OTC Rating : 4.5/5
Introduction
Sebastian Schipper’s Victoria, now streaming on MUBI, is a remarkable cinematic feat—a 138-minute film captured in one seamless shot. This intense thriller blends romance, heist, and drama into a breathtaking real-time experience, immersing the audience in the chaotic and unpredictable night of its protagonist. With remarkable cinematography, naturalistic performances, and a pulsating soundtrack, Victoria is a masterclass in technical filmmaking and raw storytelling.
Story & Narrative Structure
The film follows Victoria (Laia Costa), a young Spanish woman living in Berlin. One fateful night, she meets a group of friendly but reckless men—Sonne (Frederick Lau), Boxer (Franz Rogowski), Blinker (Burak Yigit), and Fuß (Max Mauff). What starts as a carefree, drunken adventure quickly spirals into a tense, high-stakes crime drama when she gets entangled in their dangerous plan.
Schipper’s decision to tell the story in real-time, without cuts, heightens the immersion. The film seamlessly transitions from flirtation and fun to anxiety and desperation, making every moment feel urgent and real. There is no room for re-dos or artificial pacing—everything unfolds organically, mirroring life itself.
Image credit : IMDB
Direction & Cinematography
Sebastian Schipper’s directorial vision is daring and ambitious. Choosing to shoot the entire film in a single take was a monumental risk, but it pays off spectacularly. The real-time storytelling creates an unparalleled sense of immediacy, as the audience follows Victoria without interruption.
Sturla Brandth Grøvlen’s cinematography is a marvel. Handheld yet controlled, the camera fluidly moves through the streets, clubs, rooftops, and apartments of Berlin, never losing its grip on the action or emotion. The cinematographer’s ability to adapt to changing lighting conditions and unpredictable movements showcases an exceptional level of skill and coordination.
Performances
Laia Costa delivers a mesmerizing performance as Victoria. She carries the film with remarkable authenticity, portraying a character whose transformation from wide-eyed curiosity to sheer desperation feels heartbreakingly real. Her chemistry with Frederick Lau’s Sonne adds depth to the film’s emotional core, making their bond feel both genuine and tragic.
Frederick Lau, Franz Rogowski, and the supporting cast also shine. Their raw, unscripted dialogue and spontaneous interactions contribute to the film’s realism, making the viewer feel like an invisible participant in their journey.
Image credit : IMDB
Production & Art Design
The production design leans heavily on the natural urban environment of Berlin. The film makes excellent use of real locations—dimly lit clubs, empty streets, and rooftop hideaways—giving it an authentic and lived-in feel. There are no extravagant set pieces; the city itself serves as both a playground and a battleground, reflecting the unpredictability of the night’s events.
The art direction is minimalistic but effective, enhancing the film’s grounded approach. Every location feels raw and unfiltered, further strengthening the documentary-like realism.
Sound Design & Music
Sound plays a crucial role in Victoria, adding to the immersive experience. The bustling streets, muffled conversations, and distant sirens make the city feel alive and unpredictable. The soundscape shifts with Victoria’s journey—from the pulsing club music to the eerie silence of impending danger.
Nils Frahm’s electronic score complements the film perfectly. The music subtly builds tension without overpowering the scenes, making the shifts from euphoria to terror feel seamless. The minimal yet haunting piano pieces underscore the film’s emotional weight, particularly in its quieter moments.
Image credit : IMDB
Editing
There is no conventional editing in Victoria since the film was shot in a single take. This technique eliminates the ability to manipulate time through cuts, forcing the story to unfold naturally. The absence of edits enhances the tension, as there is no escape from the unfolding chaos.
The real challenge was in choreography and camera blocking. The film’s fluidity and pacing are achieved through meticulous planning and precise execution rather than post-production manipulation.
Final Verdict
Victoria is a remarkable feat of filmmaking—a thrilling, emotionally charged, and technically astonishing experience. Sebastian Schipper and his team have crafted a film that feels both innovative and deeply human. Laia Costa’s outstanding performance, combined with the breathtaking cinematography and immersive storytelling, makes Victoria a must-watch for cinephiles.
Why Watch It
- A groundbreaking single-take film that redefines cinematic immersion.
- Raw, naturalistic performances that heighten emotional impact.
- A gripping mix of romance, crime, and suspense set against the backdrop of Berlin.
