An entirely ordinary day on the beds ward of a surgical department. The nursing team is understaffed due to a shortage of personnel. Despite the hectic environment, Floria cares for her patients with expertise and full dedication. Although she gives her all, the shift gradually spirals out of control - until it eventually leads to a dramatic outburst.
The Garden Cinema View:
In Petra Volpe's experienced hands, what might have been a dry meditation on the global medical crisis transforms into an understated cinematic feast. Presented as a single, unbroken shot (reminiscent of Adolescence or Victoria), the film has impeccable craft and rhythm.
A real strength of Late Shift lies in Leonie Benesch's (The Teachers' Lounge) performance - a brilliant display of minimalism and truth that perfectly captures a misfunctioning system. In this portrayal, we observe the unappreciated work of medical staff trapped in understaffed hospitals, enduring never-ending shifts that push human endurance to its limits.
This is filmmaking of remarkable precision - a powerful achievement that lets the gravity of its subject matter speak without flourish or directorial vanity.
