Elite Squad: The Enemy Within
Overview
After a bloody invasion of the BOPE in the High-Security Penitentiary Bangu 1 in Rio de Janeiro to control a rebellion of interns, the Lieutenant-Colonel Roberto Nascimento and the second in command Captain André Matias are accused by the Human Right Aids member Diogo Fraga of execution of prisoners. Matias is transferred to the corrupted Military Police and Nascimento is exonerated from the BOPE by the Governor.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
The film builds upon the themes of institutional corruption established in the first 'Elite Squad' movie, delving deeper into the connections between the police, politicians, and paramilitary groups (militias) in Rio de Janeiro. It reflects the real-world issues of unchecked power and the difficulty of achieving meaningful change within a deeply flawed system.
- Wagner Moura's compelling performance as Nascimento showcases the moral compromises and personal toll of fighting corruption.
- The intricate plot reveals the complex web of corruption extending from the police force to political figures, making it a gripping political thriller.
- The film fearlessly tackles the themes of power, corruption, and the unintended consequences of violence, prompting reflection on social issues.
- The realistic action sequences and gritty cinematography contribute to the film's immersive and intense atmosphere.
Fun Facts
- The film became the highest-grossing Brazilian film of all time upon its release, surpassing the original 'Elite Squad'.
- Some of the locations used in the film were real favelas in Rio de Janeiro, adding to the authenticity of the setting.