Victoria

Victoria brings you out into the streets of Berlin for a wild and dangerous adventure. When a shy young cafe worker, Victoria (Laia Costa), meets a group of native Berliners, they soon develop a friendship and Victoria feels comfortable in the company of the her new male friends. As the hours tip further into morning, their friendship grows, as does the trust between her and them. When the shadowy plans of the group are revealed, a trusting Victoria’s is pulled into their disorganized plans to rob a local gangster. The clever direction of Sebastian Schipper is on display with his use of the novel “one-take” shot, and like similar more popular films, Birdman and 1917, The use of this long take makes the entire viewing a enthralling experience. (It’s reported that the single take was shot by Cinematographer Sturla Brandth Grøvlen from 4:30am to 7:00am on the streets of Berlin).

And what the Berlin streets are known for, is matched in step with the pacing of Victoria, a slow burn into debauchery and ecstasy, just before the morning bell tolls. The improvisation of the characters dialogue is sharp and in lock-step with their characters complete arch over this chaotic night. Like a hangover waiting after a long night out, the drinker, or in this case the viewer, is aware of what is probably coming once the sun comes up, but on those nights and while watching this movie, you find yourself hoping that you’re wrong. It is tense, dark, exhilarating, and sad. But if you’re a fan of heist films with a twist, films incorporating the single-take shot, or have experienced nights (albeit not to this magnitude) where things got a little out of hand, then Victoria is a good viewing option.

Directed By: Sebastian Schipper

Starring: Laia Costa, Frederick Lau

Runtime: 138 minutes Year Released: 2015