Late Shift – REVIEW

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Our editor considers every shift as a late shift due to his habitual tardiness, which is further extended by a long lunch break and early finish. It’s surprising he manages any work at all. One might wonder why he hasn’t pursued politics instead. (‘You’re fired!’ – Ed)

On the other hand, nurse Floria (Leonie Benesch) is always ready to jump into action with her new work shoes on at the Swiss hospital where she works. After a quick briefing, she quickly realizes that her ward is understaffed, with only herself, a colleague, and an inexperienced student nurse to manage the late shift.

The movie doesn’t ease up on the intensity, starting immediately with a crowded ward filled with patients facing various challenges. One is anxiously awaiting a cancer diagnosis from a doctor who seems more eager to leave work than provide care. Another patient is uncertain about continuing treatment, while the three sons of a patient make excessive demands during her already stressful shift. To top it off, a private patient often treats the nurse like room service rather than a medical professional. The film’s skillful pacing and editing beautifully interweave these stories, building tension as the nurse, Floria, becomes increasingly overwhelmed. It’s only a matter of time before something snaps under the mounting pressure.

In just 90 minutes, the movie “Late Shift” feels like an extended installment of the TV series “Casualty,” immersing us in the intense, non-stop workday of Floria. The film’s fast-paced style is reminiscent of the one continuous take used in “Boiling Point.” However, the relentless pace of the movie doesn’t make it a recruitment advertisement; rather, its closing credits serve as a sobering warning about the severe nurse shortage worldwide. Nurses, who are truly deserving of their angelic title, are greatly needed and in short supply.

Here’s the Late Shift trailer…….

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2025-08-01 17:24