Victoria

"Victoria" is an electrifying and daring crime movie that redefines the possibilities of cinematic storytelling through its audacious one-take approach. Helmed by director Sebastian Schipper and released in 2015, it immediately grips viewers from its opening scene and propels them on an exhilarating, heart-pounding journey through the vibrant streets of Berlin.

At the heart of the narrative is Victoria, portrayed by the captivating Laia Costa, a young Spanish woman who unwittingly becomes entangled in the treacherous world of crime following an unexpected encounter with a group of local men. As the night unfolds, Victoria finds herself embroiled in a high-stakes heist that pushes the limits of her loyalty, courage, and survival instincts. Costa's mesmerizing performance effortlessly carries the weight of the entire film, capturing the character's vulnerability, unyielding determination, and harrowing descent into a night of unrelenting chaos.

Sebastian Schipper's direction is extraordinary, elevating "Victoria" to the realm of cinematic mastery. Filmed in one continuous take lasting over two hours, the movie immerses viewers in the raw intensity and unpredictability of the characters' experiences. The fluidity of the camera movements and seamless transitions between locations create a palpable sense of immediacy, erasing the boundaries between the audience and the unfolding events. Schipper's bold decision to shoot the film in real-time amplifies the authenticity and rawness of the story, ensnaring viewers in a state of unyielding suspense that keeps them teetering on the edge of their seats.

Release: 2015

Stars: Laia Costa, Frederick Lau, Franz Rogowski

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%