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The Secret Agent Opens in U.S. Theaters After Cannes Wins

Brazil selected the film as its Oscar entry following Cannes acclaim.

Overview

  • Neon releases Kleber Mendonça Filho’s political noir in limited U.S. theaters on Nov. 26.
  • Set in 1977 Recife, the story follows a fugitive academic navigating Brazil’s dictatorship through a mix of thriller, satire, and surreal flourishes.
  • Wagner Moura’s lead turn earned CannesBest Actor, with Mendonça Filho taking Best Director, after high-profile stops including the New York Film Festival.
  • Reviews are strongly positive, with critics praising its distinctive visual style, period immersion, and Moura’s performance.
  • Cinematographer Evgenia Alexandrova shaped the tactile 1970s look using period Panavision B-series lenses, while the cast includes Udo Kier in a noted late-career appearance.