Still Breathing

Still Breathing is a captivating romantic fantasy film delivered with a touch of magical realism, released in 1997, directed and written by the gifted James F. Robinson. The movie stars Brendan Fraser, renowned for his roles in The Mummy series, and Joanna Going, an actress with an impressive range.

Brendan Fraser portrays the character of Fletcher McBracken, a street performing puppeteer residing in San Antonio, Texas. He comes from an eccentric lineage of men who experience highly detailed visions that foretell their true love's arrival. Whilst performing his puppet act, Fletcher experiences one such vivid vision of a mysterious woman. Guided by fate, he decides to pursue his predestined love, thousands of miles away in Los Angeles.

Joanna Going plays the role of the enigmatic woman in Fletcher's vision – Rosalyn Willoughby. She is a professional con artist, frequently seducing wealthy men to part with their riches. A expert in the art of manipulation, she is far more hard-edged and cynical than the naive, romantic Texan who seeks her out based on a vision from his daydream. When these two worlds collide, there's a delightful clash of cultures, lifestyles and perspective of life, which makes for an intriguing narrative.

Lou Rawls also graces the film with his presence, playing the character of Tree, a wise bartender with a philosophical outlook on life and a first-hand spectator to the captivating rollercoaster ride of the duo's relationship.

The narrative of Still Breathing bridges the gap between romantic drama and fantasy, spinning a tale about destiny and love that is all at once enchanting and entertaining. Despite its touch of magical realism – a romantic vision that magically comes true, the film does a tremendous job to remain grounded in reality. The characters are well-rounded, placing this movie far from the numerous cliché romances.

Brendan Fraser's portrayal of Fletcher McBracken is genuinely heartfelt. He breathes life into his character, expresses innocence and childlike sincerity that's perfectly fitting of an eccentric romantic from Texas. Amongst all the disbelief and skepticism, Fletcher’s unyielding faith in his visions provides a stark contrast to the logical, practical world around him.

Joanna Going delivers Rosalyn’s character with an equal amount of conviction. Armed with sophistication and an entrancing charm that could lure any man into her web of deceit, she puts up a hardened exterior, hiding her vulnerabilities buried deep within. As the film advances, Rosalyn’s character experiences large growth in terms of personal journey which adds to her overall depth.

The film beautifully uses the cities of San Antonio and Los Angeles as backdrops, each accentuating the vast differences between the two main characters. San Antonio's slow-paced, laid-back lifestyle is creatively juxtaposed with the glitz, glamor and hustle-bustle of Los Angeles. These stark contrasts not only offer an appealing visual experience but also serve to enhance the narrative in meaningful ways.

The film's music is another highlight, effortlessly blending into the narrative and effectively capturing the spirit of both Texas and Los Angeles. The compositions ranging from country music to blues, contribute significantly towards the overall ambiance of the film providing it with a heartbeat of its own.

Still Breathing displays writer-director Robinson's unique cinematic vision and his ability to narrate a heartwarming tale with an unusual twist. From the remarkable performances of its leading stars to the meticulously detailed cinematic elements, this film serves as an absorbing tale of destiny, romance, and the unexpected turns life can take.

In conclusion, Still Breathing is a romantic drama that beautifully intertwines realism with elements of fantasy. The tale unfolds as a unique love story filled with twists and turns, making it an enjoyable watch for those who find comfort in the love genre and for those looking for a film with a distinctive narrative structure. It encapsulates a remarkable journey of love, destiny, and the transient nature of life, wrapped up in a beautiful cinematic package. A true gem for any movie enthusiast seeking a tale that's different from the usual Hollywood romantic fare.