Um S Marginal
Um S Marginal

Movie spotlight

Um S Marginal

1983
Movie
91 min
Portuguese

In the near future, along the Portuguese coast, a network of ocean and solar power transformers will be installed. With the ecological balance seriously threatened, domestic animals disappear from the cities and return to wildlife in upland areas. On hearing of his sister's death in a road disaster, Jorge tries to warn his father - who, meanwhile, leaves for a secretly kept house, as a refuge and resting place.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: José Fonseca e CostaGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A young woman arrives in Lisbon to confront her estranged mother, a once-prominent actress now living a secluded life. As she delves into her mother's past, she uncovers dark secrets and the complicated relationships that shaped their family. The film explores themes of identity, memory, and the lingering consequences of choices made.

Critical Reception

Um Sombra Marginal received a mixed to positive reception upon its release, with critics praising its atmospheric direction and strong performances, particularly from its lead cast. Some found the pacing deliberate, but overall, it was recognized as a significant work in Portuguese cinema for its exploration of complex psychological themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its intense atmosphere and psychological depth.

  • Recognized for strong performances from the main cast.

  • Some reviewers noted a slow pace but appreciated the thematic complexity.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce due to the film's age and limited international distribution, but available comments often highlight its brooding tone and emotional intensity.

Fun Fact

The film's production was notably challenging, with director José Fonseca e Costa facing difficulties securing funding and completing the post-production process due to the political climate in Portugal at the time.

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