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Best Walter Salles Movies
13th Nov 2025
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Walter Salles, the visionary Brazilian director, has gifted us with a remarkable cinematic journey, exploring themes of displacement, cultural exchange, and the human spirit. His films are celebrated for their poetic storytelling, stunning visuals, and ability to evoke profound emotional resonance. From the sun-drenched landscapes of his road movies to the intimate dramas that delve into the depths of human connection, Salles’ work consistently captivates and inspires. Now, it's your turn to reflect on the best films from this acclaimed director. Which of Walter Salles' masterpieces have resonated most deeply with you? Which characters, stories, and moments have left an enduring impression? Cast your votes below and let us know which of his films you consider the absolute best. We want to hear your opinions and celebrate the cinematic brilliance of Walter Salles together.
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#11.
On the Road (2012)
11/15
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"On the Road (2012)" perfectly encapsulates the restless spirit and search for meaning that defines the Beat Generation. Dean Moriarty, the charismatic and impulsive catalyst, and Sal Paradise, the introspective writer, embark on a frenetic journey across the American landscape, chasing that elusive "It" - a feeling of pure, unadulterated experience. Their quest unfolds as a whirlwind of jazz clubs, literary gatherings, and fleeting encounters, a chaotic yet exhilarating roller coaster that reflects the highs and lows of a generation grappling with societal norms and searching for something more profound. The film captures the raw energy and intellectual ferment of the era, driven by a vibrant soundtrack and stunning visuals of the American West. Walter Salles' adaptation of Kerouac's iconic novel earns its place among his best films because it showcases his signature strengths as a filmmaker. Salles has a proven ability to translate journeys of self-discovery onto the screen, capturing the emotional core of his characters amidst sweeping landscapes. Like "The Motorcycle Diaries" and "Central Station," "On the Road" uses a physical journey as a metaphor for internal transformation. He masterfully evokes the atmosphere of the Beat era, not just through visuals but also through the film's rhythm and pacing, mirroring the improvisational nature of jazz and Kerouac's stream-of-consciousness writing style. While the film faced some criticism for its faithfulness to the source material, Salles' dedication to capturing the spirit of Kerouac's vision and his ability to draw powerful performances from his cast solidify its position as a compelling and worthwhile entry in his filmography.
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I'm Still Here (2024)
"I'm Still Here (2024)" earns its place on the "Best Walter Salles Movies" list due to its masterful execution of his signature themes: identity, displacement, and the transformative power of self-discovery. While distinct from his previous works in its focus on a contemporary, globally connected individual navigating the complexities of modern existence, the film resonates deeply with Salles' established exploration of characters confronting personal crises and forging their own paths. The film is a poignant portrayal of finding belonging in a world of constant flux. Furthermore, "I'm Still Here" showcases Salles' continued brilliance in eliciting nuanced and emotionally resonant performances from his cast. His skillful direction transforms a narrative of personal struggle into a universal story of resilience and the enduring human spirit. The film demonstrates his ability to capture the essence of a character's internal journey and translate it onto the screen with both vulnerability and power.
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Central Station (1998)
"Central Station" (1998) is an emotive journey following Dora, a cynical and hardened former school teacher who ekes out a living writing letters for illiterate people at Rio de Janeiro's bustling Central Station. Her life is irrevocably changed when she becomes entangled with Josué, a young boy whose mother, one of Dora's clients, tragically dies in a bus accident right before her eyes. Initially reluctant, Dora eventually embarks on a cross-country quest with Josué to find his father, a man he has never known, leading them through the poverty-stricken landscapes of Brazil's Northeast and forcing Dora to confront her own past and rediscovering her humanity along the way. This film earns its place among Walter Salles' best due to its profound exploration of human connection, resilience, and the search for belonging. It showcases Salles' signature neorealist style, blending authentic locations and non-professional actors with a deeply moving narrative. The film's strength lies in the powerful performances of Fernanda Montenegro as Dora, earning her an Academy Award nomination, and Vinícius de Oliveira as Josué, creating a believable and heart-wrenching bond that resonates deeply with the audience. "Central Station" not only captured the raw beauty and harsh realities of Brazil but also cemented Salles' reputation as a master storyteller capable of crafting intimate and universally relatable human dramas.
