The Man Who Copied (2003) Movie Review: A Quirky Brazilian Gem
Introduction
The Man Who Copied (O Homem que Copiava) (2003), directed by Jorge Furtado, is a Brazilian film that blends comedy, drama, and romance into a unique and captivating story. Starring Selton Mello, Mariana Ximenes, and the acclaimed Brazilian actor, Pedro Cardoso, the film offers a quirky and imaginative exploration of the life of a lowly copier technician who dreams of a better life. This review will delve into the film’s plot, performances, direction, and impact, while providing information on where to stream or purchase The Man Who Copied in America.
Plot Overview
The Man Who Copied follows the story of André (Selton Mello), a copier technician working in a small print shop in Porto Alegre, Brazil. André leads a monotonous life, finding solace in his routine and his love for a young woman named Sônia (Mariana Ximenes), who works at a nearby store. Despite his mundane existence, André dreams of a better life and devises a plan to improve his circumstances.
His plan involves counterfeiting money, a scheme that quickly spirals out of control and entangles him in a series of comedic and dramatic events. The film’s narrative explores themes of aspiration, crime, and the search for meaning in a seemingly ordinary life, all while providing a humorous and insightful look at André’s struggles and dreams.
Performances and Direction
Selton Mello delivers a standout performance as André, capturing the character’s blend of ordinariness and aspiration with depth and charm. Mello’s portrayal of André’s transformation from a small-time dreamer to a man caught in a complex web of deception is both engaging and relatable.
Mariana Ximenes brings warmth and sincerity to her role as Sônia, providing a strong romantic counterpart to Mello’s character. Her performance adds emotional depth to the film and enhances the romantic subplot.
Pedro Cardoso, known for his versatile acting, adds a layer of complexity to the film with his role. His presence enriches the story and contributes to its multifaceted exploration of character and plot.
Director Jorge Furtado skillfully blends comedy with drama, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Furtado’s direction ensures that the film’s humor is well-balanced with its more serious themes, providing a cohesive and engaging viewing experience.
Cinematography and Visual Style
The cinematography, by José Roberto Elia, captures the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of Porto Alegre, contributing to the film’s authenticity. The visual style complements the film’s tone, focusing on the everyday environments of the characters and enhancing the narrative’s emotional impact.
The production design effectively portrays the various settings, from the cramped print shop to the colorful streets of the city, adding to the film’s overall atmosphere and relatability. The attention to detail in depicting Brazilian urban life adds depth to the film’s setting and story.
Music and Sound
The film’s score features a mix of lively and evocative compositions that complement the film’s comedic and dramatic moments. The music enhances the film’s mood and contributes to its overall impact, adding to the viewer’s engagement.
The sound design, including the use of music and sound effects, supports the film’s storytelling and character development, creating an immersive experience that enhances the film’s emotional and comedic elements.
Themes and Impact
The Man Who Copied explores themes of aspiration, crime, and the search for meaning with a unique and humorous approach. The film’s portrayal of André’s journey from a small-time copier technician to a man caught in a web of counterfeiting provides a thought-provoking look at the complexities of personal ambition and the consequences of pursuing one’s dreams.
The film’s success in blending comedy with drama highlights its appeal as a quirky and engaging exploration of life’s challenges and aspirations. The Man Who Copied remains a noteworthy entry in Brazilian cinema for its inventive storytelling and its exploration of universal themes through a distinctive lens.
Streaming and Rental/Purchase Options in America
For those interested in experiencing or revisiting this Brazilian gem, The Man Who Copied is available on various streaming platforms in America:
- Amazon Prime Video: Check for rental or purchase options in both SD and HD formats.
- iTunes/Apple TV: Offers the film for purchase or rental, with options for SD and HD viewing.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase in multiple formats.
- Vudu: Users can rent or buy the film, with options for different video qualities.
- YouTube Movies: Provides rental and purchase options, allowing for easy access across devices.
Conclusion
The Man Who Copied (2003) is a delightful and imaginative Brazilian film that combines comedy, drama, and romance into a unique and engaging story. Directed with creativity by Jorge Furtado and featuring standout performances by Selton Mello, Mariana Ximenes, and Pedro Cardoso, the film offers a quirky and thought-provoking exploration of life’s complexities. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting it, The Man Who Copied remains a must-watch for its inventive storytelling and its insightful look at human aspiration and the pursuit of dreams. Stream or purchase this captivating film today and enjoy its charming and humorous take on the human condition.
