Certainly, Portugal is one of the most visited cities in Europe, today, we will discuss the history and best films of Portuguese cinema.
History of Portuguese cinema
O cinema arrived in Portugal in 1896, just one year after its invention by the Lumière brothers in France. At that time, film screenings took place in improvised spaces, such as fairs and variety theaters.
A first cinema room in Portugal It was opened in 1904, in Lisbon. Soon other rooms appeared across the country. During the following decades, Portuguese cinema was influenced by European cinematographic trends. Mainly Italian neorealism.
One of the great names of Portuguese cinema It is Manoel de Oliveira, who began his career in silent cinema in 1931. With more than 40 films made over more than seven decades. Oliveira is considered one of the greatest Portuguese filmmakers of all time.
In the 60s and 70s, the Portuguese cinema experienced a period of great creativity, with the emergence of a group of young filmmakers who became known as “New Cinema“. Among them stand out Fernando Lopes, Paulo Rocha It is João Cesar Monteiro.
In the 80s and 90s, the Portuguese cinema was marked by the influence of the “New Portuguese Cinema“. It sought to break with the tradition of commercial cinema and value experimentation and creative freedom. Names like Pedro Costa, João Pedro Rodrigues It is Miguel Gomes emerged at that time.
Current years of Portuguese cinema
Currently, the Portuguese cinema continues to be internationally recognized, with directors such as Pedro Costa, which won the award for best direction at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019, and João Salaviza, who won the Palme d'Or short film at the same festival in 2009.
Despite the financial and structural challenges that the Portuguese cinema faces, the creativity and talent of its filmmakers continue to guarantee its presence in the main festivals and awards in the world.
Best Portuguese Cinema Films
Portugal has a rich cultural history and its film industry has produced some exceptional work over the years. In this article, we will explore some of the best films produced in Portugal, from classics to contemporary films.
“Taboo” (2012)
Firstly, "Taboo” is a mesmerizing film by Portuguese filmmaker Miguel Gomes. Therefore, it tells the story of an elderly woman living in Lisbon who is haunted by her past. However, the film is divided into two parts. The first is set in modern-day Lisbon and the second is set in an unnamed African country during colonial times. Ultimately, the film features a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, gorgeous black and white cinematography and a captivating story that will leave you breathless.
“In Vanda’s Room” (2000)
In second place, "In Vanda's Room", in Pedro Costa, is a raw and honest portrait of life in Fontainhas neighborhood, in Lisbon, a poor area where drug addiction is rampant. Therefore, the film follows the daily life of a young woman named Vanda, who struggles with addiction and poverty. However, the film is shot in a documentary style. With non-professional actors living in the neighborhood. It's a powerful and moving film that offers a glimpse into a world that is often ignored.
“Mysteries of Lisbon” (2010)
In third place, "Mysteries of Lisbon” is a period drama directed by Raul Ruiz. Therefore, the film is based on a novel by the Portuguese author Camilo Castelo Branco and follows the life of a boy named João who is trying to discover the truth about his past. However, the film runs over four hours and features an all-star cast, including Adriano Luz, Maria João Bastos It is Ricardo Pereira. However, it is a visually stunning film with a complex narrative that will keep you captivated from start to finish.
“The Death of Carlos Gardel” (2011)
“The Death of Carlos Gardel” is a musical drama directed by Solveig Nordlund. The film takes place in Lisbon in the 1930s and tells the story of a young girl called Aurora, a passionate fan of tango. She becomes involved in a love triangle with two men who compete for her affection. The film features beautiful song and dance sequences, and a stunning performance from the Argentine actress. Sabrina Greve.
“Lava House” (1994)
“Lava House" in Pedro Costa is a mesmerizing film that explores themes of displacement and cultural identity. The film follows a nurse named Mariana who travels to Cape Green to bring back a comatose patient. While there, she becomes enchanted by the culture and falls in love with a local man named Leão. Ultimately, the film features stunning cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack by Cape Verdean musician Bau.
“The Green Years” (1963)
“The Green Years” is a classic coming-of-age film directed by Paulo Rocha. The film tells the story of a young man named Julio who moves from the countryside to Lisbon in search of work. He falls in love with a young woman named Ilda and the two embark on a passionate romance. The film is a beautiful portrait of youth and the search for identity, and features stunning black and white cinematography.
“Alice” (2005)
“Alice” is a film by Portuguese director Marco Martins. The film tells the story of a woman named Alice who is looking for his missing daughter. The film is a haunting and emotional journey that explores themes of grief, loss and redemption. It features a powerful performance from the actress Nuno Lopes and a soundtrack by Bernardo Sassetti.
“Change of Life” (1966)
“Change life" it is a portuguese film performed by Paulo Rocha, released in 1966. The film is considered one of the landmarks of the “New Cinema" in Portugal. That sought to renew national cinema and create a new cinematic language.
The film tells the story of a young girl named Ana, who lives in the village of Vilarinho da Furna, at the Nort of Portugal. However, Ana falls in love with a young musician called Manuel, who is passing through the village with his band. Anyway, they start a romance and decide to run away to Lisbon together, hoping for a better life.
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Therefore, the film is a mix of fiction and documentary, with real images of the village and its inhabitants mixed with the story of Ana and Manuel. However, the narrative is marked by lyricism and poetry. However, the scenes that show the simple and rude life of the peasants contrasting with the modernity of the city.
Anyway, "Change life” is a film that portrays in a raw and realistic way the difficulties faced by those who live in the countryside and the struggle to adapt to a new life in the city. However, the film is a faithful portrait of Portugal rural of the time and the social and cultural change that was occurring in the country.