All That Breathes Review: This documentary offers a breathtaking exploration of the natural world and deserves urgent viewing

Review: While “All That Breathes” may initially be a challenging viewing experience, with the potential to make you reconsider your decision after the first few minutes, it is ultimately a hidden gem of a story about two brothers, Saud and Nadeem, aided by Salik, who have made it their mission to rescue injured kites due to the choking pollution in Delhi. This arresting documentary will keep you engaged for its roughly 90-minute duration, leaving you marveling at the exemplary work Saud, Nadeem and Salik have done in the world of bird rescue. The film also subtly touches on the NRC protests and related agitation, as well as the 2020 riots that shook the eastern part of the city, which seamlessly blend into the narrative despite having no connection with the main narrative.

The three characters who are the backbone of the documentary are captured in their rawest emotions, with the camera never taking its eyes off them. The cinematography (by Saumyananda Sahi) of the film is such that it acts as a soothing balm, despite some viewers might consider it a grim piece. In reality, it serves as a mirror to society, showing that if unchecked growth continues, the Earth may become inhospitable to life. Director Shaunak Sen has succeeded in transporting us to a world that some of us may not have even imagined existed. It is not a fancy world, but it’s a world full of struggle in an inhospitable environment where every day is a reality check. The fact that the protagonists are people we encounter in our daily lives makes the documentary all the more relatable and instantly engaging.

The documentary charts the journey of Saud, Nadeem, and Salik, who began saving birds, primarily kites, out of sheer passion. What started as a benevolent gesture towards bird welfare gradually became their life’s mission. The polluted and apocalyptic air of New Delhi burdened them with extra work as more and more birds fell prey to the city’s toxic environment. With only three men dealing with a large number of birds, it became almost impossible to rescue them and provide for their needs. Fortunately, a meager grant through FCRA enabled the three men to continue their noble work.

The documentary is rich with shots of dogs, rats, and pigs, all trying to adapt to a hostile environment that has been altered by climate change and other human-made destruction. Shaunak’s unconventional approach to documentary-making eschews traditional talking heads, instead capturing short conversations between the brothers and Salik that range from amusing to downright serious. At one point, Nadeem remarks that Delhi is a big wound and what they are doing is just putting Band-Aids on the city, which encapsulates the essence of the story.

“All That Breathes” is an uncompromising documentary that boldly challenges its viewers to witness a world they may never have imagined before. It shakes them and raises uncomfortable questions. The film is a stark depiction of nature that is both stunning and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.