(BRAZIL)
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STREET - Marcos Bernstein

Bernstein, co-writer of Central Station, has created a compelling noir character study featuring the star of Central Station, Fernanda Montenegro. Montenegro plays Regina, a retired woman who strolls around Copacabana with her little dog and passes information to the police, sure that her actions will help to improve life in the neighborhood. One day, Regina sees—or thinks that she sees—her neighbor, a prominent judge, killing his wife. The police tell her she misinterpreted the situation, which only sets Regina in search of evidence. When the judge meets her on the street, what she thinks changes the course of both their lives, as they are forced to confront the truth. The searing cinematography of Toca Seabra creates a noir atmosphere that embodies the loneliness of Regina and the isolation of the characters. Playing opposite Montenegro are noteworthy performances from Laura Cardoso, Regina’s friend and fellow informer; and the Brazilian soap opera star, the stately Raul Cortez, as the judge. Bernstein’s savvy direction causes time to shrink, pulsate and practically melt when watching his film. (1:38:00) Print courtesy of Strand Releasing.

Filmography: Screenwriter, Foreign Land (96), Central Station (98), Oriundi (99).

Showtimes:
15-02-2005 | 5.45PM | B2
16-02-2005 | 6PM | GU

THE MAN WHO COPIED -
Jorge Furtado

A sweetly quirky work of magic realism that tells a story of love, art, robbery and photocopying. André is a bored copy machine operator in the small town of Porto Alegre who leaves work every night to return home and draw comic book art, where his artistic fantasies transport him to a perfect world where he has a beautiful wife and lots of money. He also peeps out his bedroom window into the home of Sílvia, an 18-year-old clothing store salesgirl who lives with her father. At first André simply fantasizes about the pretty Sylvia, until he witnesses something terrible which forces him to act. Accompanied by his co-worker Marinês and her boyfriend Cardosa, André schemes to save Silvia and become rich acting out his artistic fantasies. Furtado’s fanciful blend of fantasy and comedy creates a distinctive cinematic vision that is propelled by a lively Brazilian soundtrack and a first-class ensemble cast. (2:04:00) Print courtesy of TLA Releasing.

Filmography: Barbosa (88), This Is Not Your Life (91), Two Summers (03).

Showtimes:
17-02-2005 | 8.30PM | B1
18-02-2005 | 9.15PM | WH
20-02-2005 | 4.15PM | B1