108 Top-Rated Brazilian Films
108 titles
- 1
The Age of the EarthMovie · 1980 · 148m · Drama, Fantasy, HistorySet in 1970s Brazil, the film explores the country's political, cultural, and intellectual climate. Inspired by a poem by Castro Alves, it follows four distinct representations of Christ – a Black man, a soldier, an indigenous person, and a guerrilla fighter. These figures embody the fight for change in Brazil, confronting the exploitative actions of John Brahms, a foreign figure driven by greed and oppressive force. The film vividly portrays the challenges of this period, highlighting the complex relationships of power, identity, and resistance in Brazil's turbulent history.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 2
Killed the Family and Went to the MoviesMovie · 1969 · 64m · Drama, ComedyIn a working-class neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, a man lives with his parents in their small apartment. He then coldly stabs them with a razor before going to a movie theater. Separately, Marcia, a wealthy woman feeling unfulfilled, takes advantage of her husband's absence to return to her family home in Petrópolis. There, she unexpectedly meets her old friend, Regina. The film follows these characters as their lives connect and separate, exploring discontentment, violence, and the desire for connection within the vibrant chaos of Rio. It blends crime, drama, and character study to offer a detailed look at life in the city.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5 - 3
Black God, White DevilMovie · 1964 · 120m · Adventure, Western, DramaManuel and Rosa flee into the sertão, the harsh, remote region of Northern Brazil, after an unforeseen act of violence involving their employer. There, battling to survive, they face a series of menacing figures who exert a growing influence over them. The film is a gripping story about desperation, survival, and how the unforgiving landscape shapes people's actions, offering a powerful and immersive cinematic experience.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1
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The BanditMovie · 1953 · 105mDuring the "cangaceiro" era in northeastern Brazil, Captain Galdino Ferreira and his men kidnap schoolteacher Olívia, planning to demand a ransom. But one of the captain's men, Teodoro, falls in love with her and escapes with her into the harsh countryside, pursued by the brigands.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 5
Cabaret MineiroMovie · 1981 · 75mA traveler journeys through Minas Gerais, Brazil, on a train. He encounters both current and past lovers, prompting memories of his own youthful romances.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.1 - 6
Mango YellowMovie · 2002 · 103m · DramaIn Recife, Brazil, the paths of a tough butcher, his wife, a solitary waitress, a cruel man, and a flophouse owner become intertwined.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6
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Movie DementiaMovie · 1986 · 90mThis is a modern Brazilian take on the Faust myth. A young man, the heir to a failing cigarette company and struggling with a personal crisis, abandons his life for a seemingly perfect paradise advertised by a travel agency – a place he believes holds the key to understanding himself. There, he encounters a character reminiscent of Mephistopheles who guides his search.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.2 - 8
Hour of the StarMovie · 1985 · 96m · Drama, Comedy"Macabéa's New Life" is set in urban Brazil and follows a woman as she searches for herself and builds friendships after her aunt dies. Moving to the city, Macabéa finds comfort in a radio station and weekend adventures on the subway. She adjusts to a new job and a boarding house with three other women.
Her life changes when she meets Olímpico, another person from the Northeast with political ambitions. They connect through their shared background while pursuing their own goals. The film explores themes of adapting to new situations, pursuing dreams, and the importance of friendship, offering a story about resilience and finding happiness in a changing world.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 9
The Woman of EveryoneMovie · 1969 · 93mAngela Meat and Bone is a young woman with a strong sexual appetite who lives among a group of troubled individuals. She holds a powerful, seductive influence over them, dominating them with her erotic energy.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.7 - 10
VerônicaMovie · 2009 · 90mA teacher visits one of her students at his home in a slum and learns a shocking truth: the boy's parents were murdered by drug traffickers, who are now searching for him.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 7.1
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AruandaMovie · 1960 · 20mThis is the true story of Quilombo Olho d'Água, a runaway slave community in the Brazilian state of Paraíba that became isolated from the rest of the country. Quilombos were settlements formed by enslaved people who escaped from slavery during the colonial period.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8 - 12
The ClownMovie · 2011 · 90m · Comedy, DramaPuro Sangue e Pangaré is the story of a father and son who run a circus together, with both performing as clowns. At one point, Pangaré begins to express weariness and unhappiness with his life as a clown.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 13
MacunaimaMovie · 1969 · 110m · Comedy, Fantasy, AdventureIn the Brazilian jungle, a grown Black man named Macunaíma unexpectedly arrives in a small village. He then undergoes a remarkable change, transforming into a white man and traveling to São Paulo. There, he embraces a stylish life and falls deeply in love with Ci, a fiery revolutionary. Her tragic death in a bombing leaves him devastated.
