Vitória: Andrucha Waddington’s film tells the story, inspired by real-life events, of an elderly lady who, tired and afraid of the drug traffickers who make their lair just outside her window, records their dealings and crimes with a VHS camera. It is a public story, and while the film telegraphs its ending and avoids any surprises or narrative twists, it tells its tale efficiently and without undue embellishments. Naturally, being anchored by Fernanda Montenegro’s wonderful performance helps: the protagonist is frail but strong-willed, and Montenegro’s control of her voice and face makes sure every single atom of emotion is projected, without it ever feeling too “actorly”. Alan Rocha, as a journalist who takes an interest in her plight, and Linn da Quebrada, as a neighbour, are both quite good in their supporting roles. Cinematographer Lula Cerri uses a tight, claustrophobic framing: the story IS the protagonist, and the visual choice reinforces the idea. Editor Sérgio Mekler gives the film a good pace, thrilling at the right moments.