Testemunhas Contra a Máfia

I recently saw this film at a student-only screening at the Vancouver Film School. All in all, a fine little film. Mira shines, Mariah is great, and Melora pulls off one the biggest surprises I've seen in ages. The direction is strong, as is the script, with several genuine plot surprises to keep the action going. Also of note is the supporting cast of Italian "heavies", who alternate between cool charm and outright scary. Weaker points include a very slow beginning, and a somewhat implausible scene in which Mira, at gunpoint, is forced to do something criminal that stretches logic. Also, the music in this film is terrible and really detracts from the viewing experience. Still, these are minor caveats for an otherwise surprisingly serious and touching film. With a title like WISEGIRLS, I was expecting a comedy. Score this one 8/10.