Seeking revenge, Macunaíma robs a powerful industrialist. However, his wealth and experiences provide little comfort when he returns to his village. This imaginative story by Mário de Andrade explores themes of identity, social expectations, and love, set against the backdrop of Brazilian culture and history. It’s a captivating adventure that gently examines what it means to be human through one man's extraordinary journey.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
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The Year My Parents Went on VacationMovie · 2006 · 103m · DramaIn 1970, a young boy finds himself alone in a Jewish neighborhood in Brazil, a time marked by both the excitement of the World Cup and the oppressive reality of a dictatorship.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 15
City of GodMovie · 2002 · 129m · Drama, CrimeIn 1970s Rio de Janeiro's impoverished favelas, two young men make contrasting choices. Rocket is an aspiring photographer who documents the escalating drug violence in his community. Meanwhile, José "Zé" Pequeno is an ambitious newcomer to the dangerous world of drug dealing.Stream onIMDb 8.6TMDB 8.4
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The Given WordMovie · 1962 · 98m · DramaZé, living in a poor community, considers his donkey his most prized possession. When the animal falls gravely ill, Zé desperately prays to Saint Bárbara for a cure. Miraculously, the donkey recovers, and Zé vows to carry a cross on a pilgrimage to Saint Bárbara's church, a journey mirroring Jesus'. As he travels to the state capital, Zé faces hardships and gains new insights that change his view of faith and sacrifice. However, upon arriving, a harsh priest dismisses the importance of Zé’s devotion, forcing him to question the true meaning of faith and belief.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.1 - 17
Carlota Joaquina, Princess of BrazilMovie · 1995 · 100m · History, ComedyThis historical film follows Carlota Joaquina, a Spanish princess whose life changes when she meets the Portuguese prince at age ten. The movie explores her emotional journey as she deals with a planned marriage and the pressures of royal life, showing how her initial unhappiness evolves into a story of love, duty, and sacrifice. Set in detailed historical locations with compelling performances, the film offers an intimate look at Carlota's inner world as she navigates politics and personal struggles while fulfilling her role as a queen.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 18
Antonio das MortesMovie · 1969 · 100m · Action, Drama, WesternIn the harsh Brazilian backlands, the legend of the Cangaceiros bandits returns with Coirana's rebellious group. A blind landowner, who previously fought against them, hires Antônio, a troubled assassin, to kill his longtime enemy. Antônio succeeds in defeating Coirana, but discovers the humanity within the outlaw group, forcing him to question his own beliefs and allegiances.
Antônio chooses a life of revolution, turning against those who hired him. This intense story explores loyalty, justice, and moral uncertainty amidst conflict, as he journeys through a world of violence and rebellion. As Antônio's path unfolds, the distinction between good and evil becomes unclear, challenging viewers to reconsider their own views on right and wrong.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 19
Love for SaleMovie · 2006 · 90m · DramaIn northern Brazil, Hermila waits for her husband, who has left her. Determined and independent, she holds a raffle, with herself as the only participant, for "a night in paradise." This visually stunning film portrays the challenges faced by a young woman who has endured hardship, while also highlighting her strength in choosing her own path.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3
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A Wolf at the DoorMovie · 2013 · 98m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeWhen their child is kidnapped, two parents find their love turning to resentment and panic fueling suspicion between them.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
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São Paulo, IncorporatedMovie · 1965 · 111m · DramaCarlos lives a quiet life in São Paulo, working at a top company during a time of growth for Brazil's auto industry. He takes a job managing auto parts production in a factory, but feels unfulfilled despite his comfortable life and family. Longing for something more, yet unsure what it might be, Carlos decides to leave his routine and start an unexpected journey, hoping to find new opportunities and a different direction for his life.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1 - 22
Di Cavalcanti Di GlauberMovie · 1977 · 18mDirector Glauber Rocha documents the funeral of his friend, prominent Brazilian painter Emiliano Di Cavalcanti, in this often-debated film.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.2 - 23
Everything's AlrightMovie · 1978 · 111mA middle-class family undertakes a renovation of their apartment, but the resulting noise, interaction with the workers, and unsettling events transform what began as a simple project into a deeply disturbing ordeal.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.7 - 24
Summer ShowersMovie · 1978 · 88mA 70-year-old widower in a low-income neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro experiences a second chance at love when he meets a woman around his age.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.4 - 25
Central StationMovie · 1998 · 110m · DramaA kind former teacher now writes letters for people who can't read or write. He meets a young boy struggling with the loss of his mother. They connect and set out to find the father the boy has never met. The teacher’s wisdom helps the grieving child, while the boy’s innocence gives the teacher renewed hope. As they search, they face life's complexities and discover healing through their bond. This drama explores human strength and how meaningful connections can change lives.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1
