I Only Rest in the Storm: A Deep Dive into Pedro Pinho’s Powerful Exploration of Post-Colonial Dynamics

I Only Rest in the Storm (O Riso e a Faca) is a 2025 Portuguese drama film directed by Pedro Pinho. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025 and is set to be released theatrically in France on July 9, 2025. Co-produced by Portugal, France, Brazil, and Romania, the film delves into the complexities of post-colonial relationships and the impact of foreign intervention in West Africa.

The narrative follows Sérgio, a Portuguese environmental engineer, who travels to a West African metropolis to work for an NGO on a road project linking the desert to the forest. There, he becomes entangled in an intimate yet unbalanced relationship with two inhabitants of the city, Diára and Gui. As neo-colonial dynamics among the expatriate community unravel, this fragile bond becomes his only refuge from an impending collapse into solitude or barbarism.

I Only Rest in the Storm Release Date and Streaming Platform

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I Only Rest in the Storm is scheduled for theatrical release in France on July 9, 2025. While specific streaming platforms have not been announced yet, the film’s international acclaim at Cannes suggests it will be available on various platforms in the near future. For updates on its availability, keep an eye on official announcements and streaming service listings.

I Only Rest in the Storm Storyline – What’s the plot?

Set in an unnamed West African city, I Only Rest in the Storm follows Sérgio, a Portuguese environmental engineer, who arrives to assess the environmental impact of a proposed road project. The project aims to connect the desert to the forest, potentially altering the lives of local communities. Sérgio’s interactions with Diára, a local woman, and Gui, a Brazilian expatriate, lead him to confront the complexities of neo-colonialism and the ethical dilemmas faced by foreign aid workers.

As Sérgio navigates his role in the project, he becomes increasingly aware of the power dynamics at play. His relationships with Diára and Gui evolve, revealing the deep-seated inequalities and the challenges of bridging cultural divides. The film explores themes of identity, exploitation, and the moral ambiguities of foreign intervention in developing countries.

I Only Rest in the Storm Direction and Screenplay

Pedro Pinho, known for his previous work The Nothing Factory, directs and co-writes I Only Rest in the Storm. The screenplay, crafted by Pinho and Miguel Seabra Lopes, delves into the intricacies of post-colonial relationships and the ethical challenges faced by foreign aid workers. Pinho’s direction emphasizes realism and character depth, allowing the narrative to unfold organically and engage the audience in its complex themes.

The film’s pacing and structure reflect Pinho’s commitment to exploring the nuances of its characters and their environments. While some critics have noted the film’s lengthy runtime, many appreciate its deliberate approach to storytelling and the depth it brings to its exploration of neo-colonialism and personal identity.

I Only Rest in the Storm Acting and Characters

The film features a compelling cast, with Sérgio Coragem portraying Sérgio, Cleo Diára as Diára, and Jonathan Guilherme as Gui. Coragem’s performance captures the internal conflict of an outsider grappling with his role in a foreign land. Diára’s portrayal by Cleo Diára brings to life a character navigating the complexities of local society and her interactions with expatriates. Guilherme’s depiction of Gui adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the experiences of a Brazilian expatriate in a post-colonial context.

The chemistry between the lead actors enhances the film’s exploration of relationships shaped by cultural and power dynamics. Their performances provide insight into the personal struggles and societal pressures faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world. The characters’ development throughout the film underscores the themes of identity, belonging, and the impact of historical legacies.

I Only Rest in the Storm Music, Background Score and Visual Appeal

The film’s cinematography, led by Ivo Lopes Araújo, captures the stark contrasts of the West African landscape, from the arid desert to the lush forest. The visuals serve as a backdrop to the unfolding narrative, emphasizing the environmental and cultural dichotomies central to the story.

The music and background score complement the film’s tone, enhancing the emotional depth of key scenes. The soundtrack incorporates elements that resonate with the cultural setting, adding authenticity to the film’s atmosphere. Together, the visual and auditory elements work in harmony to immerse the audience in the film’s world and themes.

Should You Watch I Only Rest in the Storm? – My Final Verdict

I Only Rest in the Storm is a thought-provoking film that delves into the complexities of post-colonial relationships and the ethical dilemmas faced by foreign aid workers. Pedro Pinho’s direction and the strong performances by the cast bring depth to the narrative, making it a compelling watch for those interested in socially conscious cinema.

While the film’s lengthy runtime may be challenging for some viewers, its rich storytelling and exploration of pertinent themes make it a worthwhile experience. For audiences seeking a film that offers more than entertainment, I Only Rest in the Storm provides a reflective and engaging cinematic journey.

I Only Rest in the Storm Details Table

Attribute	Details
Title	I Only Rest in the Storm (O Riso e a Faca)
Director	Pedro Pinho
Cast	Sérgio Coragem, Cleo Diára, Jonathan Guilherme
Genre	Drama
Language	Portuguese
Country of Origin	Portugal, France, Brazil, Romania
Runtime	211 minutes
Release Date	July 9, 2025 (France)
Streaming Platforms	To be announced; check official listings for updates.

I Only Rest in the Storm Trailer

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