The film Apollo 13 taught me how to survive heartbreak
The writer reflects on how Apollo 13 became a source of comfort after their engagement ended abruptly in 2025, shortly before a performance in Sydney. Rather than offering romantic catharsis, the film’s depiction of astronauts and engineers responding calmly to disaster helped them view survival itself as an achievement: sometimes success simply means getting home.
They identify most strongly with Mission Control, whose teamwork, practical thinking and reliance on facts represent qualities they value. While continuing demanding touring and Edinburgh Fringe work, the writer relied on friends and family as their own “Mission Control”, providing food, transport, reassurance and emotional support while they managed day by day.
- Apollo 13 helped the writer endure a painful breakup.
- Survival, not perfection, became the measure of success.
- Friends and family provided vital practical support.
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