PORTUGUESE CINEMA

A REFLECTION OF PORTUGUESE CINEMA’S DIVERSITY

This competitive section presents eight Portuguese film works offering unique perspectives on the national territory, exploring themes such as collective memory and the social transformations shaping Portuguese identity.

The competition unfolds across three consecutive sessions, each featuring films selected for their technical quality and thematic relevance. Audiences will have the opportunity to witness world and national premieres set to enrich Portugal’s cinematic landscape.

21st May | 9.30 PM – 11.30 PM | Sá da Bandeira Theatre

The National Competition opens on 21st May with the screening of "Maleza", directed by Carina Pierro Corso, followed by the world premiere of "Isto não é um jardim", by Marta Pessoa — a work offering a reflection on urban green spaces and their relationship with the community.

22nd May | 9.30 PM – 11.30 PM | Sá da Bandeira Theatre

The following day, the festival continues with "Quando a terra foge", directed by Frederico Lobo — a visual exploration of the transformation of the Portuguese landscape — paired with "Fogo do vento", the latest work by Marta Mateus, which delves into ancestral rituals from the country’s interior.

23rd May | 9.30 PM – 11.30 PM | Sá da Bandeira Theatre

The competition’s final night showcases four distinct works: the national premiere of "A viragem do milénio" , directed by Alberto Seixas; "Percebes" , an animation by Alexandra Ramires and Laura Gonçalves; "O jardim em movimento", by Inês Lima; and "O diabo do Entrudo", directed by Diogo Varela Silva — a film immersing viewers in Portugal’s carnival traditions.

The National Competition jury will evaluate the films and award prizes during the festival’s closing ceremony on 25th May.

TICKETS

Tickets for the National Competition screenings can be purchased at the Sá da Bandeira Theatre box office or via the BOL online platform.