Brazilian actor Wagner Moura, celebrated globally for his gripping roles in the series Narcos and the film Civil War , recently shared insights into his new film, The Secret Agent . The project marks a deeply personal and professional milestone for Moura, as he spoke Portuguese on the big screen for the first time in 12 years—an experience he described as “insane” and profoundly “liberating.”
The film is set in 1977, against the dark historical backdrop of Brazil’s military dictatorship, which spanned from 1964 to 1985. Moura portrays a man striving to maintain his moral principles within a repressive system while simultaneously trying to protect his son. He noted the role’s strong resonance with Brazil’s recent political environment, particularly under a far-right president who, he stated, actively opposed cultural and artistic endeavors. “This is a film that took place during the Brazilian dictatorship,” Moura explained. “I played this guy who’s just trying to stick with his values when everything around him was saying the opposite. And he has a son, and the whole thing is like trying to protect that kid.”
A Three-Decade Passion: Moura’s Band
Beyond the silver screen, Moura unveils a significant, lesser-known passion: music. He revealed he has been a dedicated member of a band for an impressive 34 years, a journey that began when he and his bandmates were just 15 years old. The group, named “Sua Mãe” (which translates to “your mother”), creates a blend of influences. They fuse 1980s and 1990s British rock—citing bands like The Cure, The Smiths, and New Order—with traditional Brazilian sounds. Moura emphasizes their unique mix, which incorporates synth-heavy elements and popular Brazilian styles reminiscent of Roberto Carlos. He defends the sincerity of such heartfelt music, even when critics might dismiss it as “bad.” “We mixed that with super popular Brazilian music,” he noted. “Because it’s music that comes from the heart of the artist.”
Impromptu Samba Session Takes Center Stage
Moura’s vibrant enthusiasm for Brazilian culture truly took off when the conversation shifted to his beloved genre, samba. Expressing his deep love for dancing, he spontaneously invited his host to join him for an impromptu samba session. The lively, upbeat performance that followed perfectly showcased Moura’s energetic moves and infectious, uninhibited joy. His dance partner humorously conceded, “I’m not gonna look as sexy as that,” as the studio filled with cheers and laughter. The unexpected dance provides a delightful glimpse into the spirited culture that defines the actor.