Detailed Summary
The Dystopian World
Set in a dystopian, bureaucratic society, “Brazil” depicts a nightmarish world dominated by mindless bureaucracy, inefficient government systems, and constant surveillance. The film follows Sam Lowry (Jonathan Pryce), a low-level government worker who dreams of a more romantic and adventurous life, free from the oppressive systems around him.
The Typographical Error and the Arrest of Mr. Buttle
The story kicks off when a simple typographical error causes the wrongful arrest of an innocent man, Mr. Buttle, instead of a suspected terrorist, Mr. Tuttle (Robert De Niro). Sam Lowry, who works at the Ministry of Information, gets drawn into this mix-up when he tries to correct the error and subsequently encounters Jill Layton (Kim Greist), a woman who matches the image of the woman from his recurring dreams.
Sam’s Descent into the System
As Sam digs deeper into the bureaucratic chaos to uncover the truth behind the error, he starts encountering a series of surreal and bizarre events. His investigation leads him into a world of red tape, labyrinthine office structures, and rogue air-conditioning repairmen like Harry Tuttle, who is fighting against the system.
The Romance and Rebellion
Sam becomes obsessed with Jill, believing she is the key to his dreams and perhaps a way out of his mundane existence. As he aligns with Jill, he inadvertently rebels against the government. Sam’s attempts to escape with Jill ultimately end in disaster as the government closes in on them.
The Disturbing Reality of the Ending
The film takes a dark turn in its final act. After being captured by the government, Sam is subjected to brutal interrogation. In his mind, he escapes with Jill and finds freedom in a pastoral setting. However, it’s revealed that this happy ending is nothing more than a delusion — Sam is, in reality, lobotomized and left catatonic.
Movie Ending
The ending is bleak and ironic. Sam’s final escape is nothing but a product of his imagination, a retreat into a fantasy world as his mind shatters under the pressure of the dystopian regime. The government “wins” in this world, where freedom is only found in madness.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Brazil” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
“Brazil” is a dark dystopian satire that blends elements of science fiction, black comedy, and absurdism. The film is heavily influenced by Orwellian themes and offers a scathing critique of bureaucratic inefficiency and totalitarianism.
Cast
- Jonathan Pryce as Sam Lowry
- Robert De Niro as Harry Tuttle
- Kim Greist as Jill Layton
- Michael Palin as Jack Lint
- Ian Holm as Mr. Kurtzmann
- Bob Hoskins as Spoor
- Katherine Helmond as Mrs. Ida Lowry
Film Music and Composer
Michael Kamen composed the score, integrating the iconic song “Aquarela do Brasil” by Ary Barroso. The song, which inspired the film’s title, recurs throughout the movie as a motif symbolizing escapism and the tension between dreams and reality.
Filming Locations
- London, England: Various locations in London were used to create the grim, labyrinthine cityscape.
- Dorset, England: Several scenes were shot in the West Country to give a contrast between the industrial city and the pastoral dream sequences.
The industrial and brutalist architecture was critical in creating the film’s dystopian aesthetic, emphasizing the oppressive nature of the government and society.
Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Best Art Direction.
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Special Visual Effects and Best Production Design.
- Los Angeles Film Critics Association: Won Best Picture, Best Director (Terry Gilliam), and Best Screenplay.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Director Terry Gilliam famously battled with the studio to release the film in its original dark form, as the studio wanted a more upbeat ending.
- The production design drew inspiration from Fritz Lang’s Metropolis and Orwell’s 1984.
- Robert De Niro was originally offered a smaller role but asked to take on the character of Harry Tuttle, which led to his scenes being expanded.
Inspirations and References
- 1984 by George Orwell: The dystopian setting and themes are clearly inspired by Orwell’s classic novel.
- Franz Kafka’s Works: The film’s portrayal of the absurdity and cruelty of bureaucracy has strong Kafkaesque undertones.
- Metropolis (1927): The film’s aesthetic draws from the futuristic, yet dehumanizing world presented in Metropolis.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The studio infamously tried to release a version known as the “Love Conquers All” cut, which had a happier ending where Sam and Jill escape. However, Gilliam fought back, and his darker ending became the final version.
Book Adaptations and Differences
Though “Brazil” isn’t directly based on a book, it draws heavily from dystopian literature like Orwell’s “1984” and Kafka’s works. The film’s narrative takes a more surreal and visually eccentric approach than most dystopian novels.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Sam’s Dream Sequences: The surreal dreamscapes where Sam imagines himself as a winged hero rescuing a damsel in distress.
- The Tuttle Encounter: Sam meets Harry Tuttle, the rogue repairman, in an exhilarating scene where they evade the authorities.
- The Final Interrogation: Sam’s chilling and disturbing torture scene leading to his mental breakdown.
Iconic Quotes
- “We’re all in it together, kid.” – Jack Lint
- “Sorry, I’m a bit of a stickler for paperwork.” – Harry Tuttle
- “It’s only a state of mind.” – The tagline, encapsulating the film’s theme of escaping reality.
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Sam’s mother undergoes multiple plastic surgeries, a satirical comment on society’s obsession with youth and appearance.
- The film’s Ministry of Information logo is a visual pun, resembling both a spiked torture device and a cheerful office mascot.
- The title “Brazil” carries irony, as the song “Aquarela do Brasil” contrasts sharply with the dystopian world portrayed in the film.
Trivia
- A trip to Portugal inspired Terry Gilliam to make the film after hearing “Aquarela do Brasil” while surrounded by crumbling buildings.
- The film’s lengthy struggle for release involved a “Director’s Cut” screening that Gilliam arranged against the studio’s wishes.
- The casting team chose Michael Palin, typically known for his genial roles, to play the cheerful yet sinister Jack Lint, intentionally making the character more unsettling.
Why Watch?
“Brazil” is a visually stunning, darkly humorous critique of bureaucracy and authoritarianism. With its inventive design, satirical bite, and unique blend of humor and horror, it remains a thought-provoking and influential film that’s both surreal and eerily relevant today.
Director’s Other Movies
- Time Bandits (1981)
- The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)
- The Fisher King (1991)
- 12 Monkeys (1995)
- The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
