Amor Estranho Amor Love Strange Love 1982 English Dubbed Awesome Movie Best [RECOMMENDED]
A significant reason for the film's enduring popularity—especially in the age of internet rediscovery—is the casting of Xuxa Meneghel. In Brazil, Xuxa is a cultural phenomenon, known as the "Queen of Shorties" and a beloved children's TV host. Her role as Tamara, a glamorous and seductive prostitute, was a radical departure from her public image.
For viewers watching the English dubbed version today, the performance stands on its own merits. Xuxa brings a statuesque, almost untouchable beauty to the screen. Her character serves as the primary catalyst for young Hugo’s awakening, and the dynamic between the child and the adult women is handled with a tension that is as uncomfortable as it is compelling.
Love Strange Love (Amor Estranho Amor) is a controversial and unsettling Brazilian drama from 1982 directed by Walter Hugo Khouri. The film follows the sexual awakening of young Hugo during a brief stay at a boarding house where he becomes entangled with adults whose behavior oscillates between erotic curiosity, manipulation, and emotional neglect. The movie’s notoriety stems from its explicit subject matter, transgressive themes, and a real-world legal controversy that later surrounded one of its cast members.
Tone and themes
Performances and characters
Cinematography, music, and style
Why watch (and when not to)
Examples of scenes that illustrate the film’s approach
English-dubbed versions — pros and cons
Context and controversy
Final assessment Love Strange Love is powerful precisely because it resists comfort: it asks viewers to sit with ambivalence, to watch how adults fail a child, and to reckon with the lingering emotional effects. In an English-dubbed format, the film can remain haunting if the dubbing preserves vocal nuance; otherwise, the translation may blunt the film’s moral and psychological impact. This is a film for viewers prepared to engage with difficult material rather than seeking entertainment.
(If you want, I can summarize key scenes, compare a specific English dub to the original Portuguese audio, or produce a short, spoiler-marked scene-by-scene breakdown.)
The 1982 Brazilian drama " Amor Estranho Amor " (Love Strange Love), directed by Walter Hugo Khouri, is a highly controversial piece of cinema primarily known for its notorious reputation in Brazil due to scenes involving a young boy and the famous Brazilian host Xuxa Meneghel. Availability and Format
While the original language is Portuguese, an English-dubbed version does exist.
VHS/DVD: You can find rare English-dubbed copies through niche retailers like J4HI and DVD Lady.
Dubbing Quality: Viewers on IMDb have noted that the English dubbing can be quite poor, often detracting from the "arty" tone the director intended.
Legal Status: The film was famously banned in Brazil for decades at the request of Xuxa, though it was eventually released in the U.S. on DVD in 2005. Movie Overview
Plot: The story follows an adult man, Hugo, who reminisces about 48 pivotal hours in 1937 when he was a teenager living in a high-class brothel managed by his mother, Anna (played by Vera Fischer).
Themes: It explores themes of budding sexuality, political turmoil in Brazil, and the loss of innocence within a surreal, sensual environment. Cast: Marcelo Ribeiro as young Hugo. Vera Fischer as Anna. Xuxa as Tamara, one of the brothel's workers. Why It's Considered a "Gem" by Some
Despite the heavy controversy, some film enthusiasts appreciate it for:
Cinematography: The film features "breathtaking visuals" and is considered more of a serious period drama than a standard exploitation film.
Historical Context: It captures a specific era of Brazilian cinema and society during a time of political change. Performances and characters
Rarity: Because it was suppressed for so long, it has gained a "must-see" status for collectors of rare and unusual world cinema. Love Strange Love (1982) DVD - J4HI
The Enigma of Amor Estranho Amor (1982) Directed by the legendary Walter Hugo Khouri, Amor Estranho Amor (Love, Strange Love) remains one of the most debated and legally embattled films in Brazilian history. Released in 1982, the film is a sensual, atmospheric period piece that explores the complex sexual awakening of a 12-year-old boy named Hugo. The Story: A Brothel Education
Set in 1937 São Paulo, the film follows young Hugo as he is sent by his grandmother to live with his mother, Anna (played by Vera Fischer), who resides in a high-end brothel frequented by powerful politicians.
Discovery: Initially overwhelmed, Hugo begins to view his surroundings with curiosity as the women of the house entice and educate him.
Political Intrigue: The film juxtaposes Hugo's awakening with the shifting political landscape of the era, showcasing a world where sex is used as a tool for power.
The "Strange Love": The central controversy involves a scene with Tamara (played by future children's superstar Xuxa Meneghel), where the boundaries of "adult" love and childhood innocence are blurred. Why It’s Considered a "Gem" by Fans
Despite its heavy themes, many viewers defend the film as an artistic masterpiece rather than mere exploitation:
The humid air of the 1930s estate felt heavy with secrets. Young Hugo, sent away to live in his mother’s opulent but isolated world, found himself a silent observer in a house where the lines between childhood innocence and adult obsession didn’t just blur—they evaporated.
