Discovering Portugal's Cinematic Gems

Maya Ellison
Maya EllisonDecember 5, 2025
Portugal, a country with a rich history and culture, has been producing some remarkable films in the past decade. From the stunning landscapes of northern Portugal to the vibrant streets of Lisbon, these movies showcase the country's unique charm and talent.

The films selected for this list represent a mix of genres, from drama and romance to adventure and mystery, offering a diverse range of stories and themes. Whether you're interested in exploring the human condition, experiencing the beauty of Portugal's landscapes, or simply enjoying a good story, there's something for everyone in this collection.

One of the standout features of Portuguese cinema is its ability to balance simplicity with depth, often using subtle storytelling to convey complex emotions and ideas. This is evident in the way many of these films use the country's stunning landscapes as a backdrop for their narratives, adding an extra layer of depth and meaning to the stories being told.

By exploring these films, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of Portugal's culture, history, and people, as well as experience the unique perspective and creativity of its filmmakers. With their thought-provoking themes, stunning visuals, and engaging storylines, these movies are sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Vitalina Varela
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Vitalina Varela

#1

A Cape Verdean woman navigates her way through Lisbon, following the scanty physical traces her deceased husband left behind and discovering his secret, illicit life.

2019124 min
Drama
6.7
66 votes
The Ornithologist
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The Ornithologist

#2

Stranded along a sublime river fjord in northern Portugal, an ornithologist is subjected to a series of brutal and erotic Stations-of-the-Cross-style tests.

2016118 min
AdventureDramaMystery
6.1
106 votes
Tabu
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Tabu

#3

Lisbon, Portugal, 2010. Pilar, a pious woman devoted to social causes, maintains a peculiar relationship with her neighbor Aurora, a temperamental old woman obsessed with gambling who lives tormented by a mysterious past.

2012120 min
DramaRomance
7.0
171 votes
The Strange Case of Angelica
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The Strange Case of Angelica

#4

A photographer, Isaac is asked by hotel owners to take portraits of their recently deceased daughter Angélica. When he looks at her through the lens of his camera, she appears to come back to life just for him. He instantly falls in love with her. From that moment, he will be haunted by Angélica day and night.

201097 min
Drama
6.5
62 votes

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