Wagner Moura, known for his role as Pablo Escobar in Narcos, is now starring in the movie Civil War where he plays a hardened war correspondent addicted to the battlefield. In an interview for Playbook Deep Dive, Moura shared his thoughts on the film and its relevance in today’s world, especially as Washington’s White House Correspondents Association Dinner was underway.
Moura, a former journalist, political activist, writer, and director, discussed his 2019 movie Marighella, which faced censorship in Brazil under then-president Jair Bolsonaro. He emphasized the importance of political films in sparking conversations and bringing about change, highlighting the impact of art on society.
In the wide-ranging conversation, Moura touched upon the parallels between Bolsonaro and Trump, the challenges faced by journalists, and the dehumanizing effects of polarization. Reflecting on his own experiences, Moura emphasized the need to build bridges and listen to different perspectives.
When asked about the power of art compared to journalism in driving change, Moura suggested that art, including political films, plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and sparking meaningful discussions. He shared his personal journey into the world of acting and expressed how art has helped him grow as a person.
Moura’s question for the next guest focused on the concept of truth in today’s polarized world and the importance of facts and journalism in combatting misinformation. As he continues to engage with challenging themes through his work, Moura remains hopeful that art and storytelling can make a positive impact on society.
This article captures Moura’s insights and reflections on his career, the power of art in politics, and the role of truth in shaping our understanding of the world.
Vocabulary List:
- Correspondent (noun): A person who writes letters or emails to someone on a regular basis.
- Censorship (noun): The act of censoring or restricting material deemed objectionable.
- Polarization (noun): The process of causing a group to divide into opposing groups.
- Perspectives (noun): Different ways in which something can be viewed or considered.
- Combatting (verb): Fighting against or trying to eliminate.
- Insights (noun): The capacity to gain an accurate and deep understanding of a person or thing.