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Rio, 100 Degrees F°Movie · 1955 · 91m · DramaDuring a hot summer in Rio de Janeiro, five boys from a poor neighborhood try to make a living selling peanuts on the city's busy streets. As they travel through different parts of Rio, they encounter unexpected problems and experiences that reveal a detailed picture of urban life. Their adventures offer a close look at the realities of living in the city, showing its many sides. This moving story about growing up provides a new way of seeing Rio's complicated social issues, while also highlighting strength and optimism in the face of hardship.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 27
The Hills of DisorderMovie · 2006 · 135mCarapiru, from one of Brazil's last indigenous communities, lives peacefully connected to nature, utilizing the forest's resources wisely. He is suddenly forced to survive on his own and seeks refuge in the rainforest with the aid of compassionate settlers, establishing a new life. But Carapiru is displaced once more, this time by government agents. This film offers a visually compelling look at the lives of Brazil's native peoples in the 21st century.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3 - 28
Os Saltimbancos TrapalhõesMovie · 1981 · 100m · Adventure, Comedy, FamilyIn a quiet town, Didi, Dedé, Mussum, and Zacarias lead simple lives. Their world changes when they get a job at the Bartolo Circus, using their talent for making people laugh. They quickly become the circus's main attraction, enjoying newfound fame.
But success brings problems. Magician Assis Satan is jealous of their popularity, seeing them as a rival. The circus owner, a greedy Baron, wants to profit from their talent without paying fairly.
The friends realize they must face competition and difficult people. Together, they fight back against Assis Satan and the Baron's unfair plans, showing that friendship can overcome any obstacle.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 29
A Dog's WillMovie · 2000 · 104m · Comedy, Drama, FantasyJoão Grilo and Chicó, two impoverished men from the Brazilian countryside, make their living by swindling people in a small northeastern town. After they die, they face judgment before Christ, the Devil, and the Virgin Mary, who decide their fate regarding entry into paradise.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.4 - 30
LimiteMovie · 1931 · 114m · Drama, AdventureThree people are adrift on a vast ocean, with no hope of rescue. To endure their dire situation, they begin sharing stories from their past, revealing the events that brought them to this isolated place. Each story shows how their lives shaped them and led to their current struggle. Confined together, their shared hardship becomes the focus of everything. This emotional journey connects three separate stories, highlighting the strength of the human spirit when facing impossible odds.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 31
PixoteMovie · 1980 · 127m · Crime, DramaThis powerful drama tells the story of Pixote, a young boy trapped in the brutal reality of a Brazilian youth detention center. After two fellow inmates are murdered by corrupt police and falsely accused, Pixote teams up with Lilica, a resourceful 17-year-old trans woman, to escape their confinement.
Their escape plunges them into a dangerous life of crime. Pixote and three other boys are drawn deeper into violence and despair as they struggle to survive. The film unflinchingly portrays the harsh realities faced by these vulnerable youths, where trust is nonexistent and the lines between victim and aggressor blur.
As they navigate this world, Pixote and his companions are forced to confront the devastating effects of poverty, abuse, and injustice. This unforgettable story is a harrowing look at survival, resilience, and the lasting scars of trauma on young lives caught in a cycle of violence.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.9
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Bang BangMovie · 1971 · 80mA nameless city dweller finds themselves caught in a string of bizarre events: a wild taxi journey, a run-in with a peculiar gang of criminals, and plenty of gunfights. The story is charged with a distinctive sense of chaos, hinting at a primal side to humanity.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.2 - 33
TattooMovie · 2013 · 110m · DramaPaulete, a celebrated performer with a bold theater company, is visited by his brother-in-law, Fininha, a young soldier. A passionate connection develops between them, forcing Fininha to navigate the intense restrictions of the Brazilian military dictatorship.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.6
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That Damned MeatMovie · 1985 · 77mNhô Quim's lifelong ambition is to eat red meat. He meets Carula, a young woman eager to marry, who promises her father will slaughter an ox for him at their wedding. However, Nhô Quim must first successfully complete a series of trials.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 35
The Man of The SputnikMovie · 1959 · 98mA mysterious object, possibly the Soviet satellite Sputnik, crashes into a hillbilly's chicken coop.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 36
Elite SquadMovie · 2007 · 115m · Drama, Action, CrimeIn 1997, as the Pope prepares to visit Rio de Janeiro, Captain Nascimento of BOPE (Special Police Operations Battalion) is tasked with neutralizing threats from drug dealers in a nearby, dangerous slum.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1
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Bye Bye BrazilMovie · 1980 · 110m · DramaThe enchanting Caravana Rolidei arrives in a quiet town, offering a dazzling show with magic by the Gypsy Lord, captivating dances by Salomé, and incredible strength displays by the silent Swallow. A young accordion player is instantly drawn to Salomé and yearns to join the troupe. With his pregnant wife Dasdô, he asks the Gypsy Lord for permission to travel with them. The enigmatic leader agrees, welcoming them and including them in their performances as they journey from town to town, captivating audiences. The film explores themes of love, acceptance, and following your dreams in a world that embraces the unusual.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8
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At Midnight I'll Take Your SoulMovie · 1964 · 83m · Horror, Thriller, FantasyIn a quiet Brazilian village, Zé do Caixão, known as "Zé from the Coffin," is an undertaker. He is married but dreams of having a child with special abilities, a wish he can't fulfill because his wife is infertile. Deeply saddened by this, Zé makes a disturbing choice: he kills his wife, believing her death will allow him to have a child.
