Top 10 Portuguese Language Movies and Shows to Watch This Winter

Winter is the perfect movie season. The cold invites you to stay home and binge-watch all of your favourite films and shows. But did you know that it is also an opportunity to practice Portuguese?

That is right! Cinema is one of the best ways to learn while having fun! It helps you hear real-life speed dialogues, improving your understanding and speaking abilities. Besides, streaming platforms like Netflix are ever more accessible. Thus, it is easy for you to find and watch movies and shows from around the world.

Language learning through film can be a fun and engaging way to improve your fluency. Below, discover ten Portuguese shows and movies you must watch this winter!

Learning European Portuguese Through Films

Cinema is a powerful medium for storytelling. It offers a unique window into the human experience and the world around us. It is also an amazing language-learning tool. Studies show that watching an original show with subtitles in your target language helps you develop your skills.

Better than any theoretical course, it helps you learn grammar through immersion and absorb the language naturally.

Watching movies is about more than learning Portuguese. It also helps you connect with the natives and understand their dreams, worries, and aspirations. It gives you incredible insight into Portuguese culture and boosts your knowledge of local customs.

Introduction to Portuguese Cinema

Portugal has a rich cinema history. Many films reflect the country’s unique culture and experiences. They often explore themes of identity, family, and social justice.

At Portuguese With Carla and Friends, we know you can achieve fluency through consistent exposure and practice. Immersion is one of our main strategies. Download a free list of exposure resources here and discover more about our European Portuguese course – The Journey.

Film Genres

Over the years, Portuguese directors have made films that fit into a wide range of genres. Some are historical dramas or book adaptations, others are comedies, documentaries, or experimental films. For example, “Capitães de Abril” is a historical film about the 25th of April revolution. It explores the lives of two young army captains involved in the overthrow of the right-wing Portuguese dictatorship.

Award-Winning Films

Many Portuguese films and shows have earned international recognition. “Mistérios de Lisboa,” for instance, is a critically acclaimed film that has won numerous awards, including several prizes at the Cannes Film Festival.

Another award-winning Portuguese film is “O Crime do Padre Amaro.” It is based on a novel by Portuguese Writer Eça de Queirós. It tells the story of a priest whose secret affair with a young woman called Amélia exposes deep hypocrisy in the Church. The story ends with her death.

6 Portuguese Movies To Watch This Winter

With so many different options to choose from, there is something for everyone in Portuguese cinema. Whether you love a serious drama or prefer a family comedy, you are sure to find something that suits your tastes. Here are six European Portuguese movies you might like to watch.

O Pátio das Cantigas (1942)

“O Pátio das Cantigas” is a musical comedy classic that follows everyday characters whose simple routines turn into chaos. The humour is timeless, and the movie gives you a sense of the city of Lisbon in the 20th century. It is available on RTP Arquivos.

O Leão da Estrela (1947)

“O Leão da Estrela” is a Portuguese classic comedy. A devoted fan travels for a decisive match and pulls his relatives into a chain of misunderstandings. It is quick-paced with colloquial language. You can find it on RTP Arquivos.

O Consul de Bordeaux (2011)

“O Consul de Bordeaux” focuses on the life story of Aristides de Sousa Mendes. The plot follows his courageous decision that helped thousands of refugees survive violence against jews during World War II. It is available on Prime Video.

As Linhas de Torres (2012)

“As Linhas de Torres” is a French-Portuguese war drama that portrays the Peninsular War and the defence of Lisbon. The story follows soldiers and civilians caught between duty and survival. You can watch it on Filmin.

A Gaiola Dourada (2013)

“A Gaiola Dourada” is a comedy that explores the challenges faced by Portuguese immigrants in France. The story centres on a devoted couple who face an unexpected opportunity that could change their lives. It is a light-hearted movie you can watch on Netflix.

A Mãe é Que Sabe (2016)

“A Mãe é Que Sabe” is a modern family comedy available on Prime Video. The film blends humour and reflection as relatives revisit old tensions and joys. It features lively dialogues and gives you an insight into Portuguese family dynamics.

4 European Portuguese Shows You Can Not Miss

Besides movies, you can also find several Portuguese shows that are worth watching. Not only are many of them filmed on the streets of Portugal, but they also give you a deeper understanding of local reality. Here are four Portuguese shows you will want to watch.

Conta-me Como Foi (2007)

If you want to explore Portugal’s mysterious past, “Conta-me Como Foi” is the perfect period drama. It follows a family in Lisbon in the 1960s and shows their daily routines shaped by tradition, tragedy, and political tension. You can find it on RTP Play.

A Espia (2020)

“A Espia” is an espionage drama that takes place in Portugal during World War II. The series follows a young woman who is an undercover agent navigating intrigue between foreign powers. It is a great show to help you learn formal speech. It is available on RTP Play.

Glória (2021)

“Glória” is a Cold War thriller that unfolds at RARET, a secret broadcasting centre in Ribatejo, rated 16+. The plot follows a young engineer caught between ideology and espionage. The story escalates quickly and holds steady tension. You can watch it on Netflix.

Rabo de Peixe (2023)

Another Netflix crime drama, “Rabo de Peixe,” is set in the Azores. It follows a group of friends who discover a mysterious event that disrupts their fishing town. The narrative mixes danger and hope, building anticipation episode after episode. The cast plays local characters using their regional accent and vocabulary.

Wrapping up on The Top Portuguese Language Movies to Watch This Winter

Cinema is an incredible tool to grow your knowledge of European Portuguese. It is an art that allows you to improve your skills and understanding of the language you are learning. Each movie tells a different story, but they all help you understand and connect with the Portuguese culture.

Besides, with so many streaming platforms available today, it is almost free to access different films and shows. What are your favourite Portuguese language movies and shows? Comment below!