WELCOME

Shortness of Breath is the first feature film project for director Zachary Lee and Roadside Pictures. It is the story of Michael and Patricia, lovers on the run from the law. Michael is a thief-a petty crook who fancies himself a smooth criminal. He passes the time by stealing cars, flirting with women, shoplifting and smoking French cigarettes. Each incident, indistinguishable from the last, blends into Michael's aimless existence.

Patricia is a struggling actress. She is an intelligent and resourceful woman, slightly more ambitious than Michael, though a drifter and outsider as well. When Michael shows up at her apartment, their on again/off again relationship resumes until a quick cigarette run to a convenience store ends in a robbery. Though their involvement in the incident is unclear, they decide to go on the lam.

Fleeing the city, Michael and Patricia hole up in a run-down motel room. The novelty and excitement of their situation slowly sours as their constant seclusion wears on them, especially Patricia. As tensions mount, Patricia becomes less and less enamored by Michael's games. She leaves. Alone, Michael is forced to re-examine his life and acknowledge his feelings for Patricia.