Free Portuguese film night to celebrate Jersey’s Luso community

A free outdoor screening of Portuguese short films is set to take place in Jersey later this month as part of the 13th Parish Film Festival.

The event, titled Film Luso, forms part of Project Luso — a wider initiative celebrating Portuguese culture and community life across the island.

Islanders are being invited to Romerils car park on Wednesday 20 May for an evening of cinema, food and culture. Family-friendly children’s films will begin at 5.30pm, followed by screenings aimed at older audiences from 7.30pm, although organisers say all films remain suitable for younger viewers.

Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and can either stay for a single 15-minute short film or enjoy the full programme throughout the evening.

All films will be presented in Portuguese with English subtitles and have been selected by Miguel Dias, director of the Portuguese Short Film Agency.

Traditional Portuguese food, including cod croquettes and pastel de natas, will be available alongside popcorn, while attendees are also encouraged to bring and share their own snacks and dishes.

Arts organiser Sasha Gibb, who is leading Film Luso, said the event aimed to highlight the contribution of Jersey’s Portuguese community.

“We want to celebrate and make Portuguese culture more visible,” she said.

Gibb described the island’s Portuguese community as “hardworking” and deeply connected through family, food and culture.

“I’ve spent time speaking with people in schools, cafes, prisons and community spaces, and it’s such an appreciative and welcoming community,” she added.

Film Luso is one of several events taking place during this year’s 13th Parish Film Festival, running from 18 to 24 May, and also links to the Festival of Words programme later in the year.

The screenings have been guest-curated by Agência Curtas Metragens, Portugal’s national short film agency, whose representatives are expected to travel to Jersey to introduce the films and meet audiences.