Apocalypse in the Tropics (2025) Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Petra Costa’s Apocalypse in the Tropics culminates in a haunting image of the damage wrought by Brazil’s turbulent political and social landscape. The scene with the fallen Lady Justice sculpture and the discarded bust symbolizes the collapse of the rule of law and the erosion of justice in a country caught between religious fanaticism and political corruption. Throughout the film, Costa traces how Brazil’s initial modernist aspirations—represented by the building of Brasília as a symbol of progress and separation from colonial and religious traditions—have gradually given way to a society increasingly influenced by religious nationalism. She argues that the rise of evangelical Christianity, intertwined with far-right politics, has transformed religion into a tool for manipulation, fostering unity among supporters while deepening divides.

The film carefully explores Jair Bolsonaro’s political rise, highlighting how his alliance with televangelists like Silas Malafaia helped him tap into the powerful emotional and spiritual sentiments of many Brazilians. Bolsonaro’s campaign was built on Christian nationalist rhetoric, promising a Brazil “belonging to God,” and capitalizing on the cultural shift toward conservatism. With the support of religious leaders and a wave of evangelical influence, Bolsonaro was able to mobilize a large segment of the population, using religion to justify authoritarian tendencies and violent rhetoric. His victory in 2018, however, was followed by increasingly controversial actions, including his refusal to accept electoral defeat and his subsequent departure to Florida to avoid accountability.