Wagner Moura Reveals His Top Four International Films

Wagner Moura, widely recognised for his chilling portrayal of Pablo Escobar in the acclaimed Netflix series Narcos, has recently found himself at the centre of awards season buzz. His performance in The Secret Agent has not only earned him the nation’s submission for ‘Best International Feature’ at the Academy Awards, but also a string of honours, including a ‘Best Actor’ win at Cannes, and nods from the Critics’ Choice Awards, Golden Globes, and the New York Film Critics Circle. Moura’s compelling work in The Secret Agent is a testament to his depth as an actor, a quality honed through years of experience both in front of and behind the camera. His directorial effort, the political thriller Marighella, further cements his reputation as a versatile talent. Given his extensive career spanning global productions, it’s hardly surprising that his personal film favourites reflect a diverse cinematic landscape.

Italian Masterpieces and the Joy of Cinema

Among Moura’s top picks is Il Posto, a gem of Italian neorealism directed by Ermanno Olmi. While the movement is often linked to earlier works like Bicycle Thieves and Germany, Year Zero, Olmi’s 1961 film was celebrated for its deft mix of humour and poignancy, earning accolades at the Venice International Film Festival. This choice may seem a touch unconventional, but Moura also selected a more universally cherished title: Cinema Paradiso. This heartwarming coming-of-age tale follows a Sicilian boy growing up near a magical picture house. Though steeped in Italian cultural references, its affectionate tribute to the communal experience of film-going has resonated with audiences worldwide. In an era where the future of cinemas is uncertain, Cinema Paradiso feels, if anything, even more timely.

Brazilian Classics and Social Commentary

Turning to his homeland, Moura highlighted Iracema – Uma Transa Amazônica as “a spectacular film.” Released in 1974, around the same period depicted in The Secret Agent, this work stands as a key example of Brazil’s Cinema Novo movement. The film’s exploration of social themes and its focus on equality make it a powerful companion to Moura’s own recent projects, which also grapple with the resilience of Brazilian culture under oppressive regimes.

a spectacular film

Another Brazilian entry on his list is Terra Estrangeira, an action-driven piece directed by Walter Salles. Moura’s appreciation for this film is hardly surprising, given his own forays into genre cinema, including roles in The Gray Man and Civil War. Salles, a celebrated figure in Brazilian filmmaking, recently secured a Best International Feature Oscar for his latest work, I’m Still Here. With Brazil’s growing presence in the international film arena, Moura’s own The Secret Agent seems poised to continue this upward trajectory.

Wagner Moura’s Chosen Four

For those curious about his selections, here are Wagner Moura’s four all-time favourite films:

• Il Posto (Ermanno Olmi, 1961)
• Cinema Paradiso (Giuseppe Tornatore, 1988)
• Iracema – Uma Transa Amazônica (Jorge Bodanzky, Orlando Senna, 1981)
• Terra Estrangeira (Walter Salles, 1995)