This dark story explores the disturbed mind of a man desperate to control his destiny. Driven by love, loss, and a need for sacrifice, Zé begins a difficult search for a woman to carry his child. Beneath his ordinary appearance, he hides a fierce obsession as he navigates life in the small town.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8
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This Night I'll Possess Your CorpseMovie · 1967 · 108m · Horror, Thriller, FantasyIn a close-knit town, Zé do Caixão, the unusual undertaker, returns with a renewed intensity, driven by a relentless search for the ideal partner. His pursuit leaves a path of fear.
He is joined in this mission by his hunchbacked assistant, equally dedicated to the macabre. Together, they bring chaos to the town, challenging the community's understanding of love and loss through a combination of force and manipulation.
Zé’s quest for perfection blurs the line between love and obsession, fueled by a dangerous partnership determined to achieve its goal.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0
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Neighboring SoundsMovie · 2012 · 131m · Thriller, Drama, CrimeA private security company arrives in a middle-class neighborhood in Recife, Brazil.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1
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The TrespasserMovie · 2002 · 97m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeTwo business partners arrange for the murder of their third colleague. Subsequently, the hitman demands a price for his silence, leveraging his control over the company as leverage to blackmail the remaining two men.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 42
BrainstormMovie · 2001 · 84m · DramaNeto is an ordinary teenager from a middle-class family. When his father discovers a marijuana cigarette in his pocket, Neto is committed to a mental institution. There, he encounters a bizarre and brutal world where individuals are consumed by a corrupt and merciless system.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.9 - 43
The ConspiratorsMovie · 1972 · 78mThis is the true story of a failed independence plot in colonial Brazil. A group of intellectuals and wealthy individuals planned a coup to break free from Portuguese rule. The film follows their efforts from the initial stages to the execution of Tiradentes, the leader of the movement.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 44
Case of the Naves BrothersMovie · 1967 · 92mFollowing the disappearance of a relative and business associate, the Nave brothers report the incident to the police. Instead of receiving assistance, they are arrested and accused of the missing person's murder. While imprisoned, the brothers are subjected to torture in an attempt to force a confession. Their wives are also raped.Stream onIMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8
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BLABLABLÁMovie · 1968 · 26mThis film explores the struggles of three individuals living under a Brazilian military dictatorship: a politician, a revolutionary, and an ordinary person.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 46
BacurauMovie · 2019 · 131m · Mystery, Western, ThrillerIn the remote Brazilian backlands, the town of Bacurau is grieving the death of its 94-year-old matriarch, Carmelita. Shortly after her passing, the townspeople discover that Bacurau has disappeared from virtually all maps.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.7
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Conjugal WarfareMovie · 1975 · 89mThis film centers on a struggling couple who, despite their mutual dislike, are bound together by shared living space.IMDb 6.8TMDB 4.9 - 48
Estômago: A Gastronomic StoryMovie · 2007 · 113m · Drama, Comedy, MysteryIn a competitive world, Raimundo Nonato finds success through his cooking. Across different social circles, this seemingly gentle young man develops his culinary skills and sharpens his knives, and then he falls in love. Jorge's clever, humorous story uses food as a metaphor for ambition and staying alive.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.9 - 49
O Grande MomentoMovie · 1958 · 80mOn his wedding day, a young man from an immigrant family encounters unexpected financial difficulties in securing the funds for the final preparations. His family works tirelessly, selling their possessions and purchasing everything needed to ensure a memorable celebration.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.7 - 50
