FRANCISCA

Based on Agustina Bessa-Luís’ acclaimed novel, itself inspired by a true story that occurred in the 19th century, Manoel de Oliveira’s Francisca recounts the life of a young man, a son of an English officer, who lets himself become a prisoner of love resulting in fatalism and disgrace. With its gorgeous cinematography, gloomy interiors, and show-stopping gala set-pieces, Francisca is one of the legendary director’s crowning achievements.

Francisca premiered in 1981 as an official selection in Director’s Fortnight at Cannes. The new 4K digital restoration of Francisca premiered at the 76th Venice Film Festival in 2019.