Mar Branco

This is an amazing show-a tour de force of writing, acting, directing, filming, story-telling. The plotting is remarkable, in that it unfolds as it must have had to, but is surprising at every turn. It is a series fully aware of itself in the history of such movies as it mentions-Dirty Harry, Carlito's Way, even Matrix-but never derivatively. It's rammed with life, history, local and world culture. It's wicked and delightful all along, and every single performance, every line of dialogue and voiceover narration, hits home with the viewer and with the characters in the action. It's themes of poverty, the will of God, and the motives that animate the human condition suffuse every scene and shot and situation. Great too is the the use of language-Portuguese, Italian, English-and of the actors who move in and out of them as they work out their fates.

Rabo de Peixe is a true gem that effortlessly captures the spirit of community, resilience, and hope. Set in a picturesque Portuguese fishing village, this captivating series weaves together multiple narratives, delving into the lives of well-developed characters who feel like real people. The attention to detail in the set design and cinematography immerses us in the vibrant world of Rabo de Peixe, while tackling important social issues with grace. With top-notch direction and production values, this must-watch series creates an unforgettable viewing experience, portraying the strength of community and the power of dreams.

A couple of actors are really good in their roles in just the right balance between caricature and naturalism. Namely Rodrigo Tomas. Others, like Afonso Pimentel, are over-the-top and right down unbelievable, playing characters that behave as randomly as being catholic in one scene and muslim in the next. But the worst part is that some of the options taken by the directors are simply in poor taste: the cringe voice-over by Pepe Rapazote, the extended disco scenes, the exhausting drone shots, the fact that no-one so poor would look as fit and groomed as Jose Condessa or Helena Caldeira, the fact that almost nobody in the cast has the unmistakable accent of that particular island. In fact they mostly speak in a very metropolitan central-Portuguese accent. Moreover, the difference in quality between the episodes directed by Augusto Fraga and the ones directed by Patricia Sequeira is ENORMOUS, with her episodes very often lacking in ideas, structure (her cutting is absolutely random whereas Fraga's is almost cinematic), or rhythm. It doesn't help that she also gets the least eventful episodes, but still, what she chooses the do with them seems devoid of purpose and often borderlines the telenovela.

"Rabo de Peixe," a Portuguese series filmed on São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal, offers a gripping and thrilling narrative that captivates viewers from start to finish. Set in the small village of Rabo de Peixe, the story takes an unexpected turn when a ton of cocaine washes ashore, forever changing the lives of its inhabitants. The protagonist, Eduardo, a young fisherman, along with his closest friends, embarks on an impromptu business venture with the newly arrived Atlantic treasure. However, dealing with a ton of cocaine doesn't go unnoticed, and our characters find themselves entangled in a dangerous and unpredictable adventure, facing off against the drug lords, the police, and a host of unpredictable individuals. This series excels in keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The fast-paced storyline is filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and high-stakes encounters. It skillfully weaves together elements of action, drama, and even a touch of dark humor, ensuring an enthralling viewing experience that leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next episode. Not only does "Rabo de Peixe" offer an adrenaline-pumping narrative, but it also showcases the stunning beauty of São Miguel Island. The breathtaking landscapes of the Azores serve as a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the series. The stunning cinematography captures the essence of the island's natural splendor, making it an integral part of the storytelling. The cast delivers outstanding performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. Their portrayal of the emotions, struggles, and resilience of the villagers adds an emotional layer to the series. The chemistry among the actors is palpable, creating a believable dynamic that draws viewers deeper into the story. "Rabo de Peixe" tackles themes of courage, friendship, and the consequences of one's actions. It explores the complexities of small-town life and the unexpected challenges that arise when faced with extraordinary circumstances. The series offers a profound examination of the human spirit and the choices we make when pushed to our limits. In conclusion, "Rabo de Peixe" is a remarkable Portuguese series that combines an exhilarating plot, breathtaking scenery, and outstanding performances. It takes viewers on a thrilling and emotional journey through the lives of the villagers in Rabo de Peixe, as they navigate the dangerous world of drug trafficking. This series showcases the incredible talent of the Portuguese television industry and is a testament to its ability to create captivating and internationally appealing content.

Loved every bit of it! It is an addicting show, you can't just Watch one episode, It leaves you wanting more! In my opinion one of the best portuguese shows, portuguese ficcion is outdated to say the least, these guys did an amazing job! Seen some people complain about "excessive swearing" well as a portuguese the swearing felt very normal (unless you're from Lisbon and it scares you😂) portuguese people swear a lot, sorry!! Loved the actors performance even tho I didn't know one or two.

Regarding not using the accent from Azores people really need to understand that not even continentals can understand it, so it kinda makes sense for it to not be predominat with the main characters ( even tho they acc try to say some words) but most of the secondary characters and extras do have the accent ;)