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The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
"The Motorcycle Diaries" is based on the journals of Ernesto "Che" Guevara, chronicling his transformative journey across South America in 1952. He and his biochemist friend Alberto Granado embarked on a ramshackle motorcycle, traversing Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Venezuela. This expedition, initially a youthful adventure, evolved into a profound awakening for Guevara. Witnessing stark poverty, social injustice, and the exploitation of indigenous populations ignited a revolutionary spirit within him, setting him on the path towards becoming the iconic figure he would later become. The film beautifully captures the landscapes and cultures of the region, showcasing the bonds of friendship and the burgeoning social consciousness of a young man on the cusp of history. "The Motorcycle Diaries" firmly secures its place among Walter Salles' best works for its masterful blend of intimacy and epic scope. Salles' direction perfectly balances the personal journey of Guevara with the broader social and political context of Latin America. His signature neo-realist style brings an authentic feel, immersing the audience in the sights, sounds, and struggles of the people Guevara encounters. The film isn't just a biopic; it's a powerful coming-of-age story, a nuanced portrayal of a continent, and a testament to the power of empathy and social change, all hallmarks of Salles' profound and thoughtful filmmaking.
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Behind the Sun (2001)
"Behind the Sun (2001)" is a stark and powerful drama set in the harsh Brazilian badlands of 1910. Tonho, bound by an archaic code of honor, is tasked by his father with avenging his older brother's death, a act that will inevitably trigger a reciprocal act of violence and seal his own fate. Torn between the weight of tradition and the desire for a different path, particularly influenced by his younger brother Pacu, Tonho finds himself at a crossroads. The arrival of a traveling circus offers a glimpse of a world beyond the cycle of vengeance, forcing him to confront the consequences of his predetermined destiny and question the very foundations of his family's existence. This film earns its place among Walter Salles' best works due to its masterful portrayal of internal conflict against a backdrop of societal pressure. Salles expertly uses the desolate landscape to mirror Tonho's isolation and the suffocating nature of the feud. The film is a visual poem, filled with breathtaking cinematography that captures both the beauty and brutality of the sertão. More importantly, "Behind the Sun" showcases Salles' ability to explore universal themes of duty, freedom, and the devastating consequences of violence through the lens of a specific cultural context, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.
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Foreign Land (1995)
"Foreign Land (1995)" tells the poignant story of Paco, a young Brazilian whose life is shattered by his mother's sudden death amidst the country's economic turmoil of the mid-90s. Desperate and with no future in sight, Paco decides to fulfill his mother's wish and journey to Portugal, her homeland, seeking a fresh start. In this foreign land, he navigates the challenges of cultural adjustment and economic hardship, finding unexpected love and confronting unforeseen dangers as he grapples with his identity and the meaning of home. "Foreign Land" is a quintessential Walter Salles film, earning its place among his best works for its sensitive exploration of themes that resonate throughout his career. It showcases Salles's signature neo-realist style, focusing on the struggles of ordinary people against a backdrop of social and economic upheaval. The film's nuanced portrayal of displacement, identity, and the search for belonging, combined with its compelling narrative and strong performances, solidifies its position as a powerful and enduring example of Brazilian cinema and a highlight in Walter Salles's filmography. It exemplifies his talent for capturing the human spirit in the face of adversity, a hallmark of his most celebrated works.
