Thalita Alves
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The 20 Best Portuguese Movies on Netflix in 2023
If you’re looking for movies in Portuguese, you’re in luck.
There are plenty of options offered across the numerous streaming services available today.
And if you have a Netflix subscription, you’ve got access to some great Portuguese films.
While the collection is a bit heavy on documentaries and cheesy rom-coms, there’s some action and drama for you, too.
In this post, you’ll get 20 of the best Portuguese movies that you can stream on Netflix today.
Contents
- 1. “Racionais: Das Ruas de São Paulo Pro Mundo” (“Racionais MC’s: From the Streets of São Paulo”)
- 2. “A Metamorfose dos Pássaros” (“The Metamorphis of Birds”)
- 3.“Democracia em Vertigem” (“The Edge of Democracy”)
- 4. “A Última Floresta” (“The Last Forest”)
- 5. “7 Prisioneiros” (“7 Prisoners”)
- 6. “Pelé”
- 7. “Alice Júnior” (“Alice Junior”)
- 8. “Tudo Bem no Natal que Vem” (“Just Another Christmas”)
- 9. “Depois do Universo” (“Beyond the Universe”)
- 10. “Colegas” (Buddies)
- 11. “Cidade de Deus: 10 Anos Depois” (“City of God: 10 Years Later”)
- 12. “Cabras da Peste” (“Get the Goat”)
- 13. “Ricos de Amor” (“Rich in Love”)
- 14. “Kardec”
- 15. “Chatô: O Rei do Brasil” (“Chatô – The King of Brazil”)
- 16. “O Matador” (“The Killer”)
- 17. “Esposa de Aluguel” (“Someone Borrowed”)
- 18. “The Secret Diary of an Exchange Student”
- 19. “Mar” (“Sea”)
- 20. “No Ritmo da Fé” (“In the Rhythm of Faith”)
- Learning Portuguese with Netflix Movies
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1. “Racionais: Das Ruas de São Paulo Pro Mundo” (“Racionais MC’s: From the Streets of São Paulo”)
Year: 2022
Genre: Documentary/Music
If you’re a fan of rap or hip-hop music, or even if you’re just interested in Brazilian culture, add this one to your watchlist. Racionais MC’s is one of the most popular and influential rap groups in the country. They’ve been an active voice against issues such as police brutality, prejudice, organized crime and social exclusion.
This film takes a look at how their music and activism have influenced Brazilian society and culture. And, of course, it features plenty of their music.
2. “A Metamorfose dos Pássaros” (“The Metamorphis of Birds”)
Year: 2020
Genre: Biographical Drama/Documentary
Directed by Catarina Vasconcelos, this Portuguese film is a poetic and introspective exploration of the director’s own family history and the passage of time. It weaves together family photographs, home movies and personal narratives to create a visual and emotional tapestry that reflects on generations of her family and their connections.
The film is celebrated for its unique storytelling approach and its ability to evoke deep emotions while examining themes of love, death and grief, as well as the enduring bonds that tie families together across generations.
3.“Democracia em Vertigem” (“The Edge of Democracy”)
Year: 2019
Genre: Documentary
This documentary delves into the political turmoil and upheaval in Brazil in recent years. The film explores the rise and fall of political leaders, including Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Dilma Rousseff, as well as the impact of corruption scandals, protests, and polarization on Brazilian society.
“The Edge of Democracy” provides a gripping and intimate look at the complexities of democracy, power and the challenges faced by a nation navigating its political future.
4. “A Última Floresta” (“The Last Forest”)
Year: 2021
Genre: Documentary
This Brazilian documentary film explores the Amazon rainforest, focusing on the indigenous Yanomami people who inhabit this remote and threatened environment. The documentary sheds light on their traditional way of life, the challenges they face due to deforestation and external threats, and their efforts to protect their land and culture.
“The Last Forest” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of the crucial importance of preserving the Amazon rainforest and the indigenous communities that call it home.
5. “7 Prisioneiros” (“7 Prisoners”)
Year: 2021
Genre: Drama/Crime/Thriller
This movie tells the story of Mateus, a young man from the countryside of Brazil, who takes a job at a junkyard in São Paulo, only to discover that the job involves exploitative and illegal practices. The film delves into themes of human trafficking, forced labor and the harsh realities many vulnerable individuals face in search of employment.
“7 Prisoners” offers a gripping and socially relevant narrative that sheds light on the plight of marginalized workers caught in a cycle of exploitation and abuse.
6. “Pelé”
Year: 2021
Genre: Documentary
If you’re a soccer fan, this one is a must-watch. The documentary explores the life and career of the legendary Brazilian soccer player Pelé. It offers an intimate and comprehensive look at Pelé’s journey, from his humble beginnings in Brazil to becoming one of the greatest footballers in history.
The film features interviews with Pelé himself, as well as archival footage and interviews with those who have known and admired him throughout his remarkable career. “Pelé” is a tribute to the football icon and his enduring impact on the sport and the world.
7. “Alice Júnior” (“Alice Junior”)
Year: 2019
Genre: Comedy/Drama
This film follows the story of Alice, a transgender teenager and YouTuber, who moves from the vibrant Brazilian city of Recife to a small, conservative town in the south with her father. There she must attend a Catholic school where she’s bullied by her new classmates.
As she navigates the challenges of adolescence and her gender identity, Alice takes on her new environment with humor, resilience and determination. The film offers a heartfelt and entertaining exploration of gender diversity and the complexities of growing up.
It’s only available on Netflix until October 13, so watch it before it’s gone!
8. “Tudo Bem no Natal que Vem” (“Just Another Christmas”)
Year: 2020
Genre: Comedy
If you love funny holiday movies, this might be the one for you. The film tells the story of Jorge, a man who despises Christmas and all its festivities. However, he finds himself stuck in a time loop, reliving Christmas Day over and over again. Through these repetitions, Jorge learns valuable lessons about love, family and the true meaning of the holiday season.
