Portugal / 2019 / Creoles / 124 minutes / Color

A revelation in darkness, Pedro Costa (Horse Money, 39th) conjures dreamlike visions of post-colonial neglect and yearning through Vitalina Varela, a Cape Verde woman who takes us on a poignant journey through her real-life experiences. Arriving in Lisbon after her estranged husband’s funeral, she is left with nothing but his crumbling dwelling, and memories from bitter and fallen men. Costa’s empathetic portrait is a lyrical vision of somber people losing their faith in the shadows. Golden Leopard and Best Actress winner at Locarno.