The Secret Agent

The Secret Agent is an immersive political thriller which takes you back to Brazil, 1970s style. Wagner Moura plays a man on the run from some shady hit men ready to make him meet his maker, and some very convincing disguises help him along the way. Despite this trek nearing three hours, there are plenty of elements to keep you enthralled enough where you don't feel the pace go too off-balance, and this would likely have to do with how fascinatingly compelling it is. It's such a compelling story that leaves you guessing throughout- and admittedly, I'm still scratching my head with some threads... thank goodness for the rewatch option. Such an intriguing flick is complemented by a terrific cast of players (including Moura playing multiple characters with ease, Tânia Maria as a friendly, bubbly landlord who assists Moura, and - in a small role that would sadly be his last - Udo Kier as a Holocaust survivor), colorful scenery, and top-notch camerawork that adds to the film's overall charm. It's easy to see why this is a favorite for Best International Feature at this year's Oscars, and could rightfully take that honor up to task.