Gabriel Domingues Played a Key Role in Recreating 1970s Brazil for 'The Secret Agent' by Kleber Mendonça Filho

Wagner Moura is receiving widespread acclaim for his performance as a researcher whose life is disrupted by Brazils dictatorship in the late 1970s in Kleber Mendona Filhos film The Secret Agent. While Mouras role has drawn much attention, the films true strength lies in the carefully assembled ensemble, meticulously cast by Filho and casting director Gabriel Domingues.

We spent extensive time defining each character, Domingues explained. Kleber had detailed descriptions for everyone, even those with brief appearances. While this provides a guideline, it also makes casting extremely precise, as we needed actors who matched his vision perfectly.

Because the movie is set in the 1970s, Domingues faced additional challenges in finding actors who could embody the era authentically. Our goal was to capture the look and feel of 1978 Brazil, he said. This meant selecting faces that felt naturally part of that time, reflecting not just emotions but also social and economic distinctions of the period. Brazils social inequalities were more pronounced then, so casting had to consider the roles people held and their backgrounds, Domingues added.

Physical traits also influenced casting choices. Certain modern appearances, tattoos, or skincare treatments can make actors feel contemporary, which doesnt suit a period film, he said.

Sometimes, it was subtle qualities that mattered most. For a character of a teenager estranged from his parents, Domingues chose an actor whose eyes conveyed a distinct melancholy reminiscent of the 1970s and a simplicity appropriate for someone from the countryside.

One particularly challenging role was that of a hitman pursuing Marcelo. Kleber wanted him to resemble a notorious 1970s serial killer. We used archival footage as reference, Domingues noted. The actor they ultimately selected captured the cold, unsettling presence required for the role.

Many supporting roles were filled with emerging talent, some appearing in their first film. The character of a transcriptionist, crucial in piecing together Marcelos story, was awarded after an impressive audition. Laura Lufsis performance in her audition tape moved us deeply. We gave her space to explore the scenes, and she delivered a powerful monologue, Domingues said.

Balancing experienced actors like Moura with newcomers required careful consideration. The main criteria were talent and character. We wanted people who were not only skilled actors but also positive contributors to the energy of the set. Thats essential when building such a large ensemble, Domingues emphasized.

Author: Aiden Foster