His mother, Anna, moved through the corridors like a ghost of her own beauty, draped in silk and desperation. She was the mistress of a powerful man, but in the flickering candlelight of the mansion, she was merely a woman trying to cling to a fleeting sense of self. Hugo watched from the shadows, his wide eyes taking in the decadent parties, the hushed arguments, and the strange, magnetic pull of the adults around him.
The "strange love" wasn't just a phrase; it was the atmosphere. It was in the way the sunlight hit the mahogany floors and the way the laughter from the parlor sounded like a plea for help. As Hugo navigated this labyrinth of burgeoning desires and social taboos, he realized that the world he was being prepared for was far more fragile—and far more dangerous—than the fairy tales he had left behind.
In that house, love wasn't a comfort; it was a currency, a weapon, and a beautiful, tragic mistake that would haunt him long after the summer faded into memory. Should we explore a specific character’s perspective further, or would you like to focus on the visual aesthetic of the estate?
You're referring to the 1982 film "Amor Estranho Amor" (also known as "Strange Love" or "Love, Strange Love"), a Brazilian drama film directed by Arnaldo Pereira and Roberto Prado.
Here's a detailed report on the movie:
Plot The story revolves around a wealthy and influential businessman, Helmut (played by Wladimir Cirri), who has a complex and disturbing relationship with his daughter, Marta (played by Cláudia Cristina). The film explores themes of incest, power dynamics, and the psychological effects of their taboo relationship.
English Dubbed Version The English dubbed version of the film, which you mentioned, might have some differences in reception compared to the original Portuguese version. Dubbing can sometimes alter the viewing experience, as the voice acting and translation may not perfectly capture the nuances of the original performances.
Reception and Critical Response Upon its release, "Amor Estranho Amor" sparked controversy and debate due to its bold and unflinching portrayal of incest. The film received a mix of reviews from critics, with some praising its courage in tackling a taboo subject, while others found it disturbing or even misogynistic.
Legacy and Cultural Significance Over time, "Amor Estranho Amor" has gained a certain cult following and is now regarded as a significant work in Brazilian cinema. The film provides a glimpse into the country's social and cultural landscape of the 1980s, particularly in regards to the lives of the wealthy and powerful.
Technical Details
Availability The film might be available to stream or purchase on DVD/ Blu-ray through online marketplaces or specialty film stores. However, availability might vary depending on your location.
Recommendation If you're interested in watching "Amor Estranho Amor," I recommend being prepared for a thought-provoking and potentially unsettling viewing experience. The film's themes and content may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly those who are sensitive to depictions of incest or abuse.
Overall, "Amor Estranho Amor" is an interesting and significant film that can stimulate discussions about complex social issues, power dynamics, and the human condition. Cinematography, music, and style
Do you have a specific question about the movie or would you like more information on a particular aspect?
The story behind Amor Estranho Amor (1982) is famous less for its plot and more for its decades-long legal battle and the involvement of a major celebrity.
Set in 1937 Brazil, the film follows 12-year-old Hugo, who is sent to live with his mother in a high-class brothel. The story is told through flashbacks as an adult Hugo returns to the now-abandoned mansion to relive his sexual awakening, including a controversial encounter with a young woman named Tamara. The Real-World Controversy
The film's "interesting story" lies in its censorship history: The Xuxa Connection : Tamara was played by Xuxa Meneghel
, who was then a rising 19-year-old model. A few years later, she became Brazil's most famous children's TV host, the "Queen of the Little Ones". The 30-Year Ban
: To protect her wholesome image, Xuxa fought a fierce legal battle for decades to keep the film out of circulation in Brazil. For roughly 30 years, it was effectively banned in its home country, becoming a legendary "forbidden" movie. The Legal Victory
: In 2017, the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court finally ruled that the lawsuit was unfounded, lifting the ban. The film finally made its Brazilian television debut in 2021. Availability
While it was hard to find for years, the film was released on DVD in the United States in 2005. It is known internationally by its English title, Love Strange Love director Walter Hugo Khouri and his other surreal films, or are you looking for a specific platform to watch this movie?
Amor Estranho Amor (known internationally as Love Strange Love
) is a 1982 Brazilian erotic drama that remains one of the most controversial entries in Latin American cinema. Directed by Walter Hugo Khouri
, the film gained legendary status primarily due to the presence of Xuxa Meneghel
, who later became Brazil's most famous children's television host. Film Overview Release Year: Walter Hugo Khouri
Vera Fischer (Anna), Marcelo Ribeiro (Hugo), Xuxa Meneghel (Tamara), and Tarcísio Meira (Dr. Osmar). Accolades: Vera Fischer won Best Actress
at the 15th Festival de Brasília and received the Air France Award for her performance. Plot Summary
The story is framed as a memory of an adult Hugo returning to a mansion that was once a high-class brothel in 1937. Love Strange Love (1982) - IMDb
Amor Estranho Amor (English title: Love Strange Love) is a 1982 Brazilian erotic drama that remains famous for its intense controversy and rare English-dubbed versions. Key Movie Details Director: Walter Hugo Khouri.
Cast: Stars Vera Fischer, Tarcísio Meira, and the future Brazilian children's show host Xuxa Meneghel.
