The actor Wagner MouraMarcelo’s interpreter in the film “The Secret Agent”which opens in theaters on November 6, shared his reflections on the importance of preserving historical memory through national cinema, highlighting especially the relevance of documenting Brazilian popular uprisings.
He emphasized his particular interest in narratives that address popular movements, noting that these stories are often presented in a peculiar way in the context of Brazilian historiography.
Historical documentation
Moura praised the director’s meticulous approach, highlighting his historiographical perspective in documenting the events. The film, which begins with a photographic sequence, is highlighted by the actor as an “extraordinary work” in the field of historical portrayal.
In his analysis, Moura highlighted that the responsibility of preserving national memory is not restricted to cinema alone, but extends to journalism, academia and society as a whole.
“We have an obligation to preserve our memory, so that we grow, so that we understand each other, so that we see each other”, he stated.
“The Secret Agent” takes place in Brazil in the 1970s, when Marcelo, a technology expert in his early 40s, is on the run. He arrives in Recife during Carnival week, hoping to reunite with his son, but soon realizes that the city is far from being the non-violent refuge he seeks.
In addition to Wagner Moura, the film stars Maria Fernanda Cândido (“Our Land”), Gabriel Leone (“Senna”), Isabel Zuaa (“The Devil’s Knot”) and Alice Carvalho (“Reborn”).
“The Secret Agent” is already chosen to represent Brazil at the Oscars. The title will be in contention for a place in the Best International Film, and is quoted by experts mainly for the category of Best Actor, for the performance of Wagner Moura.