What It’s About
In 1977, with Brazil under a brutal military dictatorship, political refugee Armando (Moura) arrives in the town of Recife, moving into a safe house operated by Dona Sebastiana (Maria). Still mourning the untimely death of his wife (Carvalho) and looking for an escape route, he takes an anonymous job in an information center. He also reconnects with his former father-in-law, cinema operator Alexandre (Francisco), who’s raising Armando’s young son Fernando (Nunes). Will Armando/Marcelo ever make it out of Brazil?
Why We Love It
Filho’s offbeat, at times surreal thriller has characters and atmosphere to burn, and its 160 minute runtime speeds by. The Oscar-nominated Moura is sensational as a man vaguely aware that certain government-connected interests may want him dead. Trying to blend in, he’s also watchful, and an underlying dread permeates the film. Evocative set and costume design bring the period alive, and the whole cast delivers compelling performances, with Maria a standout as Dona Sebastiana. Udo Kier is also memorable in his final role. Don’t keep this “Agent” a secret.