Deeper isn’t just a documentary about cave diving, it’s an intense and intimate exploration of mateship, courage, and the human drive to push beyond fear.
The film follows Dr Richard “Harry” Harris as he attempts to explore deeper into the Pearse Resurgence in New Zealand’s South Island, the world’s deepest-dived cave system. With his dive partner Dr Craig Challen along with him, Harris is determined to conquer the site after multiple years of exploration.
This journey sees him bring together a team of specialists as they experiment with equipment and alternative breathing gases that will allow Harris to dive deeper than ever before.
Director Jennifer Peedom captures the technical precision and emotional vulnerability of all the men taking part in this attempt beautifully. The cave in this film is merely a side character, with the heart of the story being about mateship.
With the echoes of their heroic Thai cave rescue still resonating deeply, this is Harris’ journey as he analyses his motivations to push further.
The film also highlights the importance of his bond with Challen to keep him grounded. Their relationship brings warmth to the tension of this dive, with moments of laughter and quiet fear revealing the deep humanity behind their bravery.
The film’s focus on safety, research and innovation, guided by diving physiologist Dr Simon Mitchell, also showcases the remarkable ingenuity of this team.
Visually, Deeper is a masterpiece of rich storytelling with its rich cinematography and the way it captures not just their words, but the intimacy in moments that speak to the depth of these relationships. It is a beautiful and inspiring film that takes us on an intense journey into the deep.
Deeper opens at Luna Palace Cinemas on Sunday, 12th October with a special premiere screening featuring a Live Q & A with Dr Richard Harris and Dr Craig Challen.