The recent victory of the Brazilian film “The Secret Agent” in the Best Non-English Language Film category at the Golden Globes reignites discussions about how national cinema addresses internal political issues. Set during the military dictatorship, the film directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho brings to light a historical period that continues to generate debates in Brazilian society. Analysis is by Julliana Lopes at Hour H.
The international recognition of the film occurs at a time when Brazil is still processing discussions about, as highlighted by the Policy analyst of CNN. “The message is that this story makes sense for us to export, for us to show what happens. It comes at a time of a political debate here in Brazil that continues to be a dictatorship”, he stated, relating the film’s theme to the recent trials over coup plots in the country.
Repercussion on social media
On social media, “The Secret Agent” provoked divisions among viewers of different political views regarding the way it portrayed the period of the military dictatorship. This phenomenon, according to experts consulted by CNN Brazildemonstrates the importance of political debate also takes place in the cultural sphere. “Historically, national cinema deals with Brazilian issues, internal issues and political issues”, highlighted Julliana Lopes.
That of Brazilian cinema happens due to multiple factors. Firstly, due to the growing interest of the foreign public in Brazilian political issues. Secondly, for a new approach in publicity campaigns for national films at international awards. And, not least, for the undeniable talent of Brazilian professionals, not only in acting, but also in all stages of film production.
For specialists in the audiovisual sector, Brazil once again occupies a prominent place at the world cinema table in a more authoritative way, using its own history as raw material for productions that gain global recognition. It reinforces that, as Kleber Mendonça Filho said, “when Brazil tells its story, the world wants to listen.”
