In this insightful interview, acclaimed Brazilian actor and filmmaker Wagner Moura discusses his latest project, a modern-day adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's 'An Enemy of the People'. Moura, who is known for his Oscar-nominated performance in 'The Secret Agent' and his role as Pablo Escobar in 'Narcos', delves into the themes of truth, resistance, and the impact of the past on the present, particularly in the context of Brazil's dictatorship and the rise of far-right politics.
Moura explains that the play's sequel, 'A Trial — after An Enemy of the People', brings the audience into the courtroom alongside the protagonist, Thomas Stockmann, as they decide whether he is an enemy of the people. The play explores the consequences of speaking truth to power and the ongoing struggle for truth in a world where journalism and truth-telling are under threat. Moura's personal connection to this theme is evident, as he was born during the Brazilian dictatorship and has witnessed the lingering impact of authoritarian rule.
The interview touches on the controversial Amnesty Law that followed the dictatorship, which forgave those who committed atrocities during that period. Moura argues that this law contributed to the rise of Bolsonaro, a far-right politician who admired the dictatorship and dedicated his vote to the torturers of Dilma Rousseff. Moura emphasizes the importance of remembering the truth of the dictatorship to prevent such authoritarianism from recurring. He also highlights the role of education in shaping the narrative of the past, noting that historical revisionism was prevalent during his childhood.
Moura's work, including his film 'Marighella', aims to shed light on the resistance movements in Brazil, which are often overlooked. He believes that the decline of journalism and the rise of technology have further complicated the quest for truth. The actor and filmmaker concludes by emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue and education about the past to ensure a more democratic and just future, especially in the face of rising authoritarianism and the erosion of truth.
