Brazil is basking in the glow of international recognition as its film industry secures multiple nominations at this year’s Academy Awards, marking a historic moment for the country’s cultural exports. Millions of Brazilians are expected to tune in to the ceremony at Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre, hoping to see their nation strike gold for the second consecutive year.
The thriller The Secret Agent has earned four nominations, including a groundbreaking nod for Wagner Moura as best actor — the first Brazilian ever in that category. Moura, who already won a Golden Globe this season, represents a new wave of Brazilian talent breaking into Hollywood. Meanwhile, cinematographer Adolpho Veloso is nominated for his work on Train Dreams, further cementing Brazil’s growing reputation in global cinema.
This recognition comes on the heels of last year’s triumph, when I’m Still Here won Brazil’s first Oscar for best international feature film. The back-to-back success has sparked national pride and underscored the country’s emergence as a serious player in the entertainment industry.
Government support and industry growth
Behind Brazil’s cinematic rise lies two decades of government investment. The national cinema agency Ancine injected a record $267 million into the sector last year, fueling a surge in film production, international collaborations, and opportunities from streaming platforms eager to expand in Latin America.
Exports of Brazilian audiovisual services grew 19% annually between 2017 and 2023, reaching $507 million. Analysts suggest Brazil could follow South Korea’s path, where government-backed content exports have become a multibillion-dollar industry.
Yet, uncertainty looms. With elections approaching, some fear that conservative leaders skeptical of arts funding could roll back support. Director Kleber Mendonça Filho, whose The Secret Agent benefited from early government programs, warned that many careers depend on such initiatives.
Streaming boom and global reach
The rise of streaming has accelerated Brazil’s cultural footprint. Netflix reported a 60% increase in global views of Brazilian content in late 2025, with hits like Rulers of Fortune and Caramelo captivating audiences worldwide. Warner Bros Discovery and Amazon have also invested heavily, producing local dramas and soap operas that resonate domestically while finding crossover appeal abroad.
Executives highlight Brazil’s engaged audiences as a key driver. “Brazil is among Netflix’s main markets,” said Elisabetta Zenatti, vice president for content at Netflix Brazil. “Our audience is extremely engaged, shaping fandom and conversations globally.”
Cultural legacy and future prospects
Brazil’s cinematic journey has been marked by milestones, from Fernanda Montenegro’s best actress nomination in 1999 to the global acclaim of City of God in 2004. Today, the industry is experiencing what experts call a “perfect storm” of maturity, talent, and compelling storytelling.
Recent Oscar contenders also reflect Brazil’s reckoning with its past, exploring themes tied to the country’s military dictatorship. For Moura, the ability to share these stories globally is transformative. “To think that Brazilians can export culture too is beautiful,” he said.
As Brazil celebrates its Oscar spotlight, the challenge ahead lies in sustaining momentum amid political and economic uncertainties. For now, the nation’s filmmakers are proving that Brazil is not only a land of rhythm and tropical allure but also a rising force in global entertainment.
(Reuters)
