The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is based on the world famous memoir of the same name written by former editor in chief of Elle Magazine, Jean Dominique-Bauby (Mathieu Amalric) who after a massive stroke suffered from a rare condition called “Locked-In Syndrome”, which left him completely paralysed and mute, yet his brain functioning normally.

With the help of his speech therapist Henriete (Marie-Jose Cruz) a system was established where Bauby was able to communicate with his left eye, eventually writing a book based on his condition and past experiences.

Artist and some time director Julian Schnabel (whose directorial credits are Basquiat and Before Night Falls), has taken an innovative and unique approach to Bauby’s story. The majority of the film is shown through Bauby’s point of view, as the viewer shares his frustrations and struggles whilst he is trapped in his own body. Long time Steven Spielberg cinematographer Janusz Kaminski provides Schnabel with vivid and emotive images, whilst Mathieu Amalric delivers a stunning lead performance.

Obviously, with such emotionally packed material come a number of loaded questions and observations, namely: What constitutes as life? And, if faced with a life of total immobility through paralysis, would life be worth living?

Also, Bauby’s unintentional flirtations with God and religion make for compelling viewing. This is not a man who believes in miracles, and he does not expect one to happen either.

Such a cynical world view can make for depressing viewing, yet only when he snaps out of his (understandable) self pity does Bauby’s true nature and purpose come through, as he relies on his imagination and memories to help him through his ordeal, whilst also touching the heart and soul of those around him, those who have read his book, and those of us who have watched this film.