Brazilian biopic 'Elis' captures singer's vitality, but lacks context

From its opening moments, “Elis” reveals its beautiful but flawed approach to the famed Brazilian singer of its title. Elis Regina (Andréia Horta) is backlighted, with the sounds of her voice on “Como Nossos Pais” hypnotizing the audience from its first bars. It’s lovingly shot by cinematographer...