Movies by Lisa Barros D'Sa

Lisa Barros D'Sa is a bold and visionary filmmaker whose work blends insightful character studies with a keen social and political sensibility. Trained in both literature and screenwriting, Barros D'Sa brings a nuanced, literary touch to her films, crafting intimate portraits of ordinary people navigating the complexities of life. From the gritty, youth-driven drama of Cherrybomb to the tender romance of Ordinary Love, Barros D'Sa's filmography showcases her versatility and her ability to find the universal in the specific. Her 2012 breakout Good Vibrations, for instance, is a vibrant ode to the Belfast punk scene of the 1970s, using music as a lens to explore the region's turbulent history. More recently, Barros D'Sa's 2025 film Saipan offered a timely and compelling examination of the impact of climate change, weaving a human story into a broader global narrative. Regardless of setting or genre, Barros D'Sa's films are defined by their empathetic, character-driven approach. She brings a keen observational eye and a gift for naturalistic dialogue, allowing her stories and protagonists to quietly, organically come to life. As a director, she is unafraid to tackle complex themes and to give voice to marginalized perspectives, cementing her reputation as one of the most distinctive and socially conscious filmmakers working today.