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Historical documentary

Apocalypse in the Tropics (2025): Cast & Ratings

Apocalypse in the Tropics (2025) movie poster

Apocalypse in the Tropics is a 2025 historical documentary starring Petra Costa, Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. It runs 1 hour 50 minutes. It earned 1 award nomination, including Best Documentary at the BAFTA 2026. Critics gave it 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 82 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.5/10.

IMDb rating
7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes
91%
award nomination
1
Echo Score
85
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Apocalypse in the Tropics (2025) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 50m (110 min)
Genres
Documentary , History
Original language
Brazilian portuguese
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Apocalypse in the Tropics About?

The premise of Apocalypse in the Tropics without spoilers.

Investigating the growing influence of faith leaders in Brazilian politics, Petra Costa examines a nation where democracy and theocracy increasingly blur. The film provides unprecedented access to political figures like Presidents Lula and Bolsonaro, alongside a prominent televangelist who appears to exert considerable influence. Through a blend of past and present events, Costa explores the pivotal role of the evangelical movement in Brazil’s political upheaval and the apocalyptic beliefs that shape its leaders. The documentary reveals a young democracy facing profound uncertainty, offering a poignant reflection on the fragility of democratic institutions.

Apocalypse in the Tropics Themes & Keywords

· 9 tags
  • history documentary
  • politics documentary
  • brazil
  • evangelical
  • politics and religion
  • teocracy
  • religion
  • democracy in danger
  • politics
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Cast & crew

Apocalypse in the Tropics Cast

Petra Costa leads the cast, with Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Also Starring in Apocalypse in the Tropics

· 3 more
Ratings

Apocalypse in the Tropics Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Apocalypse in the Tropics 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 82 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.5/10. Our Echo Score gives it 85/100, strongest in art & craft (90) and weakest in rewatch factor (70).

85 /100

Apocalypse in the Tropics Echo Score Breakdown

Apocalypse in the Tropics distinguishes itself through its assured visual style and thought-provoking thematic depth. The film features poetic visual compositions and fluid editing, from sweeping drone sequences to intimate closeups that underscore the film’s political urgency. The narrative pacing balances dense historical context with a mounting sense of immediacy, fostering engagement without sacrificing coherence. Performative moments are grounded in nuanced portrayals of Brazil’s political figures, enhancing emotional resonance. This documentary offers a compelling blend of aesthetic rigor and substantive storytelling, delivering both intellectual and sensory rewards.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 90

    In terms of visual composition and editorial precision, 'Apocalypse in the Tropics' excels with poetic framing and fluid transitions. The direction employs a measured pace that accentuates both wide aerial perspectives and intimate handheld moments. Production design is understated yet effective, allowing real-world settings to convey political gravity. The editing seamlessly interweaves protest footage and personal reflections, resulting in a coherent aesthetic language that reinforces the film’s contemplative tone.

  • Character & Emotion 75

    When it comes to character depth and emotional resonance, the film provides intimate glimpses of Brazil’s political figures, revealing their motivations and vulnerabilities. Access to candid interviews affords a nuanced perspective, though the documentary’s reflective distance limits deeper emotional connection. The measured tone balances objective analysis with occasional poetic voiceover, sustaining engagement without overt dramatization. The net effect is a thoughtful portrayal that prioritizes insight over immersive character-driven empathy.

  • Story & Flow 85

    In terms of story and flow, the documentary balances dense historical context with a rising sense of urgency, guiding viewers through Brazil’s political upheaval with clear coherence. The pacing steadily builds toward its climactic assault on Brasília, maintaining engagement without sacrificing clarity. Incorporation of both macro-level events and micro-level anecdotes lends originality to the narrative structure. Overall, the narrative flow sustains momentum while providing context for the film’s central thesis.

  • Sensory Experience 90

    When it comes to sensory experience, the film impresses with its harmonious blend of poetic voiceover, ambient sound design, and striking visual compositions. The soundtrack subtly underscores the political drama, complementing field recordings of protests and ceremonies. Cinematography alternates between expansive aerial drone shots and intimate handheld frames, creating a cohesive visual palette. The result is an immersive atmosphere that reinforces the film’s contemplative and urgent tone.

  • Rewatch Factor 70

    In terms of rewatch factor, the documentary’s dense political focus offers deeper insights on subsequent viewings, as layered archival footage and philosophical commentary reveal new nuances. The hypnotic editing and poetic voiceover support reexamination, inviting reflection on evolving themes. However, the deliberate pacing and documentary framework may curb casual repeat viewings. Overall, it appeals most to viewers seeking analytical depth rather than light entertainment.

Awards

Apocalypse in the Tropics Awards & Nominations

Apocalypse in the Tropics earned 1 award nomination, including Best Documentary at the BAFTA 2026.

1 nomination1 ceremony

Videos

Apocalypse in the Tropics Trailers & Videos

3 videos: 1 trailer, 1 teaser and 1 featurette.

Official Trailer [Subtitled]
  • Teaser Apocalypse In The Tropics | Stockholm International Film Festival 2024
  • Featurette Petra Costa on Apocalypse in the Tropics
Details

Apocalypse in the Tropics Also Known As

9 alternative titles, including “Apokalipsa w tropikach” and “열대의 묵시록”.

Also known as
  • Apokalipsa w tropikach
  • 열대의 묵시록
  • 热带启示录
  • Apocalypse sous les tropiques
  • Apocalipsis en los trópicos
  • วันสิ้นโลกในเขตร้อน
  • Apocalisse ai Tropici
  • Apokalypse in den Tropen
  • אפוקליפסה טרופית

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FAQ

Apocalypse in the Tropics FAQ: Cast & Awards

Runtime, release date, cast, ratings, awards, post-credit scenes and language of Apocalypse in the Tropics, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Apocalypse in the Tropics?

Apocalypse in the Tropics runs 1 hour 50 minutes (110 minutes).

When was Apocalypse in the Tropics released?

Apocalypse in the Tropics was released on July 11, 2025.

Who is in the cast of Apocalypse in the Tropics?

Apocalypse in the Tropics stars Petra Costa, Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, among 7 credited actors.

How is Apocalypse in the Tropics rated?

Apocalypse in the Tropics has 7.5/10 on IMDb, 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 82 on Metacritic and 73% on TMDB.

Was Apocalypse in the Tropics nominated for any awards?

Apocalypse in the Tropics received 1 nomination across 1 ceremony.

Does Apocalypse in the Tropics have a post-credit scene?

No. Apocalypse in the Tropics has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Apocalypse in the Tropics in?

The original language of Apocalypse in the Tropics is Brazilian portuguese.

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