George Ilutsik_Benjamin Hilton_Central Station

Central Station: Film Review

            If you thought you know what goes on in a Brazilian train station, then think again.

“Central Station” takes you on the journey of Josué (played by Vinícius de Oliveira) and Mrs. Dora (Fernanda Montenegro) as they face the malignant terrain of Brazil.

Dora is a dilapidated former school teacher who now writes letters for the illiterate in Rio de Janeiro’s railroad station.   She then takes them with her, not to mail, but to read them with her neighbor and leave them in her drawer of purgatory.  Dora is visited by a woman and her child Josué.  Josué’s mother has a heartfelt letter written to the boy’s father, but she is killed shortly after by a bus.  Now the orphaned Josué spends his time in the train station alone not knowing anyone in Rio.   Dora decides to aid Josue’ on his mission to be united with his father.

             The film protrudes such believable characters in seemingly real life situations.  Salles is able to show two separate personalities going through the same emotional journey.  Josué in search of his father, finds a place he call home.  Dora, trying to help Josué, finds happiness and resolve.  
             Fernanda Montenegro’s acting was exceptional.   She was nominated for an Academy award for best actress in a lead role.  This is just one reason why the film protrudes such believable characters in seemingly real life situations.   It puts us directly in the emotion turmoil in the main characters.
            The cinematography of the film was extravagant.  The combination of camera placement and picturesque scenery adds to the beauty of the film.  The vast dry terrain that is of Brazil helps to constantly remind the audience of the bleak and sometimes impossibility of the journey they have ventured upon. 

            With convincing characters and an convicting story, “Central Station” earns a spot in the corner of my heart.  Though the film can run dry in places, it is an eye opening movie.  It took me on a journey from the harshness of the 3rd world street life of Brazil to the peaceful, realistic rest stops in the Brazilian desert.