Watch Preamar

Preamar is a Brazilian television series produced by HBO Latin America in partnership with Conspiração Filmes and directed by Estevão Ciavatta. The show debuted in June 2012 and ran for two seasons, concluding in November 2013. It follows the lives of a group of people who make their living by harvesting seafood in the coastal region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The show's title, Preamar, is a term used by Brazilian fishermen and refers to the highest tide of the year. This is a time of abundance in the sea, when the fishermen can often catch more fish and seafood than usual. However, outside of preamar, life can be more challenging for these fishermen, as they struggle to make ends meet and compete with larger commercial fishing operations.

At the heart of the show is João Ricardo Velasco, played by actor Henri Castelli. João is a former lawyer who has given up his previous life in the city to return to the coastal town where he grew up. João's father was a fisherman, and he sees potential in the local fishing industry to sustain the community and provide a better future for its residents.

Throughout the show, we see João navigate the challenges of bringing sustainable fishing practices to the town, including dealing with skeptical fishermen and navigating a legal system that favors commercial fishing operations. João also reconnects with his childhood friends, including his former girlfriend, Ana Clara (played by Letícia Sabatella), who is a marine biologist working to protect the local ecosystem.

In addition to João's story, the show also explores the lives of other local fishermen, including Gão (played by José de Abreu), who runs a local bar and is struggling to make a living, and Daniela (played by Priscila Assum), the owner of a seafood restaurant who is also looking to source her ingredients more sustainably.

The show's creators have emphasized the importance of accurately portraying the lives of Brazilian fishermen and the challenges they face. To that end, the show was filmed entirely on location in Rio de Janeiro, with many scenes shot in real fishing villages and on real fishing boats. The show also uses local actors and incorporates the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture into its storytelling.

One notable aspect of the show is its use of music. The show's soundtrack features a mix of Brazilian and international music, including samba, bossa nova, and indie rock. The songs are often reflective of the show's themes, with lyrics about the sea, nature, and the struggles of everyday life.

Overall, Preamar is a compelling and insightful look at the lives of Brazilian fishermen and the challenges they face in a changing world. The show's portrayal of sustainable fishing and its efforts to spotlight local culture make it a unique and valuable addition to the HBO Latino lineup.