Petra Costa’s sobering new Netflix documentary, “The Edge of Democracy,” has been making waves since its release. The film, which chronicles the political turmoil in Brazil over the past decade, has shed light on the powerful influence of evangelical Christianity on far-right politics in the country.
Directed by Costa herself, the documentary takes viewers on a journey through Brazil’s recent political history, from the rise of the Workers’ Party to the impeachment of former President Dilma Rousseff and the subsequent election of far-right leader Jair Bolsonaro. But what stands out the most in the film is the role of evangelical Christianity in shaping the country’s political landscape.
Costa, who grew up in a politically active family, was inspired to make the film after witnessing the dramatic changes in her country’s political climate. In an interview with The Guardian, she said, “I wanted to understand how we got to this point, where democracy is in danger and there is so much division and hate in our society.”
Through interviews with politicians, activists, and ordinary citizens, Costa delves into the rise of the evangelical movement in Brazil and its impact on politics. The film highlights how evangelical leaders have used their influence to sway voters and support conservative candidates, including Bolsonaro.
Evangelical Christianity has been on the rise in Brazil for decades, with the number of followers increasing from 6.6% of the population in 1980 to 22.2% in 2010. This growth has been fueled by the promise of prosperity and a conservative moral code, which has resonated with many Brazilians, especially those from marginalized communities.
However, as the documentary shows, the evangelical movement’s involvement in politics goes beyond just promoting their beliefs. They have also been accused of using their influence to push for policies that go against the rights of women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and indigenous communities.
One of the most striking moments in the film is when Costa interviews a pastor who openly admits to using his church’s resources to campaign for Bolsonaro. He justifies this by saying, “We are not just a church, we are a political force.” This statement highlights the dangerous intersection of religion and politics in Brazil, where evangelical leaders have become powerful players in the political arena.
The documentary also sheds light on the role of social media in spreading misinformation and propaganda, which has been used to manipulate voters and fuel the rise of far-right politics. Costa shows how evangelical leaders have used social media to spread their message and mobilize their followers, creating a powerful and influential network.
“The Edge of Democracy” is a wake-up call for Brazilians and the rest of the world to pay attention to the dangerous consequences of the growing influence of evangelical Christianity in politics. It serves as a cautionary tale of how the manipulation of religion and the spread of misinformation can threaten democracy and divide a nation.
The film has received critical acclaim, with many praising Costa’s bold and unflinching approach to tackling such a complex and sensitive subject. It has also sparked important conversations about the role of religion in politics and the need for a more diverse and inclusive political landscape in Brazil.
In an interview with NPR, Costa said, “I hope that the film will spark a conversation about the role of religion in politics and how we can move towards a more inclusive and democratic society.” And it seems like her hopes are being realized, as the film has sparked protests and discussions across Brazil, with many calling for change and a more progressive approach to politics.
“The Edge of Democracy” is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the current political climate in Brazil and the dangerous consequences of the growing influence of evangelical Christianity. It serves as a powerful reminder that democracy is fragile and must be protected from those who seek to use it for their own gain.
In conclusion, Petra Costa’s “The Edge of Democracy” is a thought-provoking and eye-opening documentary that shines a light on the dangerous hold evangelical Christianity has over far-right politics in Brazil. It is a powerful call to action for Brazilians and the rest of the world to pay attention and work towards a more inclusive and democratic society.