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Linha de Passe (2008)
"Linha de Passe" (2008) offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of a struggling family in the bustling periphery of São Paulo. At its heart is Cleuza, a resilient single mother juggling pregnancy and a demanding job as a maid for a middle-class household. The film intricately weaves the stories of her four sons, each navigating their own challenges: Dênis, the eldest, burdened by the responsibility of a young child and the dangers of his work as a motorcycle courier; Reginaldo, a devoutly religious bus conductor yearning for a more fulfilling life; Dario, a talented young soccer player with dreams of escaping poverty; and Sandro, grappling with petty crime and a desperate search for identity. "Linha de Passe" is a powerful portrayal of resilience, family bonds, and the everyday struggles for survival in the margins of Brazilian society. "Linha de Passe" rightfully earns its place among Walter Salles's best works due to its masterful execution of themes central to his cinematic vision. Salles, known for his socially conscious and humanistic storytelling, expertly crafts a narrative that exposes the harsh realities of poverty and inequality in Brazil, mirroring the unflinching social commentary seen in films like "Central Station." While Salles co-directed this film with Daniela Thomas, its DNA is undeniably Sallesian, showcasing his signature style of intimate character studies, naturalistic performances, and a deep empathy for marginalized communities. The film's authentic portrayal of family dynamics, the exploration of aspirations against a backdrop of limited opportunity, and its subtle yet powerful social critique, solidify its position as a significant contribution to Salles's already impressive filmography.
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Jia Zhangke, A Guy from Fenyang (2014)
"Jia Zhangke, A Guy from Fenyang (2014)" offers an intimate and revealing portrait of one of contemporary cinema's most vital voices. The documentary follows director Jia Zhangke as he revisits the landscapes that have shaped his filmmaking, the very locations where he crafted his groundbreaking narratives like "Platform," "Still Life," and "A Touch of Sin." Through conversations with his actors, friends, and key collaborators, Jia unpacks the inspirations behind his unflinching depictions of modern China. More than just a filmmaker's retrospective, the film becomes a poignant reflection on a nation undergoing seismic change, offering glimpses into the complexities and contradictions of a society in constant flux. While "Jia Zhangke, A Guy from Fenyang" might seem an unusual fit for a list of "Best Walter Salles Movies," its inclusion stems from Salles's role as the film's producer. Salles, known for his own deeply humanistic and observational films like "The Motorcycle Diaries" and "Central Station," recognized the importance of Jia's work and lent his support to this insightful documentary. By producing "Jia Zhangke, A Guy from Fenyang," Salles actively championed a filmmaker whose vision resonates with his own commitment to exploring complex social realities and capturing the spirit of marginalized communities. It demonstrates Salles's influence extending beyond directing, highlighting his curatorial eye in bringing significant cinematic voices to a wider audience.
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Midnight (1998)
"Midnight" (1998), directed by Walter Salles and Daniela Thomas, offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of two individuals on the cusp of a new millennium. On the eve of December 31st, 1999, a chance encounter throws together Wagner Moura as the unnamed fugitive prisoner, desperately seeking escape and a new life, and Fernanda Torres as the disillusioned middle-class teacher Ana, grappling with personal anxieties and the overwhelming weight of societal expectations. As the world anticipates the arrival of 2000, a symbol of hope and fresh beginnings, these two souls find themselves unexpectedly intertwined, their destinies momentarily aligned by the shared uncertainty and unspoken yearning for a better future. "Midnight" deserves a place on the list of "Best Walter Salles Movies" due to its powerful and intimate portrayal of human connection amidst societal upheaval. While Salles often explores broader themes of political turmoil and social injustice in his films, "Midnight" stands out for its focused character study and its exploration of personal struggles against the backdrop of a nation's collective anticipation. The film's masterful use of cinematography, evocative soundtrack, and the exceptional performances from Moura and Torres contribute to its lasting impact, showcasing Salles' ability to create deeply moving and resonant narratives that explore the complexities of the human spirit. The themes of hope, redemption, and the search for meaning, prevalent throughout Salles' filmography, are beautifully distilled in this intimate and compelling drama.
