A compelling, unconventional political thriller depicts a country entangled in violence, corruption, and vendettas. However, with its time jumps, historical references, nods to horror, and the outstanding performances of a strong cast, The Secret Agent is also an impressive tribute to the lives destroyed by a dictatorship.
 

With The Secret Agent, Kleber Mendonça Filho proves himself to be one of the most interesting filmmakers of the moment. This unconventional political thriller is set in 1977 and interweaves several storylines. The film offers an impressive look at personal and collective memories of Brazil's violent history.

The Secret Agent is set during the military dictatorship in Brazil. As a widower and professor, Armando (Wagner Moura) tries to escape political persecution and, together with other refugees, finds shelter in Recife. Meanwhile, his son is being raised in the same city by his father-in-law. Elza, the leader of an underground resistance movement, realises that Armando's situation is more precarious than he realises and offers to help him flee the country.