The film combines humor and heartwarming moments to deliver a unique take on the Christmas genre, offering a message of self-discovery and redemption.
9. “Depois do Universo” (“Beyond the Universe”)
Year: 2022
Genre: Romantic Comedy/Drama
This film follows the journey of Nina, a gifted pianist battling lupus. While awaiting a kidney transplant, she forms an unexpected, strong connection with one of the doctors on her care team named Gabriel. Through his support and encouragement, Nina gains the confidence to perform alongside a major orchestra in São Paulo.
While some might find this movie a bit cheesy, others will enjoy its dramatic storyline and musical theme.
10. “Colegas” (Buddies)
Year: 2012
Genre: Comedy/Drama
This film tells the story of three friends with Down syndrome who decide to escape from the care institution where they live in order to fulfill their dreams. They embark on a journey across Brazil, encountering various adventures and challenges along the way.
“Buddies” is a heartwarming and humorous exploration of friendship, independence and the pursuit of one’s aspirations, offering a unique perspective on the lives and capabilities of individuals with Down syndrome.
11. “Cidade de Deus: 10 Anos Depois” (“City of God: 10 Years Later”)
Year: 2013
Genre: Documentary
This documentary revisits the real-life subjects of the acclaimed 2002 Brazilian crime drama “Cidade de Deus” (“City of God”). The film features interviews and updates with some of the individuals who inspired the original film, shedding light on their lives, experiences and the impact of “City of God” on their communities.
It provides insight into the lasting effects of poverty, violence and crime in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro and offers a deeper understanding of the social issues portrayed in the original movie.
12. “Cabras da Peste” (“Get the Goat”)
Year: 2021
Genre: Comedy/Action/Crime
This Brazilian film follows the story of two police officers, Diana and Claudio, who are tasked with transporting a prized goat to a rural community. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn as they face various challenges and comical situations.
“Get the Goat” combines humor and adventure as it explores the unlikely bond between the officers and their misadventures during the goat transport. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something lighthearted and entertaining.
13. “Ricos de Amor” (“Rich in Love”)
Year: 2020
Genre: Romantic Comedy
This Brazilian rom-com tells the story of Teto, a wealthy young man from a sugar cane family, who falls in love with Paula, a charming and humble woman. Teto hides his wealth, pretending to be poor, in order to win her heart.
However, when the truth is revealed, their relationship faces challenges. “Rich in Love” explores themes of love, class differences and the importance of honesty in relationships, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Brazil’s northeastern countryside.
If you like this one, check out the sequel “Ricos de Amor 2” (“Rich in Love 2”).
14. “Kardec”
Year: 2019
Genre: Biographical Drama
This Brazilian film portrays the life of Allan Kardec, a renowned French educator and writer who’s considered the founder of Spiritism. The movie delves into Kardec’s journey as he investigates and documents spiritual phenomena, eventually leading to the development of Spiritism as a philosophical and religious movement.
“Kardec” explores his dedication to exploring the unknown, his interactions with spirits and his commitment to spreading the principles of Spiritism. It provides insight into the man behind the movement and the enduring influence of his work.
15. “Chatô: O Rei do Brasil” (“Chatô – The King of Brazil”)
Genre: Biographical Drama
16. “O Matador” (“The Killer”)
Genre: Western/Action/Thriller
17. “Esposa de Aluguel” (“Someone Borrowed”)
Year: 2022
Genre: Romantic Comedy
In this film, a bachelor named Luiz is enjoying his single life when he gets a surprise from his mom: she only has six months to live, and her dying wish is that he find a wife.
In order to appease her, Luiz hires an actress to play his fiancé. As with most schemes, it doesn’t go exactly as planned. The movie has plenty of humorous moments as the fake couple struggles to maintain the facade and Luiz’s jealous sister starts spying on them.
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Genre: Drama
20. “No Ritmo da Fé” (“In the Rhythm of Faith”)
Year: 2023
Genre: Drama/Romance/Music
This Brazilian film follows Camila, a young aspiring musician who gets mugged on the street and loses her belongings, including her beloved guitar. Reeling from the incident, she meets a Christian woman named Graça who invites her to play in her son’s Christian band.
This new adventure brings her on a journey of spirituality, love and music. This is another one of those movies that be Oscar-worthy but will surely entertain you and pull your heartstrings a bit. You’ll need a VPN set to Brazil or another Latin American country to watch it.
Learning Portuguese with Netflix Movies
Never discount the learning potential of your favorite forms of entertainment. Similar to cartoons, songs and podcasts, movies can be your gateway towards immersive learning.
All you have to do is get creative with how you tap into this awesome resource. So here are a few quick tips to get those reels rolling:
- Always ease yourself into active listening. Turn on the subtitles, but only use them until you’re feeling confident with your listening skills. In other words, don’t become too dependent on those English-language translations on your screen.
- Supplement your knowledge with the resources you have available. Supplementing movies with resources like language courses or immersion programs helps you get a well-rounded language learning experience. You can use a program like FluentU to get more familiar with new words you come across while watching video clips from authentic Portuguese media.
- Read the movie synopsis. Try searching Wikipedia or IMDB for the movie plot to ensure you’re not getting lost in translation. Similarly, watching the previews on YouTube will help you get the gist of things and provide you with a bit more listening practice.
- Have some fun! Browse through Netflix and other streaming platforms to find Portuguese movies that fit your interests. With so much great content available, you don’t have to watch anything that doesn’t interest you!
And that’s a wrap! We’ve given you more than enough to keep you busy, right?
In case you do run out of options, you can find more Portuguese movies here.
Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)
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