The Secret Agent (2025)

Content by Tony Macklin. Originally published on February 11, 2026 @ tonymacklin.net.

The Secret Agent (O Agente Secreto) is a film in search of a plot.

It is 161 minutes in length and doesn't reach a semblance of plot until one of the characters tells the major character Armando (Wagner Moura) that "Elza is the most important character in the story."

That's halfway through the film.

The Secret Agent is set in 1977, when Armando escapes to his hometown in search of safety and his past. It is Recife, Brazil, and the country is controlled by the military. Armando is in constant danger.

The Secret Agent is a well-made film, written and directed by Kleber Mendonca Filho. One should stay for the credits. They include a nice surprise for some viewers.

Wagner Moura gives a strong performance as Armando. There are several supporting performances that contribute positively. Among them are Tania Maria as Armando's 77-year old mentor and Maria Frenanda Candido as a resistance leader.

There are consistent carnival sequences.

They dance around a circuitous plot.