Ruben Alves film on Lisbon traditions premieres in Portugal

The new film “Santo António – Casamenteiro de Lisboa,” directed by Ruben Alves, is set to release in 53 Portuguese cinemas this week. The comedy explores the traditional Santo António weddings in Lisbon through the lens of love, identity, and the pressures of globalization and mass tourism.

Starring Rita Blanco and Joaquim Monchique, the story follows two long-time organizers of the traditional event who face the threat of being replaced by a foreign multinational company. The film features a large ensemble cast, including Lídia Franco, Rui Mendes, Maria Rueff, and Spanish actor Paco León.

Director Ruben Alves noted that the project allowed him to discover the rich, caricatured stories within this annual tradition. The narrative serves as a commentary on the transformation of Lisbon, addressing themes of gentrification and the potential loss of local cultural identity.