The dubbing style, typical of the era, fits the dramatic, almost theatrical tone of the film’s scenes.
Because the film was legally suppressed in its home country for so long, international releases and foreign dubbed versions became crucial for preserving the movie. Foreign markets kept the film alive when it was systematically being buried in Brazil.
Now, about the : Usually, I’m a subtitle purist, but for this film, the dubbed version gives it an unexpected, almost surreal quality. The slightly off-kilter voice acting adds to the disorienting, nightmare-logic feel of the movie. It makes the already uncomfortable scenes feel even more artificial and dreamlike, which actually works in the film’s favor. The dialogue is melodramatic and stilted in a way that feels intentional.
He is intensely drawn to Tamara (Xuxa Meneghel), a 16-year-old prostitute who sees seducing the boy as a way to rebel against his mother, her rival. Through these encounters, Hugo’s innocence is irrevocably shattered as he discovers his own sexuality against the backdrop of political turmoil. The dubbing style, typical of the era, fits
The 1982 Brazilian erotic drama (internationally known as Love Strange Love ) is one of the most polarizing and legally embattled films in South American cinema history. Directed by Walter Hugo Khouri , the film transitioned from a scandalous "banned" movie to a cult classic, recently gaining renewed interest through digital restorations and specialized streaming releases. The Story: A Journey Through Memory and Sexuality
: The story focuses on Hugo’s attraction to Tamara (Xuxa), a young prostitute, and his complicated relationship with his mother, which eventually culminates in a controversial incestuous encounter. Themes and Cinematic Context
However, a word of caution: this is not a blockbuster adventure. The English dub is famously atrocious. User reviews on IMDb are merciless, noting that while the film might try for a serious tone, the laughably poor voice acting "does not help" and makes the often implausible plot seem absurd. For those determined to find the English dub, search queries often lead to rare film repository sites like "RareLust" or obscure download portals, where the file is listed specifically as "English Audio Dub Dvdrip". Now, about the : Usually, I’m a subtitle
The film's intense notoriety stems from a specific, highly controversial scene involving the young Hugo and Xuxa Meneghel, who plays a young woman named Tamara. Because Xuxa went on to become Brazil's most beloved, iconic children's television host ("The Queen of the Shorties"), she spent decades legally fighting to suppress the film, burying its distribution and inadvertently cementing its status as an elusive, forbidden piece of media. Cinematic Quality: Why It Is an "Awesome Movie"
The 1982 Brazilian film (released as Love Strange Love in international markets) is a controversial erotic drama that has gained a cult following primarily due to its legal history and the early performance of Brazilian children's television star Xuxa Meneghel. Plot Summary
Dubbing an arthouse Brazilian drama into English fundamentally alters its rhythm. The vocal performances in the English version often add an extra layer of surrealism to the already dreamlike, memory-focused narrative. The dialogue is melodramatic and stilted in a
The performances in "Amor Estranho Amor" are exceptional, with the lead actors delivering powerful and nuanced portrayals. Wladimir de Barros brings a sense of vulnerability and intensity to his character, Hugo, while Cristina Airoldi shines as Lilian, conveying a range of emotions from innocence to rebellion. The chemistry between the two actors is undeniable, making their on-screen relationship both captivating and unsettling.
The notoriety of Amor Estranho Amor is inextricably linked to Xuxa Meneghel. Shortly after the film's release, Xuxa transitioned from modeling to television, becoming Brazil's ultimate "Queen of Children" ( Rainha dos Baixinhos ). She hosted immensely popular children's variety shows, built a massive multimedia empire, and became a wholesome national icon.
If you're a fan of thought-provoking dramas, character-driven stories, or simply looking for a unique cinematic experience, "Amor Estranho Amor" is an excellent choice. This 1982 film has stood the test of time, and its themes remain relevant today. With its exceptional performances, masterful direction, and social commentary, it's no wonder that this movie has gained a cult following worldwide.