Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro stirred up controversy during his recent interview with Leo Dias on LeoDiasTV, where he critiqued the political narrative of the Oscar-nominated film Ainda Estou Aqui. With over 5 million viewers, the film, directed by Walter Salles, recounts the harrowing story of the Paiva family during Brazil's military dictatorship, and it has garnered significant public attention.
Answering questions about the film, Bolsonaro claimed, "Filme devia começar comigo" (The movie should start with me), casting doubt on the representation of the events within. He elaborated on this by stating how the lead actress, Fernanda Torres, suggested the film couldn't be made during his presidency, triggering his defense: "A mensagem ali é política. [...] eu não persegui ninguém e não movi nenhum processo contra a cúpula do PT" (The message there is political. [...] I didn't persecute anyone and didn't file any lawsuits against the PT leadership). This remark was part of his attempt to clarify his administration's legacy amid the film's release.
Delving more deeply, Bolsonaro faced serious allegations during the interview. Recently, the Procuradoria-Geral da República (PGR) announced charges against him for involvement in various serious crimes, including leading a criminal organization and attempting to incite the overthrow of Brazil's democracy. Bolsonaro, unfazed, retorted: "Chamar eu, o Ministro da Defesa, General Heleno de orcrim? Pelo amor de Deus!" (To call me and Defense Minister General Heleno criminal organization? For God's sake!), humorously dismissing the severity of the charges.
When pressed on his accusation of inciting violence against democracy, he quipped, "O que eu fiz de violência ao Estado Democrático de Direito? Eu estava nos Estados Unidos" (What violence did I do to democracy? I was in the United States). This defiantly naive approach highlighted his attempt to distance himself from the accusations.
The interview also touched on the potential political aspirations of Brazilian singer Gusttavo Lima, who has been suggested as a possible candidate for future elections. Bolsonaro expressed admiration for Lima, stating, "Oi, BB. Gosto dele" (Hi, BB. I like him), showing his open support for potential allies. He assured viewers, if faced with direct competition from Lima, he would treat him with utmost cordiality, deviantly framing the conversation within the sportsmanlike arena.
Throughout the interview, Bolsonaro appeared relaxed yet assertive, utilizing the humor to shift narratives. When Dias cheekily remarked about the controversial 2022 election, asserting Bolsonaros's loss, he shot back with typical bravado, "É, não tinha, mas perdeu!" (Yes, he didn't, but he lost!), showcasing the continued juxtaposition of political realities and his steadfast refusal to acknowledge defeat.
His comments not only reflect on his perspective concerning the Oscar-nominated film but also served as personal affirmations amid serious legal issues. By downplaying the allegations from the PGR and framing them as exaggerated political attacks, Bolsonaro seeks to navigate his public persona.
At the end of the interview, the former president left viewers contemplating not just the past political climate but also future electoral possibilities where artists like Gusttavo Lima may step forward. By positioning himself against perceived political grievances and asserting his identity, Bolsonaro's dynamic interaction with Leo Dias offered more than just entertainment; it was politically charged rhetoric, aimed at both his supporters and potential critics.
Bolsonaro's appearance exemplifies his refusal to back down from the stark critiques following his administration and the upcoming political landscapes, setting the stage for his continued involvement and influence within Brazil's contentious political arena.