Oscar 2026: Pernambuco film 'The Secret Agent' reveals amateur talents in diverse cast

From security guard to janitor: how 'The Secret Agent' reinvents casting and challenges the power of Hollywood

The Pernambuco film 'The Secret Agent', directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, competes for four statuettes at the 2026 Oscars, including Best Film. The production, set in Recife in 1977, not only recreates an era, but also revolutionizes inclusion in cinema, by integrating amateur actors 'discovered' during filming.

Leonardo Lacca, assistant director and cast preparer, revealed that the film features around 60 speaking actors, mixing veterans like Wagner Moura with newly discovered talents, like Tânia Maria, 79 years old. The novelty arises with the inclusion of a production security guard and the caretaker of the Lacca building, both with no prior experience in acting, who gained prominent roles after tests and rehearsals.

The decision to cast non-actors reflects a growing trend in contemporary cinema, where directors seek authenticity and representation, breaking with traditional Hollywood standards. This approach can be seen as a response to the search for more genuine narratives that are close to reality, challenging the power of the consolidated film industry.

"The guy who introduces the outsiders to the gunman Vilmar (Kaiony Venâncio) was a production security guard... That guy is the janitor of my building", reports Lacca, highlighting the innovative nature of the casting.

The choice of amateur actors, although innovative, also brings challenges. Preparing the cast, according to Lacca, required a coordinated effort to ensure everyone felt safe and comfortable in their roles. Mediation between the cast, direction and production was crucial to the success of the venture.

According to IBGE data, the participation of black actors and other minorities is still low in Brazilian cinema. 'The Secret Agent' initiative to include non-professional actors could open doors to greater diversity and representation in the industry, positively impacting the perception and appreciation of different social groups.

The Oscar nomination boosts the film's visibility and could inspire other productions to adopt similar practices. The expectation is that 'The Secret Agent' will continue to generate debates and discussions about the importance of inclusion and representation in cinema, both in Brazil and abroad.