18 Holes to Paradise
What to do with Dad’s house? With a fire ravaging the region, the discussion is becoming heated.
A family with a long history (and many members) gathers around a table in a mansion in southern Portugal. The region has transformed from a depressed area into a thriving tourist destination. Kisses, hugs, and greetings quickly turn into complaints and reproaches surrounding the big issue: What should be done with Daddy’s house? It is a tempting piece of cake, laden with rich family memories. But progress cannot be stopped.
As the conversation heats up, a wildfire gets out of control and devastates the whole area. “18 Holes to Paradise” is a multi-character story that explores the various perspectives and voices that shape our society. At its core, the film is about the fire – both literal and metaphorical – that is born from predatory thinking, a mindset that continues to dominate and drive us toward an abyss. A vibrant and engaging reflection on the fragility of land, society and human connection. It is a story born in Portugal, but one that speaks urgently to the global condition we all share.
By combining social and environmental concerns with an assured and intimate cinematic approach, the director presents us with a dynamic family drama that could be the story of the whole world.
Javier Garcia Puerto
João Nuno Pinto (1969) was born in Mozambique, but moved to Portugal at the age of five. He worked as an art director in advertising and studied directing at the New York Film Academy. After directing several television commercials, he gained attention with his debut feature, “America” (2010), which offers a perspective on contemporary Portugal through the eyes of illegal immigrants. The film won multiple awards at film festivals worldwide and was widely acclaimed for its fresh and humanistic approach to migration. “Mosquito” (2020), a story about a young man who fought in the First World War in Mozambique, was inspired by his grandfather's life. Pinto is now based in Lisbon.
Filmography:
América (2010), Mosquito (2020), 18 Buracos para o Paraíso (18 Holes to Paradise, 2025)
Grand Prix for The Best Film, grant of 20 000 euros from the city of Tallinn, Award for Best Director, grant of 5000€ from Alexela
