The challenges facing a nurse on a busy night shift are the subject of a new film currently showing in independent cinemas.
The newly produced hospital drama, Late Shift, depicts a powerful portrait of modern nursing, following one nurse’s battle against time.
“Petra Volpe’s tense drama is a shot in the arm of undiluted empathy for the over-stretched, undervalued nursing profession”
Fionnuala Halligan
The film, otherwise known by its Swiss name, Heldin (Heroine), is directed and scripted by Swiss-Italian director Petra Volpe.
It features a German-born actress, Leonie Benesch, and began shooting at the end of January 2024 in Switzerland. The film was released earlier this month on 1 August.
The film explores the journey of Floria, a hardworking nurse, who navigates the hectic pace on a surgical ward.
It shows her patience, empathy and professionalism remaining consistent in her care, despite the shift being understaffed.
The timely piece demonstrates the difficult reality of the nursing profession, where changes are often unexpected.
Despite the immense pressure, Floria attends to a deeply ill mother and an elderly man. As the day passes, Heldin is shown racing the clock, ending in a captivating climax.
By blending sensitivity with a human touch, the film explores the many challenges faced by nurses and showcases their relentless dedication and compassion toward all individuals.
Fionnuala Halligan, from Screen International, said: “Petra Volpe’s tense drama is a shot in the arm of undiluted empathy for the over-stretched, undervalued nursing profession.”
Ms Volpe is also known for her Tribeca Audience Award-winning feature The Divine Order (2017), which was selected as the Swiss entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards.
The film is Ms Volpe’s third collaboration with cinematographer and writer Judith Kaufmann, the latter serving as cinematographer on the film.
The film was produced by Reto Schaerli and Lukas Hobi from Zodiac Pictures, in co-production with MMC Zodiac, Swiss Radio and Television, and SRG SSR.
It was supported by the Federal Office of Culture, Zürcher Filmstiftung, German Federal Film Board, Suissimage, and the cantons of Aargau and Lucerne.
Managing director of TrustNordisk, Susan Wendt, said: “We are thrilled to be reunited with Petra Volpe and the Zodiac team on this strong and captivating project.”
Screenshot from the film Late Shift
Promotional poster for Late Shift
