Backdrop preview A Ilha dos Cães backdrop
A Ilha dos Cães

A Ilha dos Cães (2017)

Apr 20, 2017 1h 17m Adventure Drama Horror

Two Angola, the colonial and the contemporary, spaced 60 years, share the curse of a mysterious island. In the past, the epicenter of the tragedy is an evil fortress, tomb of revolutionaries deported from the mainland. In the present, the building of a luxurious resort awakens the relentless jaw of justice. Soon after, workmen lacerated dead bodies, begin to appear. The horror spreads rapidly. Pedro Mbala is sent to the island to solve the problem. His target is a pack of stray dogs.

Directed by Jorge António

Cast

View All
Nicolau Breyner
View Profile
Nicolau Breyner

as Patrão

Ciomara Morais
View Profile
Ciomara Morais

as Lena

Júlio Mesquita
View Profile
Júlio Mesquita

as Finalmentes

Ângelo Torres
View Profile
Ângelo Torres

as Pera D'Aço

Daniel Martinho
View Profile
Daniel Martinho

as Garcia

Welket Bungué
View Profile
Welket Bungué

as Mpenda

José Eduardo
View Profile
José Eduardo

as Fontes

João Cabral
View Profile
João Cabral

as Chefe Bordalo

Miguel Hurst
View Profile
Miguel Hurst

as Pedro Mbala

Matamba Joaquim
View Profile
Matamba Joaquim

as Preso 1

Giovanni Lourenço
View Profile
Giovanni Lourenço

as Preso Julito

Crew

Director
  • Jorge António
Producer
  • Jorge António
  • Ana Costa

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

This Adventure/Drama/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. A Ilha dos Cães presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.

Director Jorge António brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of A Ilha dos Cães took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: April 20, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 17m

Similar Movies