
The Cannibals 1988
"A drama following stories of characters from the Portuguese High Society."
Dive into the enigmatic world of *The Cannibals (1988)*, a surreal drama from visionary Portuguese filmmaker Manoel de Oliveira that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality.
Director: Manoel de Oliveira
Cast




Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Cannibals (1988) about?
This visually opulent drama follows the intertwined lives of Portugal's elite, particularly the story of Viscount d'Aveleda and Marguerite as their wedding becomes a stage for unexpected, darker revelations. The film blends operatic grandeur with eerie undercurrents, unfolding like a dream—or a nightmare—where societal norms are both celebrated and subverted.
Who directed The Cannibals?
The Cannibals was directed by the legendary Portuguese auteur Manoel de Oliveira, known for his uncompromising artistic vision and contributions to world cinema.
Who stars in The Cannibals?
The film features Luis Miguel Cintra, Leonor Silveira, Diogo Dória, Oliveira Lopes, and Pedro T. da Silva in its ensemble cast.
Is The Cannibals (1988) worth watching?
While not a mainstream film, The Cannibals offers a mesmerizing experience for fans of avant-garde cinema and opera lovers. Its surreal narrative and Oliveira's distinctive style make it a cult favorite, though its abstract nature may not appeal to all viewers. If you're drawn to films that challenge conventions, this one's worth seeking out.
How long is The Cannibals?
The Cannibals has a runtime of 95 minutes.
About The Cannibals (1988) — Where High Society Meets Surreal Opera
Dive into the enigmatic world of *The Cannibals (1988)*, a surreal drama from visionary Portuguese filmmaker Manoel de Oliveira that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. This film, a striking example of direct-to-celluloid opera, weaves a tale of high-society intrigue set against a lush backdrop of 19th-century romanticism and modernist experimentation. With a runtime of just 95 minutes, *The Cannibals* unfolds through the eyes of a host-narrator, guiding viewers into the opulent yet unsettling world of Viscount d'Aveleda and the bewitching Marguerite as their love story spirals into darker, unexpected territory. Oliveira's signature style shimmers here, blending operatic grandeur with eerie undercurrents, making it a must-watch for fans of avant-garde cinema.
The atmosphere is one of decadent elegance, where every frame feels like a painting and every line of dialogue resonates with deliberate artistry. The Portuguese High Society serves as both a stage and a character, its rigid norms and hidden passions clashing beneath the surface. As the narrative unfolds, the film's unique fusion of music and storytelling creates an experience that's as haunting as it is hypnotic, leaving audiences to ponder its deeper meanings long after the credits roll. *The Cannibals* isn't just a film—it's an immersive journey into the psyche of love, power, and the uncanny.