Apocalypse in the Tropics

2024 [PORTUGUESE]

Action / Documentary / History

9
Rotten Tomatoes Critics - Certified Fresh 91% · 44 reviews
Rotten Tomatoes Audience - Upright 87% · 100 ratings
IMDb Rating 7.5/10 10 2713 2.7K

evangelical christianity political intrigue  political corruption televangelist brazilian politics political

720p.WEB 1080p.WEB 1080p.WEB.x265
1013.58 MB
1280*536
Portuguese 2.0
PG-13
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23.976 fps
1 hr 49 min
Seeds 5
2.03 GB
1920*804
Portuguese 5.1
PG-13
Subtitles us  ar  cn  hr  cz  dk  nl  es    fi  fr  de  gr  il  hu  id  it  ja  kr  ms  no  pl  pt  ro  sv  th  tr  uk  vi  
23.976 fps
1 hr 49 min
Seeds 21
1.84 GB
1920*804
Portuguese 5.1
PG-13
Subtitles us  ar  cn  hr  cz  dk  nl  es    fi  fr  de  gr  il  hu  id  it  ja  kr  ms  no  pl  pt  ro  sv  th  tr  uk  vi  
23.976 fps
1 hr 49 min
Seeds 11

Movie Reviews

Reviewed by RaviOliveira 8 / 10

Apocalypse in the Tropics

Synopsis: The role of the evangelical movement in Jair Bolsonaro's rise to the presidency is explored with commentary from key figures across the Brazilian political spectrum, including Bolsonaro's leftist predecessor and successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and televangelist Silas Malafaia, a close associate of Bolsonaro.Review: "Apocalypse in the Tropics" stands out as a provocative work that delves into the complexities of the intersection between religion and politics in contemporary Brazil. Directed by Petra Costa, the documentary examines how the evangelical movement not only influenced but also catalyzed Jair Bolsonaro's rise to the presidency, raising alarming questions about the presence of a potential theocracy in the country.Throughout the film, the director uses a compelling narrative, packed with interviews with key figures in the Brazilian political scene. The contrast between figures like Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Silas Malafaia enriches the analysis, providing a comprehensive overview of the tensions and alliances that permeated this discourse. Petra's skill in weaving this argument with personal and social elements makes the subject accessible and relevant, even for those unfamiliar with Brazilian politics.One of the documentary's most compelling points is its exploration of the role of evangelical churches in manipulating the vote and building a solid base of support for Bolsonaro. The footage illustrates how these religious groups have become a formidable force in politics, empowering conservative ideals while simultaneously challenging fundamental democratic notions.However, despite the strength of its approach and the relevance of the topic, the documentary could have benefited from a deeper exploration of the social consequences of the rise of the gospel in politics. The narratives presented, while impactful, sometimes lack a broader development that considers the diversity of opinions within the evangelical movement itself and the repercussions on disadvantaged populations. This lack of nuance can leave the viewer with a somewhat one-sided view that fails to fully grasp the complexity of the issue.Furthermore, some moments when emotions override critical analysis can weaken the argument. While the urgency of the topic justifies an alarming tone, it is essential that the narrative maintain a balance between emotion and critical analysis so that the viewer can form an informed opinion.In short, "Apocalypse nos Trópicos" is a documentary that raises essential reflections on the future of democracy in Brazil in light of the growing influence of evangelicalism. With an engaging production and a highly relevant theme, it sparks a necessary debate, but to be truly impactful, it could have delved deeper into some of its themes and broadened the perspective presented. This analysis reminds us that open dialogue and a plurality of voices are essential at such decisive moments in a country's political history.
Reviewed by GiuliaF-34 8 / 10

Another very good and timeless documentary by Petra. A bit slower than The Edge of Democracy, but worth watching to understand the parallel between religion and politics in Brazil. This is a parallel that can be drawn in other countries, but it's more evident today in Brazil with evangelical churches. For those who say it's biased, it also shows the Brazilian left's dilemma with religion, which is very complex and often contradictory. It could be faster, more dynamic. Less Malafaia and more about the role of these churches on both sides, despite being more evident in the Brazilian far right. I liked it, and watched this to my Polish wife, it was very interesting but could be deeper than what was showcased.
Reviewed by paul-allaer 8 / 10

Chilling examination on Brazil's rapid transformation on the far right

As "Apocalypse In the Tropics" (2024 release; 119 min) opens, the movie's director, Petra Costa, herself Brazilian, recounts in a voiceover how surprised she was upon returning there in 2016 to fins that Brazil's political landscape was rapidly transforming as a result of the record growth of evangelicals (from 5% to 30% in the last 40 years). Costa decides to look into this phenom and was granted wide access. At this point we are 10 minutes into the movie.Couple of comments: Oscar-nominated documentarian Petra Costa ("The Edge of Democracy") brings another highly-charged political documentary. This time reflecting on how evangelicals have overtaken the hard right, resulting in the astonishing election of Bolsonaro in 2018, and all the things that came after that. If is a fascinating watch. I was vaguely familiar with much of this, but to see it laid out as precise and clear as Costa does here, it all pits it into a new perspective. Also this: Bolsonaro copies pretty much every move by Trump, with a two year delay. Absolutely amazing. Please note that Brad Pitt is one of the movie's Executive Producers."Apocalypse in the Tropics" premiered at the Venice Film Festival in August, 2024, to immediate and universal critical acclaim. It is now streaming on Netflix, where I caught it just the other night. The documentary is currently rated 92% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and for good reason. If you are interested in geopolitics, or in the ever-growing influence of evangelicals, in this case in Brazil, over the political scene, I'd readily suggest you check this out and draw your own conclusion.
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