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Krajcberg - O Poeta dos Vestígios (1987)
While "Krajcberg - O Poeta dos Vestígios (1987)" might not be a fictional narrative in the vein of "Central Station" or "The Motorcycle Diaries", it's a vital piece of Walter Salles' filmography that reveals a recurring theme: the exploration of identity through landscape and memory. This documentary, focused on the Polish-Brazilian artist Frans Krajcberg, showcases Salles' keen eye for visual storytelling and his ability to connect profound themes to specific environments. It captures Krajcberg's deeply personal connection to the Brazilian landscape, particularly the devastation of the Amazon rainforest, and how that trauma translates into his powerful, evocative art. The film's emphasis on ecological devastation and the artist's search for meaning in the face of destruction aligns directly with Salles' larger interest in the complexities of Brazilian identity and the impact of historical and environmental forces on individual lives. Furthermore, "O Poeta dos Vestígios" demonstrates Salles' dedication to portraying marginalized voices and perspectives, a characteristic present in many of his celebrated works. Krajcberg's art, born from a deep sense of loss and a commitment to environmental advocacy, is presented with sensitivity and respect, allowing the artist's personal journey to resonate with broader audiences. The film offers a glimpse into Salles' artistic process, showcasing his ability to use documentary filmmaking to explore themes of memory, trauma, and the human connection to the natural world – elements that consistently define his cinematic style. By highlighting the powerful relationship between art, environment, and personal history, "Krajcberg - O Poeta dos Vestígios" firmly establishes itself as a critical and insightful work within Walter Salles' filmography, deserving its place amongst his "best" films.
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A Grande Arte (1991)
"A Grande Arte (Exposure)" is a critical entry in Walter Salles' filmography, solidifying his ability to craft compelling narratives deeply rooted in Brazilian social realities. While perhaps not as widely celebrated as some of his later works, the film showcases Salles' emerging talent for weaving together complex themes of poverty, violence, and the search for redemption. Based on Rubem Fonseca's novel, the film follows an American photographer in Rio de Janeiro who becomes entangled in a web of murder and corruption, forcing him to confront the stark disparities of the city and question his own motives. This exploration of social inequalities, coupled with Salles' evocative visual style and nuanced character development, establishes key elements that would become hallmarks of his later, more acclaimed films. Beyond its thematic relevance, "A Grande Arte" demonstrates Salles' early mastery of atmospheric filmmaking and his ability to elicit strong performances from his cast. The film's gritty depiction of Rio's underbelly, combined with the simmering tension of its thriller plot, creates a palpable sense of unease that draws the viewer into the protagonist's moral struggle. The film also serves as a crucial step in Salles' development as a filmmaker, showcasing his willingness to tackle challenging subject matter and experiment with cinematic language. While perhaps less polished than his later masterpieces, "A Grande Arte" deserves recognition for its ambition, its social commentary, and its contribution to Salles' distinctive cinematic voice, making it a vital piece of the puzzle in understanding his trajectory as one of Brazil's most important filmmakers.
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On the Road (2012)
"On the Road (2012)" perfectly encapsulates the restless spirit and search for meaning that defines the Beat Generation. Dean Moriarty, the charismatic and impulsive catalyst, and Sal Paradise, the introspective writer, embark on a frenetic journey across the American landscape, chasing that elusive "It" - a feeling of pure, unadulterated experience. Their quest unfolds as a whirlwind of jazz clubs, literary gatherings, and fleeting encounters, a chaotic yet exhilarating roller coaster that reflects the highs and lows of a generation grappling with societal norms and searching for something more profound. The film captures the raw energy and intellectual ferment of the era, driven by a vibrant soundtrack and stunning visuals of the American West. Walter Salles' adaptation of Kerouac's iconic novel earns its place among his best films because it showcases his signature strengths as a filmmaker. Salles has a proven ability to translate journeys of self-discovery onto the screen, capturing the emotional core of his characters amidst sweeping landscapes. Like "The Motorcycle Diaries" and "Central Station," "On the Road" uses a physical journey as a metaphor for internal transformation. He masterfully evokes the atmosphere of the Beat era, not just through visuals but also through the film's rhythm and pacing, mirroring the improvisational nature of jazz and Kerouac's stream-of-consciousness writing style. While the film faced some criticism for its faithfulness to the source material, Salles' dedication to capturing the spirit of Kerouac's vision and his ability to draw powerful performances from his cast solidify its position as a compelling and worthwhile entry in his filmography.