The Angel Was BornMovie · 1969 · 64mSantamaria and Urtigo are two bandits fleeing from the law – one white, one Black. Santamaria is a mystical visionary who believes a purifying angel is about to appear. Urtigo, his loyal companion, is a straightforward and resourceful man who accompanies Santamaria and helps with his criminal activities. Together, the pair seize control of a house by kidnapping its owner and his girlfriend.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 51
The Hour and Turn of Augusto MatragaMovie · 1965 · 114mAugusto Matraga, a violent farmer, is betrayed by his wife and falls into the hands of enemies who leave him for dead. He is rescued and nursed back to health by a kind couple of small farmers. Their influence sparks a long period of repentance in Matraga as he waits for an opportunity to get revenge. This creates a conflict within him between his violent instincts, his desire for vengeance, and the goodness and mysticism he has also inherited.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4
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Sargento GetúlioMovie · 1983 · 85mIn the 1940s, a sergeant is tasked with escorting a political prisoner from Paulo Afonso to Aracaju, Brazil. Mid-journey, a government change occurs, and he receives orders to release the prisoner. However, he chooses to continue the journey.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9 - 53
To the Left of the FatherMovie · 2001 · 163m · Romance, DramaIn 1940s São Paulo, Pedro is sent to find his brother André. André left home because of their father's controlling nature, their mother's excessive affection, and Pedro's resentment over the father's preference for André. Adding to the family tensions is André’s unusual relationship with their sister, Ana.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 54
Master, a Building in CopacabanaMovie · 2002 · 110m · DocumentaryThis film explores the everyday lives of 37 families residing in a large, twelve-story building in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro. It portrays their dramas, hopes, personal secrets, isolation, and aspirations.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.1 - 55
The Priest and the GirlMovie · 1966 · 90mA young priest's arrival disrupts the quiet, traditional life of a small town in Minas Gerais. His growing attraction to a beautiful local woman ignites a passionate and forbidden romance.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 56
Buccaneer SoulMovie · 1993 · 112mThis film chronicles half a century of Brazilian history through the evolving friendship of two intellectuals.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.1 - 57
The Awakening of the BeastMovie · 1970 · 93m · Horror, DramaSet in the 1960s, the film follows a psychiatrist who conducts an experimental study using LSD on four volunteers. He hopes to understand how the drug affects people's minds and behavior. The experiment takes a troubling turn when one participant reveals a disturbing inclination towards evil, jeopardizing the entire study. The movie explores psychological exploration, morality, and the potential dangers of examining the subconscious.Stream onIMDb 6.0TMDB 5.6
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Bus 174Movie · 2002 · 118m · Documentary, CrimeThis documentary recounts the events of June 12th, 2000, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when a young man hijacked bus 174, threatening to harm the passengers. The incident, broadcast live across Brazilian television, became a deeply disturbing portrayal of violence and a stark example of police failure and misconduct.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 59
CarandiruMovie · 2003 · 145m · DramaA doctor launches an AIDS prevention program within Brazil's largest prison, Carandiru. He encounters the inmates who will become victims of a horrific massacre: in 1992, the São Paulo Military Police killed 111 people under the guise of maintaining order. This film is based on true events and Dráuzio Varella's book about the tragedy.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
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Dona Flor and Her Two HusbandsMovie · 1976 · 117m · Comedy, Drama, FantasyFlor, a young widow, begins a new chapter after her husband Vadinho's death. Though charming, Vadinho had a complicated past. Hoping for stability, Flor marries Dr. Teodoro, a dependable man who offers her a fresh start.
