Love and Drama Unfold in 'Hotel Amor' - A Must-See Portuguese Film

Hermano Moreira's second feature film, 'Hotel Amor', hits theaters this week with a stellar cast.

A blend of drama and comedy, this romantic comedy is set in a hotel on the brink of collapse, where all encounters, mishaps, and unforeseen events take place. Filmed in a single shot over 16 intense days at the iconic Hotel Roma in Lisbon, the movie showcases the hotel in full operation during filming.

Jéssica Athayde stars as Catarina, the protagonist whose life complicates when the hotel is sold, and her management is challenged by a new head (Vera Moura), determined to highlight her flaws. With an unenthusiastic team (including Júlia Palha as a receptionist more interested in her phone than guests) and the unexpected return of her ex (Francisco Froes), Catarina's past resurfaces.

The idea was born on the actual set when Brazilian director Hermano Moreira, a Portugal resident for eight years, filmed ads for the hotel. "I always found it fascinating to explore fictionally how such a small space like a hotel can bring together such a diverse group of people and the personal stories it allows to tell," he shared.

Shot in a record time of three weeks, with five days off, making 'Hotel Amor' was both a risk and a huge challenge. The hotel was fully operational, with guests, staff, and the film crew constantly crossing paths, especially challenging for single-shot sequences lasting up to 15 minutes.

Despite interruptions, the film's essence lies in its authenticity. "The hardest part is getting it right. Filming in a single shot prioritizes narrative over perfectionism," Moreira noted. He hopes the film entertains while prompting viewers to reflect on the modern work culture's obsession.