A 2020 poll by FilmSpot.pt gathered 122 Portuguese film professionals to elect the greatest Portuguese films of all time. It’s the kind of exercise that always makes for a fascinating entry point into a national cinema — and this top list proves the point.
The sharply curated Portugal, Land of My Dreams by Kenji is likely the most compelling list in this selection. A poetic ode to the country—“blessed land of warmth and beauty”—anchored by smart picks like Abraham Valley, Mysteries of Lisbon, Silvestre, Tabu, and Aniki Bobo. A must-see guide richly shaped by deep passion and cinematic knowledge.
A more specialized selection, this list brings together films from the Cinema Novo movement and the Centro Português de Cinema (CPC). Essential for exploring the depths of Portuguese cinema, it offers a comprehensive look at a pivotal period in the country’s film history.
Professional Alexandre Miguel Silva curates his favorite Portuguese fiction and documentary films on Letterboxd. With over 100 picks, this list is a treasure trove for anyone wanting to dive deep into Portugal’s cinematic landscape — and there’s plenty to discover.
The director of the beautiful Frágil como o Mundo shares her hidden gems of Portuguese cinema. A sharp eye, a precious selection — we trust her, and we watch.