But Vadinho unexpectedly returns, disrupting Flor’s happiness. His ghostly presence complicates her marriage as she tries to reconcile love and loyalty while exploring the mysteries of the afterlife. This film blends heartfelt moments with humor, offering a charming look at life, loss, and the lasting power of love.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8
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The Movie of My LifeMovie · 2017 · 113m · DramaSouthern Brazil, 1963. Tony, the son of a French man and a Brazilian woman, is a young man passionate about film and poetry. Returning to his rural hometown after college, he discovers his father has permanently returned to France. Seeking answers and a connection to a missing paternal influence, Tony seeks out his father's old friends. He becomes a school teacher, hoping to offer the children what he feels he lacks. A series of events ultimately lead him to a surprising clue about his father's fate and why he left.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3
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Behind the SunMovie · 2001 · 95m · Drama, Thriller, RomanceApril 1910, in the Brazilian backlands. Tonho's father commands him to avenge his brother's death. Tonho understands that carrying out this act will mean he has only a short time left to live, before the other family seeks revenge. He struggles with the choice between honoring his family's tradition and defying it, with his younger brother Pacu urging him to rebel. Their lives change when a small traveling circus arrives in the vast, desolate region where Tonho's family resides.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3
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Meteorango Kid, Intergalactic HeroMovie · 1969 · 85mIn Bahia, Brazil, during the late 1960s, Lula, a disaffected college student, spends his days protesting at the university. He lacks a clear political direction, drifting through the streets, using drugs, pursuing acting, and seeking casual sex. Simultaneously, an ordinary young man preys on women in public, attempting to force sexual encounters.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1 - 64
Isle of FlowersMovie · 1989 · 13m · DocumentaryIsle of Flowers is a film that follows the journey of one tomato, from being planted and grown to being bought at a supermarket. After it rots in the trash, the story continues as we see how it affects animals, waste collectors, and impoverished children, highlighting the difference between their lives and ours. The film examines sustainability, inequality, and how everything is connected, showing how small choices can have big consequences. It asks us to think about the wider impact of our actions.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1 - 65
The Sign of ChaosMovie · 2003 · 80mCustoms agent Dr. Amnésio inspects film reels, specifically a documentary by Orson Welles about Brazil, attempting to seize them. The scene then shifts to a celebratory gathering of repression agents, marking their triumph over freedom and artistic expression.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 66
Sea of RosesMovie · 1977 · 99mA woman flees with her demanding daughter, embarking on a road trip marked by strange and unexpected occurrences.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 67
TropicáliaMovie · 2012 · 87mTropicália is a documentary film set in the turbulent 1960s. It explores the Brazilian artistic movement of the same name and the artists' fight to express revolutionary ideas through their music, challenging the traditional sounds of Brazil at the time.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
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The Lyre of DelightMovie · 1978 · 105mIn Niterói, a woman whose mother was a dancer at the Lira do Delírio nightclub experiences the kidnapping of her son during Carnival. With the help of a journalist friend, she plunges into Rio de Janeiro's criminal world, encountering various criminals. She also travels back in time to a previous Carnival, hoping to identify the kidnapper from a gathering of people.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 69
Perfumed BallMovie · 1997 · 93mIn 1930s Brazil, a Lebanese photographer living in the country captures footage of Lampião, the famed Brazilian outlaw.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 70
The GunsMovie · 1964 · 85mArmed soldiers are dispatched to Northeast Brazil to prevent a starving population from raiding a food supply in the arid countryside. As people succumb to hunger-induced hallucinations, a religious leader's prophecies fuel the growing desperation. Meanwhile, a truck driver witnesses the unfolding events and struggles with his loyalty to the soldiers and his anger at the government's inaction in the face of widespread suffering.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 71
The Wrung-Out ManMovie · 1980 · 97m · DramaIn São Paulo, Deraldo, a poet from Northeast Brazil, lives by writing and selling pamphlets. His life changes when he's mistakenly implicated in a murder. While receiving an award at a corporate party, Deraldo is mistaken for an employee who killed his boss.
Suddenly, he's caught in a police investigation and media frenzy, facing a complex world of lies and corporate secrets. Deraldo must navigate this confusing environment, uncovering hidden agendas to prove his innocence and discover the truth behind the crime. The film examines identity, social inequality, and the value of artistic honesty, all within the lively setting of Brazil's city.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1 - 72
The Second MotherMovie · 2015 · 112m · DramaVal left her daughter Jessica in Pernambuco as a child, entrusting her to family. For the next 13 years, Val works as a nanny for Fabinho in São Paulo, achieving financial security but living with the constant ache of missing out on raising Jessica herself. As Fabinho prepares for university entrance exams, Jessica unexpectedly reappears, offering Val a chance to reconnect. But Jessica, having been raised differently, challenges Val's carefully constructed life and exposes the fragile foundations of social class. With wit and insight, the story explores how young people might disrupt deeply ingrained societal structures.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 8.0