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Dark Water (2005)
"Dark Water (2005)" is a chilling supernatural horror film directed by Walter Salles, transplanting the Japanese original to the grim landscape of New York's Roosevelt Island. The story centers on Dahlia Williams (Jennifer Connelly), a struggling single mother embroiled in a bitter divorce, who seeks a fresh start in a dilapidated apartment building. Plagued by financial constraints and the emotional turmoil of her impending divorce, Dahlia finds the low rent and proximity to a good school for her daughter Cecelia (Ariel Gade) too tempting to resist. However, their new home quickly becomes a source of mounting dread as they encounter a series of unsettling events, most notably a persistent and inexplicable leak from the ceiling of Cecelia's bedroom, hinting at a deeper, more sinister presence within the building. While often overlooked amidst Salles' other critically acclaimed works, "Dark Water" earns its place on a list of his best films for its masterful translation of his signature filmmaking style to the horror genre. Salles maintains the melancholic and deeply humanistic focus that permeates his other works, using the supernatural elements to explore themes of parental sacrifice, emotional trauma, and the insidious effects of urban decay. The film's claustrophobic atmosphere, achieved through masterful cinematography and sound design, amplifies the psychological torment of Dahlia as she fights to protect her daughter while grappling with her own demons. Though a remake, "Dark Water" is distinctively a Walter Salles film, imbued with his characteristic sensitivity and nuanced storytelling, elevating it beyond typical horror fare and solidifying its place among his most notable achievements.
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Where Has the Time Gone? (2017)
"Where Has the Time Gone? (2017)," while not directed solely by Walter Salles, earns its place on a list of his best works due to his undeniable influence and the film's thematic resonance with his signature style. Salles directed one of the five short films that comprise the anthology, entitled "Jia Zhangke." His contribution focuses on the celebrated Chinese filmmaker as he captures a family reunion during the Spring Festival, highlighting the generational differences and the impact of rapid modernization on traditional Chinese life. This aligns perfectly with Salles' overarching exploration of societal change, familial bonds, and the search for identity in a rapidly evolving world, themes deeply embedded in his most acclaimed films. Furthermore, the overall project itself speaks to Salles' commitment to cross-cultural dialogue and celebrating global perspectives. He acts as a prominent figure within the project, lending his prestige and experience to elevate the voices of fellow filmmakers from across the globe. "Where Has the Time Gone?" allows Salles to participate in a larger conversation about the human experience, mirroring the broad scope and social consciousness found in his landmark films like "The Motorcycle Diaries" and "Central Station." His presence and artistic vision, even as part of a collective effort, solidify its place within the canon of his best work, demonstrating his continued engagement with impactful and globally relevant narratives.
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Terra
"Terra" is an essential inclusion in any list of Walter Salles' best films because it perfectly encapsulates his signature documentary style, characterized by its deep empathy and unflinching portrayal of social and environmental realities. The film acts as a vital historical document, capturing the harrowing experiences of indigenous communities in Brazil battling for survival against deforestation, land encroachment, and cultural erasure. Salles eschews simple narratives, allowing the voices of the marginalized to resonate powerfully, offering a nuanced and heartbreaking perspective on the destructive impact of modernization and the relentless struggle to preserve a way of life. Beyond its documentary merits, "Terra" showcases Salles' profound understanding of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The film doesn't just present facts and figures; it delves into the emotional and spiritual resilience of the indigenous people, highlighting their deep connection to the land and their unwavering determination to protect their heritage. This emotional depth, coupled with Salles' masterful cinematic eye for capturing both the beauty of the Amazon and the harsh realities of its destruction, makes "Terra" a poignant and unforgettable film, cementing its place among his most important and impactful works.
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The Man in the Rockefeller Suit
"The Man in the Rockefeller Suit" is not actually a film directed by Walter Salles, nor does it feature in his filmography. The book of the same name, written by Mark Seal, is a true crime story about Christian Gerhartsreiter, a German con artist who impersonated members of the Rockefeller family. Therefore, it cannot be considered one of the "Best Walter Salles Movies." Perhaps there's a misunderstanding or confusion with another project. Walter Salles is primarily known for his narrative feature films and documentaries, particularly those exploring themes of identity, displacement, and social realism in Brazil and beyond. He is celebrated for movies like "Central Station," "The Motorcycle Diaries," and "Dark Water," which are all demonstrably distinct from the true crime narrative of "The Man in the Rockefeller Suit." If you're looking for films sharing similar themes or styles, focusing on Salles' actual filmography would be a more accurate approach.
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