The casting of the political thriller “The Secret Agent,” directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, was a complex process that involved finding a diverse array of faces to embody the film’s characters. Casting director Gabriel Domingues meticulously searched various locations, often in unexpected places, to create an ensemble that reflects the rich tapestry of Brazilian life. The film, set in the 1970s, tells the story of a father on the run, drawing on Mendonça Filho’s personal memories and insights.
Domingues explains that the casting process was not about adhering to a specific image. Instead, it revolved around the ideas of memories that could evolve. “It’s not that he was showing us a picture and saying, ‘They must look like this,’” he noted during an interview at The Times newsroom. “They were ideas of memories that could change.” This approach aligns well with Mendonça Filho’s politically charged narratives, which often feature a rich mix of performers.
Mendonça Filho emphasized that every role in “The Secret Agent” holds significance. “Even the small characters represent ideas about Brazilian life and its contradictions,” he stated. To pay tribute to the large ensemble cast, the film concludes with a montage acknowledging each actor individually, akin to a curtain call in theatre. Producer Emilie Lesclaux, who has collaborated with Domingues on multiple projects, praised his ability to blend experienced actors with fresh talent. “Gabriel tries to find an interesting mix of experienced actors and people that we can discover,” she said.
Domingues’s unique casting method was honed during his earlier collaboration with Mendonça Filho on “Aquarius,” where he learned the importance of seeking less conventional options. He takes pride in the effort of discovering new faces, often in regions lacking a vibrant arts scene. While some roles were envisioned with specific actors in mind—such as lead Wagner Moura, who was approached from the start—others emerged as the screenplay developed. Notable casting choices included Maria Fernanda Cândido, a prominent soap opera star, and the late Udo Kier, who portrayed a German Jewish immigrant.
The casting team faced particular challenges with certain roles. The character of Euclides, a morally ambiguous police chief, required a balance of repulsion and charisma. They ultimately cast Robério Diógenes, whose background in clown theatre provided a unique comedic edge to the character. For the role of Vilmar, an impoverished subcontractor entangled in a murder plot, Domingues sought to embody complexity. The character, inspired by a real-life contract killer, needed to reflect a nuanced moral landscape, which Kaiony Venâncio effectively portrayed.
Additionally, the casting of Tânia Maria brought a delightful surprise to the production. At 79 years old, she first appeared in Mendonça Filho’s previous film “Bacurau” as an extra. “I just could not help thinking of her,” Mendonça Filho shared, explaining that he had pre-ad-libbed many of her lines based on her personality. Having previously worked as an artisan rug maker, Maria expressed her astonishment at entering the acting world. “I never thought about being an actress. I only thought about sewing,” she remarked, noting the unexpected joy this new path has brought her.
Maria’s newfound fame has been evident, as she now enjoys recognition during public outings, often being approached for autographs and photos. “I can’t go out on the street without people stopping me,” she said in Portuguese during a video call. Despite the challenges of memorizing lines, she is enthusiastic about pursuing further acting opportunities. “I don’t want to stop because I’m not old! I’m waiting for more invitations to move forward in acting,” she stated, embodying the spirit of resilience and growth.
While the success of “The Secret Agent” has opened doors for many actors, it presents a dilemma for the filmmakers. Lesclaux expressed concern that as actors gain recognition, their availability for future projects may become limited. “That’s all that we want for the people that we work with, that the film is good for them and their career,” she commented. “But for us, it also makes things more complicated for the next film.”
As “The Secret Agent” continues to garner attention, the collaborative efforts of Domingues, Mendonça Filho, and the cast highlight the importance of bringing diverse stories and perspectives to the forefront of cinema. The film not only serves as a thrilling narrative but also as a testament to the vibrant and multifaceted nature of Brazilian culture.