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InnocenceMovie · 1983 · 118mIn 19th-century rural England, a young woman is drawn into a passionate affair with a visiting doctor. He is staying at her family home to care for her, and they attempt to keep their forbidden romance secret from her disapproving father.IMDb 6.7TMDB 4.7 - 74
Twenty Years LaterMovie · 1984 · 119m · Documentary, HistoryIn 1964, Eduardo Coutinho started filming in northeastern Brazil, unknowingly capturing the beginning of the military coup that would later interrupt his work. Returning in 1981, he resumed documenting the lives impacted by the coup and the following social changes. He reconnected with a family whose father was murdered for defending rural communities. Through his film, Coutinho portrays their fight to cope with their loss and the wider effects of political violence on individuals and the country's memory. The film is a powerful look at grief, memory, and strength amidst turmoil and tragedy.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.5 - 75
PlayingMovie · 2007 · 105m · DocumentaryAfter seeing a newspaper advertisement, everyday women share pieces of their life stories with director Eduardo Coutinho. These stories are then acted out by actresses, creating a fascinating blend of reality, drama, and perspective.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.4 - 76
SantiagoMovie · 2007 · 80mThis documentary follows Santiago, an unusual man who previously served as a butler to a film director and his parents. The footage was captured in 1992 but remained unedited by the director for years. Rediscovering the material in 2005, he decides to finally begin the editing process.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 77
Elite Squad: The Enemy WithinMovie · 2010 · 115m · Drama, Action, CrimeFollowing a violent raid by the BOPE special forces unit at the Bangu 1 high-security prison in Rio de Janeiro, aimed at suppressing an inmate rebellion, Lieutenant-Colonel Roberto Nascimento and Captain André Matias are accused by human rights advocate Diogo Fraga of executing prisoners. Matias is reassigned to the corrupt Military Police, while Nascimento is cleared of wrongdoing by the Governor.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
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All Nudity Shall Be PunishedMovie · 1973 · 102mA wealthy man has a relationship with a prostitute and becomes uncertain about his emotions for her. He struggles to distinguish between attraction and revulsion.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.7 - 79
Barren LivesMovie · 1963 · 100m · DramaThis documentary follows a drover and his family as they struggle to survive in Brazil's harsh northern badlands during a severe drought. Driven by resilience, they search for a new start. The film offers an intimate look at their lives, capturing both their hardships and moments of hope in a world where destiny is uncertain but the fight for a better future continues.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 80
The Land of São SaruêMovie · 1971 · 80mThis documentary explores a region in Northeast Brazil grappling with severe drought and the changing ways its people make a living. It chronicles the evolution of the area's economic activities in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.0 - 81
Assault on the Pay TrainMovie · 1962 · 102mSet in Rio de Janeiro in 1960, the film tells the story of a gang led by the notorious outlaw Tião Medonho who executes a daring railroad robbery, targeting a train carrying a significant amount of money.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.0 - 82
The Unscrupulous OnesMovie · 1962 · 100mWhen spoiled Vavá discovers his wealthy father is about to lose everything, he asks his friend Jandir for help. Their plan to quickly raise money involves blackmailing Vavá's uncle with compromising photos of his mistress, Leda.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1 - 83
No Way, SpiderMovie · 1970 · 92mSpider, a banker, shares his home with three women. This wealthy man is a satirical portrayal of Brazil’s upper class, and his story serves as a launching point for an exploration of the psychological limitations of the Brazilian elite. The film employs dark humor to deliver pointed social commentary.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9 - 84
Lucio FlavioMovie · 1977 · 125m · Crime, DramaDuring the turbulent early 1970s, Brazil faced widespread political corruption and violence, leading to the rise of deadly paramilitary groups called death squads. Against this backdrop, a legendary bandit emerged, challenging these forces – the film’s protagonist. The movie explores his remarkable life and courageous fight against the Death Squads, offering a vivid portrayal of that difficult period. As he confronts deceit, betrayal, and brutality, his story becomes an inspiring tale of resilience, bravery, and justice amidst hardship. Featuring intense action and compelling character development, the film transports viewers to a time when one man's fight against oppression captivated the nation.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 85
The Red Light BanditMovie · 1968 · 92m · Thriller, CrimeIn the slums of São Paulo, Jorge’s life is a constant fight for survival until he discovers an unusual talent for robbing luxury homes, earning him the nickname "The Red Light Bandit." The media calls him this because of his signature red flashlight and his bold way of talking to hostages during his daring crimes. He doesn't hesitate to make light of tense situations and execute impressive escapes, using the money to indulge in extravagant experiences that stand in stark contrast to his poor origins. The vibrant, impoverished neighborhood of Boca do Lixo provides the setting for Jorge’s audacious life, a world where crime, indulgence, and dark humor intertwine with deep social inequality.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.7
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Go Ahead, Brazil!Movie · 1982 · 105mIt's the mid-1970s in Brazil. The military dictatorship uses a booming economy and a World Cup victory to divert attention from its crackdown on political opponents. Jofre Godoi da Fonseca, a detached middle-class man, is wrongly identified as Sarmento, a political activist he briefly encountered at the airport before Sarmento was killed. As a result, Jofre is arrested and charged with being "subversive."IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 87