Plot: A man reminisces about his childhood discovery of sexuality while living in a luxury brothel run by his mother in 1930s Brazil.
Controversy: The film was famously banned in Brazil for years (1991–2018) due to scenes involving sexual themes with an 11-year-old child actor. English Availability
While the original language is Portuguese, you can find English options through specialized retailers:
English Dubbing: Existing VHS and specialized DVD versions from retailers like J4HI feature English dubbing, though some reviewers on IMDb describe the dub quality as "atrocious". a famous Brazilian critic
English Subtitles: If you prefer the original audio, versions with English subtitles are available at sites like DVD Lady. Love Strange Love (1982) - IMDb
The 1982 Brazilian film Amor Estranho Amor (Love, Strange Love) remains one of the most controversial and discussed pieces of cinema in Latin American history. Directed by Walter Hugo Khouri, the film gained international notoriety not just for its provocative themes, but for the decades-long legal battle led by its star, Xuxa Meneghel, to prevent its distribution. Plot Overview: A Journey into Memory
The story is told through the eyes of an adult Hugo (Walter Forster), a middle-aged politician who returns to a mansion in São Paulo that served as a high-class brothel during his childhood.
The Setting: In 1937, a young Hugo (Marcelo Ribeiro) is sent to live with his mother, Anna (Vera Fischer), who is a favorite at the luxurious establishment owned by an influential politician, Dr. Osmar (Tarcísio Meira).
The Conflict: Hugo is thrust into a world of adult sexuality and political intrigue. While his mother attempts to shield him, the other resident "girls" find the boy's innocence enchanting and begin to toy with his curiosity.
The Core Controversy: The film features scenes where adult women, most notably Tamara (Xuxa Meneghel), engage in erotic situations with the 12-year-old Hugo. Cast and Creative Team
The film featured some of the biggest names in Brazilian cinema at the time:
Vera Fischer (Anna): Her performance as Hugo’s mother earned her the Best Actress award at the Festival de Brasília.
Xuxa Meneghel (Tamara): Then a young model, Xuxa would later become "The Queen of Children," hosting a world-famous TV show. This role stood in stark contrast to her later persona, leading to her extensive legal efforts to suppress the film.
Marcelo Ribeiro (Hugo): The child actor who played Hugo. He later detailed his experiences in a book and interviews, noting that the set was mystical and the scenes were filmed with professional care. The Legal Legacy and Availability
For decades, the film was practically impossible to find in Brazil due to judicial injunctions. Xuxa eventually lost her lawsuits against Google and other entities to filter search results for the movie.
While it was banned for sale and marketing in Brazil, it was released on DVD in the United States in 2005. Fans and collectors looking for an English experience often seek out the English Subtitled DVD as official "English dubbed" versions are extremely rare or non-existent in modern retail. Critical Reception: "Awesome Movie" or "Dull Story"? Viewer opinions on Amor Estranho Amor are deeply divided:
Report Title: A Controversial Coming-of-Age Memory: An Analysis of Amor Estranho Amor (1982)
If you’ve stumbled upon the title Amor Estranho Amor (or Love Strange Love), you’ve likely seen two very different reactions online: either absolute fascination or raised eyebrows. Directed by Walter Hugo Khouri, this 1982 Brazilian drama is often sensationalized for one reason (the casting of a very young Vera Fischer and a pre-fame Xuxa Meneghel).
But for those in the know—especially fans of obscure, atmospheric cinema—the real Holy Grail isn’t just the film itself. It’s the legendary, hard-to-find English dubbed version.
Let’s cut through the noise. Here is your helpful guide to why this movie is an awesome, weird, and unforgettable experience, and why hunting down that English dub is worth the effort.
Is Love Strange Love a great movie? No. Is it an awesome experience? Absolutely.
It’s a sweaty, sad, beautiful, and bizarre snapshot of 1980s Brazilian cinema filtered through a VHS-to-YouTube lens. The English dubbed version turns the whole thing into a hypnotic artifact—a movie that plays like a half-remembered dream where everyone sounds like they’re in a 1950s Hollywood noir, even though they’re standing in a humid Rio brothel.
So grab a drink, dim the lights, and prepare your brain for something strange. Once you go Love Strange Love (English dub), you’ll never look at children’s TV hosts the same way again.
Have you seen the English dub? Found a better quality copy? Let the cult know in the comments below!
Critics in 1982 were divided. Some called it a masterpiece of psychological realism. Others labeled it child exploitation. Villaça, a famous Brazilian critic, noted that the film’s strength is its refusal to judge its characters. Khouri simply observes, like a fly on the wall of a nightmare.
Today, the consensus among cult film enthusiasts is clear: Love Strange Love is an essential, challenging, and visually stunning work. It is not for everyone. But if you are a collector of rare VHS gems, a student of international erotic cinema, or just someone who wants to see a children’s icon do something unthinkable, this is required viewing.
To call Amor Estranho Amor one of the best strange love movies requires context. It is not a romance. It is a horror movie disguised as a drama. Here’s why it stands with films like The Blue Lagoon, Picnic at Hanging Rock, or The Night Porter: