Uma Pedra no Bolso

This  elegantly-photographed and picturesque Portuguese film is about a young teenager’s abrupt introduction to some of the realities of life. It was the directorial debut of Joaquim Pinto,  who is rapidly becoming one of Portugal’s foremost film-makers.

Miguel is a twelve- year old who isn’t performing well in school. As a punishment, he is sent to spend his summer vacation  to study at hotel by the sea run by his aunt. Miguel doesn’t like this, as nothing ever happens there.  Nevertheless, he makes two friends: Luisa, a young waitress  who teaches him to dance  and Joao, a young fisherman who destroys his innocence.  When a new visitor, Dr. Fernando, arrives in the quiet town, a theft occurs changing the idyllic peace.  Miguel finds himself in the middle of the quickly-changing turn of events.