All the Women in the WorldMovie · 1966 · 90mA womanizer named Paulo encounters his friend's fiancée, and she profoundly alters his perspective on women. He falls deeply in love, perceiving her as embodying all the qualities he desires. This forces him to confront a significant choice: continue his previous lifestyle or embrace this unique connection and commit to monogamy.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.8 - 88
Men and WomenMovie · 1964 · 93m · DramaThe film follows two friends whose shared experience with two prostitutes leads to a night of intense emotional exposure. Their conversation reveals underlying bitterness and exposes deep-seated pain hidden beneath their friendship. As the night progresses, the audience witnesses the emptiness felt by the four characters and the complicated mix of desire, regret, and self-reflection within their relationships. The movie offers a powerful look at human emotion and the struggle for connection in a modern world.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 89
The MarginMovie · 1967 · 96mAlong the banks of the Tietê River in São Paulo, a story emerges about people living on the margins of society. It follows prostitutes, a pimp, a man with a mental disability, and others struggling with hopelessness. Trapped in a repetitive cycle of despair, they long for escape, seeing death as their only way out – a shared journey into darkness.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 90
Bar EsperanzaMovie · 1983 · 119mIn Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, a collection of unusual individuals come together at a well-known bar.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.7 - 91
Madame SatãMovie · 2002 · 105m · Crime, Drama, RomanceRio de Janeiro, 1930s. João Francisco dos Santos exists on the fringes of society – a man with a complicated past as the son of slaves, a former convict, and known for his rough behavior. He's also a protector to those cast out by society, and openly gay. On stage at a cabaret, João transforms into the flamboyant performer Madame Satã.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 92
They Don't Wear Black TieMovie · 1981 · 122m · DramaThis drama follows Otavio, a dedicated union leader fighting for fair conditions at his local factory. His son Tião, who also works there, is hesitant to join a strike, worried about their family's finances. This difference in perspective creates conflict between father and son, straining their relationship. Their mother, Romana, acts as a bridge, helping them understand each other and ultimately strengthening their family while exploring important social issues.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.2 - 93
Cinema, Aspirins and VulturesMovie · 2005 · 99m · DramaIn 1942, deep in Northeastern Brazil, an unlikely pair crosses paths. Johan, an aspirin salesman trying to evade the German military draft, encounters Ranulpho, a rural Brazilian searching for relief from a severe drought.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
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SuperOutroMovie · 1989 · 46mA man with schizophrenia wanders the streets of Salvador, engaging in bizarre and attention-grabbing behavior. He ultimately attempts to realize his lifelong ambition: to fly over the city like a superhero.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 95
IracemaMovie · 1976 · 96mA young woman travels to Belém for the Círio de Nazaré festival, but is lured into prostitution and dreams of relocating to Brazil's wealthier Southeast. While at a nightclub, she meets a truck driver who transports wood. Hoping for a life in the city, she asks him for a ride, and they embark on a journey along the Trans-Amazon highway. The film portrays the social tragedies of the Amazon, including conflict with Brazilian military authorities, deforestation, forced labor, and child prostitution. It received international acclaim but was banned by Brazilian censors, only being released years later and winning the Brasília Film Festival in 1981.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.4 - 96
TravellerMovie · 1998 · 114mFate brings four people to a place of intense passion, where love transcends the human. Rafael, a traveler like a comet, arrives at a celebration for the town's patron saint in a small Minas Gerais town. He ignites passion and crime before disappearing, leaving behind a haunting atmosphere that proves deadly to those he leaves behind. Mrs. Ana de Lara, a proud wealthy widow, and Missy, a young girl whose beauty resembles a vibrant red bird, become his victims. Master Juca do Vale, a criminal, experiences an unexpected humanity through his passion in this story of love, death, forgiveness, and rebirth.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 97
Kiss of the Spider WomanMovie · 1985 · 120m · DramaIn a Latin American prison, two men from different worlds forge an unexpected friendship. Valentin, a journalist who won't compromise his ideals, faces brutal torture. His new cellmate, Molina, is a thoughtful window-dresser with a love for stories and old movies.
Confined together, Molina uses his imagination to offer them both an escape. He creates vivid fantasies inspired by romantic films, building a world of love within their cell.
Despite their contrasting pasts, Valentin and Molina connect as they grapple with their shared confinement. This story explores friendship, resilience, and hope in the face of oppression and violence. It highlights how human connection can provide comfort even in the darkest places.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
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Two StreamsMovie · 1999 · 112mA driven young executive revisits her hometown of Dois Córregos, triggering memories of the late 1960s. It was then she encountered her uncle, a man fleeing the Brazilian military dictatorship.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.4 - 99
Suburban AngelsMovie · 1987 · 90mThis film explores the lives of three teachers living in the suburbs of São Paulo. It follows their romantic relationships, their experiences with the challenges of their community, and the difficulties they face with their families.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.8 - 100
Rough GangMovie · 1933 · 78mOn their wedding night, a man murders his wife after discovering her infidelity. He is acquitted of the crime and subsequently relocates to the countryside. There, he becomes entangled in a love triangle.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8