In a landmark moment for Latin American cinema in the United States, Wagner Moura has become the first Latin American actor in the New York Film Critics Circle’s 90-year history to win Best Actor, thanks to his riveting performance in The Secret Agent. His portrayal of a man navigating complex moral and political landscapes has been widely praised for its depth, nuance, and emotional resonance.
The film itself, directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, was also honored, with The Secret Agent taking home Best International Film, marking a major milestone for Brazilian cinema on the global stage. Shot with striking visuals and incisive storytelling, the film has captivated audiences and critics alike, further cementing Mendonça Filho’s reputation as one of Latin America’s most visionary filmmakers.
This is the second time Mendonça Filho’s work has won Best International Film at the NYFCC, after Bacurau, co-directed with Juliano Dornelles, took the honor in 2020. Other past Latin American winners include the Brazilian films City of God by Fernando Meirelles in 2003 and Pixote by Héctor Babenco in 1981, as well as the Mexican film Y Tu Mamá También by Alfonso Cuarón in 2002.
In addition, Puerto Rican actor Benicio del Toro received Best Supporting Actor for his role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another. Del Toro plays Sergio St. Carlos, a thoughtful, steady martial-arts instructor who becomes an unexpected source of support for Leonardo DiCaprio’s character.
As The Secret Agent continues its U.S. theatrical run, these accolades from the New York Film Critics Circle mark a historic moment, celebrating Latin America’s profound and lasting influence on the U.S. film landscape.
