Breaking Away is a 1979 American coming of age comedy-drama film produced and directed by Peter Yates and written by Steve Tesich. It follows a group of four male teenagers in Bloomington, Indiana, who have recently graduated from high school. The film stars Dennis Christopher, Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern, Jackie Earle Haley, Barbara Barrie, Paul Dooley, and Robyn Douglass.

Peter James Yates was an English film director and producer, known for his versatility and “attention to detail” across a variety of genres. He received nominations for four Academy Awards, three BAFTA Awards, and two Golden Globe Awards.