Brazil (Universal’s Flop Vol. 1 #13)

Set in a retrofutristic dystopian world, low-level bureaucrat named, Sam Lowry has been experiencing recurring dreams of himself as a hero with wings rescuing a blonde woman in danger. When he see the woman in person, he investigates clues of her existence. Sam’s meddling causes him to become a wanted target. The Premise I’m referring to is none other than Terry Gilliam’s “Brazil.”

Released in 1985, (same year Back to the Future came out) Brazil earned praise from critics. However, it was a commercial flop. Overtime, The film garnered a cult following labeling it as one of the best (if not the best) sci-fi films. The Criterion Collection digitally restored Brazil on DVD/Blu-Ray as spine number 51. It’s Christmas Month. Meaning, I’ll post a few holiday themed movies throughout the month. I consider Brazil as a Christmas movie.

Today’s review contains no crucial SPOILERS whatsoever.

Real & Fake Aspects

Real: Johnathan Pryce (Governor Swann from Pirates of the Caribbean) did an excellent job for his performance.

Other Cast Members such as Bob Hoskins, Ian Holm, Michael Palin & Robert De Niro (pre-hate boner Trump) all did a decent job for their respective performances.

Jim Broadbent has a small role as a doctor.

Terry Gilliam did a great job directing. He also co-wrote the script. Terry himself, makes a cameo appearance as a smoker who bumps into Sam.

Michael Kamen (The Dead Zone, Lethal Weapon series, Die Hard) orchestrated the soundtrack.

The film isn’t named after a country, it’s actually named after an instrumental tune, “Aqua real do Brazil.”

The theme song “The Office” is played when a bunch of employees are working. The track was used in movies trailers.

Matchstick Men
Bee Movie
WALL-E

Humor has some funny moments.

Practical Effects were heavily involved creating a retro futuristic atmosphere.

Pacing didn’t feel like a drab at all. My eyes were glued to the screen.

Random Thoughts

I think the Ministry of Information must’ve inspired the Ministry of Defense from “Harry Potter.” Heck, TVA from “Loki” was also influenced by Brazil.
Again, I consider Brazil as a Christmas movie. Don’t believe me? Google it.
I wouldn’t consider Brazil as my number one film of 1985. My personal pick is Akira Kurosawa’s “Ran.” Don’t get me wrong, both films are equally great.

Fun Facts

Terry later directed another Christmas movie, “12 Monkeys.”
River Phoenix, Frank Zappa and Doug Walker/Nostalgia Critic mentioned Brazil as their favorite movie. Too bad the latter lost credibility. I lost my respect to Doug after he called the animated classic “Cinderella” average, thinks “Cinderella III: A Twist in Time” is good and hates “Maleficent,” but likes “Sleeping Beauty.” Just another clueless idiot lacking the ability to comprehend certain movies aren’t great as most people claim. Doug has the I.Q. of a fence post.

Cinematography captures in-depth imagery from the mind of Mr. Gilliam.

Terry mentioned the film’s influenced by George Orwell’s dystopian novel, “1984” and Federico Fellini’s work. Most notably, “8½.”

Sam’s rich mother is addicted to plastic surgery. The film predicted the Kardashians. Terry was ahead of his time.

Primary Themes are Bureaucracy, Surveillance, Technology, Capitalism, Reality, Fantasy, Consumerism & Dreams. For a sci-fi dark comedy, each one’s handled carefully.

Like “Blade Runner,” the Director’s Cut retains the filmmaker’s intended vision without a single trace of studio interference. Here’s what’s included.

Every dream sequence plays a pivotal role within Sam’s journey.
Sardonic vision of dystopia mixed with dark humor.
Sam’s conversation with a guy dressed as Santa Claus regarding a specific individual’s whereabouts.
Sam’s morning scene with Jill. She resembles the exact same woman in Sam’s dreams.
The Ending’s the definitive outcome that’ll make you gasp. I cannot tell you. You’ll have to see for yourself.

If you own a DVD/Blu-Ray copy, Terry provides audio commentary reflecting his behind-the-scenes experience.

Fake: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Terry and his crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.

The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX (Director’s Cut)

Brazil is one of Terry Gilliam’s best films. It’s a unique dystopian sci-fi black comedy film. If you’re looking for something to watch during the holiday season, Brazil’s a must-watch. If you’re a Criterion loyalist, order a copy on Amazon or wait for a huge discount at Barnes and Nobles.