Brazilian filmmakers warn of far-right threat

In an open letter published in Variety on October 10, prominent Brazilian filmmakers and industry figures have raised concerns about the second round of the Brazilian presidential election, scheduled for October 25. They highlight fears about the rise of the far right and its potential impact on the audiovisual sector and democratic institutions.

Letter calls for international attention

The letter urges the international community to maintain "sustained attention" on the election, emphasizing the threat posed by far-right candidate Flávio Bolsonaro. He is the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently serving a 27-year prison sentence for attempted coup.

Notable signatories include industry leaders

Among those signing the letter are Kleber Mendonca Filho, director of The Secret Agent, and Wagner Moura, the film’s lead actor. Other signatories include producer Rodrigo Teixeira of I'm Still Here, director Karim Aïnouz, and actress Alice Braga of City of God.

Concerns over funding cuts and policy rollbacks

The signatories note that outgoing president Lula’s cultural policies have helped elevate Brazilian cinema internationally. In contrast, Flávio Bolsonaro plans to cut subsidies to the sector, continuing the approach of his father, Jair Bolsonaro, who slashed funding for the National Film Agency and the Fund for the Audiovisual Sector by nearly 43 percent in 2020.

Call to defend democracy and freedom of expression

The letter stresses that "Protecting freedom of expression and ensuring the sustainability of the Brazilian audiovisual industry are inseparable from the defense of democracy." It urges the international press to cover the election thoroughly, the global film community to raise awareness, and institutions to investigate claims independently.