Quartile rating: 7.5/10 · 1 rating
A young photocopier operator becomes infatuated with his neighbor and, unable to afford anything from her shop, turns to shady schemes to make money.
'The Man Who Copied' is a distinctly Brazilian gem from Jorge Furtado that blends deadpan comedy, social commentary on economic inequality, and romantic longing into a singular voice. The film's novelty is its greatest strength — its quirky, self-aware narration and Porto Alegre setting give it an unmistakable personality rarely found in Latin American cinema of its era. The plot is charming and cleverly constructed, escalating from innocent obsession into crime with a light touch, though it occasionally feels contrived. Acting is naturalistic and appealing without being exceptional. Cinematography is competent and occasionally inventive but rarely transcendent. The ending wraps things up satisfyingly if somewhat conveniently, landing as feel-good rather than truly resonant.