7 Brazilian films on Netflix for those who loved Caramelo

The success of Caramelo on Netflix showed that the Brazilian public is thirsty for simple, emotional and affectionate stories. The drama starring Rafael Vitti and the dog Amendoin entered the global Top 3 of most watched films on the platform and was number 1 among non-English language titles for the week. All of this with a 100% national plot, which combines sensitivity, humor and an honest portrait of everyday life.

The strength of Caramelo lies precisely in the way the film finds beauty in human relationships. The friendship between a chef and a caramel mutt is moving because it is real, close and universal. And the good news is that there are several Brazilian productions in the Netflix catalog that explore these same themes: family, love, new beginnings and unlikely connections.

From comedy to drama, national cinema has a vast repertoire of stories that touch the heart. These are films that mix humor and emotion, portray Brazil with sincerity and show the talent of some of the country’s biggest audiovisual names.

Just like Caramelo, these productions won over the public by balancing lightness and depth. They talk about bonds, the power of empathy and the value of small joys. Whether out of nostalgia, identification or pure curiosity, it’s worth revisiting these titles that marked an era and still excite.

Watch 7 Brazilian films on Netflix to follow the Caramelo mood:

1 – If I Were You (2006)

A couple (Glória Pires and Tony Ramos) swap bodies after a fight and need to deal with each other’s lives. In addition to the laughs, the film brings a fun reflection on empathy, marriage and coexistence.

2 – My Mother is a Piece (2013)

Dona Hermínia (Paulo Gustavo) is a hilarious and overprotective mother who, feeling rejected by her children, decides to rethink her life. The comedy mixes emotion and easy laughter when portraying the routine of an ordinary Brazilian family — and a mother’s unconditional love.

3 – 2 Children of Francisco (2005)

The trajectory of Zezé Di Camargo and Luciano comes to life in this moving drama about dreams, sacrifice and family love. An inspiring story that combines music, faith and perseverance.

4 – My Name Is Not Johnny (2008)

Based on a true story, the film follows João Guilherme Estrella (Selton Mello), a young middle-class man who becomes one of the biggest drug dealers in Rio de Janeiro in the 1990s. An intense, human and nuanced portrait.

5 – Basic Sanitation, The Movie (2007)

Residents of a small town in Rio Grande do Sul decide to make a film to raise public funds. The comedy directed by Jorge Furtado plays with the precariousness and creativity of the Brazilian people: an irresistible charm.

6 – What Time Does She Return? (2015)

Val (Regina Casé), a maid for a rich family, sees her life change with the arrival of her daughter. Anna Muylaert’s powerful drama exposes social inequalities with subtlety and emotion.

7 – Central do Brasil (1998)

Dora (Fernanda Montenegro) helps a boy look for his father in the interior of Brazil. One of the most exciting and award-winning films in the country, nominated for an Oscar and a symbol of our cinema in the world.