Between Breath & Silence

Directed by Nicole Pott

2026

Empty space is ever present in this quietly emotional short film. The space where loved ones used to be; the silence when the beeps of the hospital equipment are stopped so that the doctor can speak; the things that were never said.

Written, produced and starring Tom Sargeant, and based on his own experiences with grief, the film follows a family as they deal with the terminal cancer diagnosis of the father, Paul (Graeme Hawley). Sargeant plays Tom, whose strained relationship with his father, as well as his brother, Ryan (Sam Retford), and mother, Sandra (Angela Lonsdale), provides an additional layer to the already heavy situation.

All the performances are excellent. Emotions are heightened but the film never slips into melodrama, as it so easily could. Part of the reason for this is Sargeant’s restrained script, which gives the big moments room to breathe. When a fight nearly breaks out between Tom and Ryan, the presence of their ill father causes them to fall silent. It’s not the place for grievances to be aired, nor is this the sort of film that needs an explosive scene to add drama.

Director Nicole Pott and cinematographer Paul Mortlock match this restraint, with clean, simple shots. The film looks wonderful, with the use of lighting and shadow helping to portray what each character is feeling, even when there is no dialogue.

Between Breath & Silence isn’t an easy watch, but it's beautifully realised. A grounded exploration of family dynamics and grief, as well as a wonderful showcase for the work that palliative care nurses do day-in, day-out, whether they are from charities such as Dougie Mac, which supported the making of the film, or from one of the many services across the UK.

It’s a film about appreciating those around you – family by blood or other means – and saying what needs to be said when the chance is there. Even if the words never quite feel right.

★★★★½

4.5 / 5

Matthew Tilt

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