Breathing

The action covers roughly two weeks in a contemporary Austrian setting, leading up to a parole hearing. It follows Roman through a modern juvenile justice system and a mechanized mortuary operation. The time frame emphasizes routine, surveillance, and the slow opening of emotional barriers.

The film unfolds in modern Vienna, anchored by its austere detention facilities and the large mortuary where Roman works. It contrasts the clinical, routine rhythms of a city institution with intimate, emotional moments. Key locations include the juvenile detention center, the funeral home, and everyday urban spaces like an IKEA store where a reunion with his mother occurs.

🌱 Self-Discovery

The story centers on Roman's slow emotional awakening as he learns the demanding mortuary job. Sparse dialogue and subtle facial cues trace his movement from isolation toward gradual empathy. Small, everyday events begin unlocking interest in his past and in forming connections with others.

⚰️ Mortality

Death shadows Roman as he handles corpses and confronts the fragility of life. The mortuary setting forces him to face decay, vulnerability, and his own possible future. Through exposure to death, he assesses his capacity for feeling and change.

🪞 Mother Memory

Roman's reunion with his mother and her revelation about abandoning him bring memory and guilt to the surface. Their confrontation probes themes of forgiveness, identity, and what family means. The memory of his mother influences present choices and the longing for connection.