Notable in that, as the title character’s health deteriorates from hospital to hospital—and, concurrently, from one collection of apathetic, even combative doctors and nurses to another—the film’s focus seems to drift to Mioara, the ambulance nurse played with quiet drive and distress by Luminita Gheorghiu. (The Los Angeles Film Critic’s Association gave their 2006 Best Supporting Actress prize to her over Jennifer Hudson, Cate Blanchett, Abigail Breslin, etc.) Mioara, always the focus of scorn and ridicule by even the lowliest of hospital staff, never leaves Lazarescu’s side. She’s devoted, intent on seeing her patient survive the night, and by the end has become his Beatrice through the repetitive circles of Romanian hospital hell. A beautiful film that, even as it ends, leaves you both fulfilled and wanting more.
by Adam Balz | Source: Tartan DVD
18 Feb 2007 2:19 PM | Submit Comment
