The Kiss 1981
"It wasn’t the first kiss... neither the first time"
Brazilian cinema's bold 1981 thriller *The Kiss* weaves a gripping narrative around a single act of compassion that spirals into scandal.
Director: Bruno Barreto
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Kiss (1981) about?
The film follows Arandir, a gentle clerk who kisses a dying stranger after a tragic accident—only to become the target of a scandalous conspiracy led by a manipulative photographer and a corrupt police chief. What begins as an act of kindness spirals into a damaging fall from grace, exposing the brutality of societal prejudice.
Who directed The Kiss?
Bruno Barreto directed *The Kiss*, bringing a sharp eye for character-driven tension and social critique to this 1981 Brazilian thriller.
Who stars in The Kiss?
The lead roles are filled by Ney Latorraca as Arandir, Tarcísio Meira as the photographer Amado Pinheiro, and Christiane Torloni in a standout supporting performance.
Is The Kiss (1981) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, *The Kiss* is a taut, thematically rich drama that rewards viewers with its atmospheric tension and sharp social commentary. Its concise 80-minute runtime keeps the narrative tight, making it ideal for fans of crime-thrillers with depth.
How long is The Kiss?
*The Kiss* runs for 80 minutes—just over an hour and a half of suspense and drama.
About The Kiss (1981) — Where Love Becomes a Crime in a Single Moment
Brazilian cinema's bold 1981 thriller *The Kiss* weaves a gripping narrative around a single act of compassion that spirals into scandal.
Directed by Bruno Barreto, the film unfolds when humble clerk Arandir rushes to embrace a fatally injured stranger—a spontaneous gesture of pure empathy. But when opportunistic photographer Amado Pinheiro and a ruthless police chief seize on the moment, they twist a moment of kindness into an accusation of homosexuality. Set against the morally charged backdrop of 1980s Brazil, *The Kiss* explores themes of societal prejudice, media exploitation, and the fragility of human dignity. With its tense pacing and layered performances, this crime-drama thriller delivers a chilling reflection on how quickly innocence can be weaponized. A provocative exploration of perception, power, and the price of empathy, it remains a compelling watch for fans of atmospheric cinematic storytelling.