Ideology in Brazilian cinema: A decolonial analysis of the violence discourse in ‘Elite Squad’ and ‘Bacurau’

Abstract

This article examines the ideological discourse of violence in two influential Brazilian films, Elite Squad (2007) and Bacurau (2019), through a decolonial lens. Utilizing Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the study explores how each film portrays violence as a narrative tool to convey broader social and ideological messages. Elite Squad depicts violence as a means to maintain hegemonic forces, while Bacurau presents it as resistance against colonial oppression. The research highlights the film’s divergent representations of power dynamics, racial tensions, and the role of the state, offering insights into the sociopolitical commentary embedded in Brazilian cinema. By analyzing these narratives, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of how films can reflect and shape collective consciousness within a post-colonial context.