'The Secret Agent' nabs Spirit Awards win in boost to Oscars campaign
HOLLYWOOD, United States — "The Secret Agent" notched best international film at the Spirit Awards on Sunday, gathering momentum as Hollywood prepares for the Academy Awards, where it is also up for honors.
The annual Film Independent Spirit Awards ceremony only celebrates movies made for less than $30 million.
Director Kleber Mendonca Filho hailed the win as one that hopefully "gives more visibility to Brazilian cinema."
The film follows a former academic pursued by hitmen amid the political turmoil of Brazil under military rule.
It prevailed Sunday over contenders including rave-themed road trip movie "Sirat," which will compete alongside "The Secret Agent" for best international feature film at the Oscars, capping Hollywood's awards season.
"The Secret Agent" will also be up for best picture, best actor and best casting.
Brazil's "I'm Still Here" won best international feature last year.
Earlier in the day, Mendonca Filho told AFP "it's a very strong year."
"When I look at 'The Secret Agent' next to all the other films, I feel very proud," the 57-year-old filmmaker said.
The Academy Awards will be presented on March 15.
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