“Behind Closed Doors” examines Brazil’s transition into authoritarianism via the Institutional Act No 5. The documentary contrasts state propaganda depicting unity with recordings from a 1968 cabinet meeting, uncovering the harsh realities of repression. Utilizing visual manipulation, it critiques official narratives yet suffers from stylistic repetitiveness and a lack of connection to contemporary politics, particularly under Jair Bolsonaro’s rule.
The documentary “Behind Closed Doors” highlights Brazil’s descent into authoritarianism through a critical examination of the events surrounding the issuance of Institutional Act No 5 in December 1968. This decree effectively revoked the civil rights of dissenters and ushered in a dark period marked by forced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings. João Pedro Bim utilizes recordings of a classified cabinet meeting alongside propaganda newsreels, unveiling a stark contrast between state narratives and the reality of oppression.
The archival newsreel footage portrays a fabricated image of national unity and success, featuring jubilant soldiers and patriotic citizens. These visuals, when juxtaposed with the chilling statements from the military officials, create a dissonant experience; the charismatic images are rendered unsettling against the backdrop of their oppressive context. The documentary casts doubt on the narrative of prosperity perpetuated by the regime, revealing the grim truth behind the smiles of those depicted.
Bim’s work serves as a detox from the propaganda that historically conditioned public perception. His innovative techniques, such as freeze frames and jump cuts, emphasize the divide between official rhetoric and actual governmental abuses. This manipulation effectively dismantles the facade of collective happiness that the state implores.
However, the stylistic choices, while initially engaging, risk becoming monotonous as the film progresses. The repetitive nature of the pairings between sound and imagery diminishes the impact of the revelations. Furthermore, the parallels between the authoritarian methods of the past and the contemporary tactics of Jair Bolsonaro’s administration suggest the film could have benefitted from a more explicit connection to present-day political dynamics.
In conclusion, “Behind Closed Doors” is a significant exploration of Brazil’s authoritarian history, skillfully presenting the stark contrast between official propaganda and the violent realities of dictatorial rule. While it effectively uses innovative techniques to reveal the truth, the repetitiveness of its presentation and the missed opportunity to connect historical patterns with current political issues may limit its overall impact. The documentary serves as a crucial reminder of the fragility of democracy.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
