

Set in France, the story begins as Bauby wakes up from a three week coma. Disoriented and confused, he slowly becomes aware of his new circumstances. Breathtaking cinematography and inventive camera angles allow viewers to see the world from Bauby's point of view. The film is narrated by Bauby's internal monologue giving audiences the rare opportunity to witness the frustrations and emotional struggles that Bauby must silently endure.

Memories, in the form of flashbacks, help to paint a picture of the exuberant life he was forced to leave behind. Although his story is tragic, Bauby's inner strength and sense of humor encourage audiences to feel compassion rather than pity. The challenges he faces are incredible, yet Bauby is able to use his mind to transport himself to places and people he no longer can visit.

The winner of several awards, including Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival for Julian Schnabel, the film is a cinematic feat. A heartwarming epic journey into the heart and mind of an incredible individual, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly will have you holding your loved ones a bit closer, truly appreciating the taste and feel of your next meal and perhaps even adding a little hop to your step . . . just because you can.