Elite Squad: The Enemy Within

Elite Squad: The Enemy Within

Year: 2011

Runtime: 115 min

Language: Portuguese

Director: José Padilha

ActionDramaThrillerCrime

In Rio de Janeiro’s favelas, Captain Nascimento leads an elite police unit battling violent gangs. His aggressive methods achieve results, but a transfer to a government position exposes a disturbing reality. Nascimento discovers that corruption within the police force and among government officials is the root cause of the city’s escalating violence, forcing him to confront a far more dangerous enemy than he initially imagined.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Elite Squad: The Enemy Within (2011)

Trace every key event in Elite Squad: The Enemy Within (2011) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Nascimento's Hospital Crisis

Thirteen years after the previous events, Lieutenant Colonel Nascimento finds himself under fire while exiting a hospital. This moment reflects the chaotic state of affairs in his life and sets the tone for the turmoil that follows.

Present Hospital
2

Riot at Bangu Penitentiary

Four years prior, Nascimento is at Bangu Penitentiary Complex, deployed to control a riot instigated by the notorious gang leader, Beirada. Despite the escalating violence, negotiations begin with Diogo Fraga, who is brought in to negotiate with Beirada.

Four years earlier Bangu Penitentiary Complex
3

Hostage Situation Negotiation

As Nascimento and his team engage with Beirada, Diogo Fraga manages to persuade the gang leader to release the hostages, showcasing his skills as a negotiator. However, the situation takes a deadly turn when Nascimento's protégé, Captain André Matias, defies orders and kills Beirada.

Four years earlier Bangu Penitentiary Complex
4

Consequences of Beirada's Death

Beirada's death triggers a series of repercussions within the police and criminal underworld. The incident escalates the ongoing conflict between BOPE and the various factions in Rio de Janeiro.

After Beirada's death
5

Confrontation with Formoso

As public scrutiny intensifies, Nascimento learns of PMERJ commander Formoso's intentions to displace him. He boldly confronts Formoso at a restaurant, where he receives unexpected support from patrons, reinforcing his resolve in the face of adversity.

In the midst of growing scrutiny Restaurant
6

Matias's Downfall

Following Formoso's move, Nascimento is promoted while Matias is scapegoated and transferred to ordinary police. Matias later confides in journalist Clara Vidal about the rampant governmental corruption, which leads to his eventual imprisonment.

After Nascimento's promotion
7

Fraga's Political Rise

Meanwhile, Diogo Fraga grows closer to Nascimento's ex-wife, Rosane, and manages to secure a position in the Rio State Assembly. His ascent signifies a merging of personal and political interests amidst the escalating conflict.

Contemporary to Matias's downfall Rio State Assembly
8

Corruption and Escalation

With increased resources, Nascimento bolsters BOPE's capabilities, aiming to eradicate police corruption and dismantle drug cartels. However, corrupt officers led by Major Rocha exploit the situation to reinforce their power, creating a militia that threatens public safety.

Following Nascimento's enhancement of BOPE
9

Militia's Ruthless Tactics

As the militia grows stronger, they conduct heists on police stations, crippling law enforcement efforts in drug-trafficking areas. Their actions mask their own corruption while allowing them to establish dominance in the favelas.

Four years after previous events Police Station in Tanque
10

Tragic Ambush and Matias's Death

Reinstated Matias embarks on a mission against dealers but faces a tragic ambush that leads to his demise. Major Rocha coldly executes a captured drug lord, escalating the violence and betrayal within the ranks.

During a police raid
11

Investigative Pursuits

In the aftermath of Matias's death, Nascimento takes control of Fraga's phone records in hopes of exposing militia corruption. He collaborates with journalist Clara Vidal to shed light on the criminal network controlling the city.

After Matias's death
12

Vidal’s Investigation and Threat

Clara Vidal continues her investigation into the favelas and uncovers incriminating evidence against Rocha. However, her work leads to a violent confrontation, as Rocha's henchmen silence her before she can reveal the truth.

During Vidal's investigation Favelas
13

Drive-by Attack

In an attempt to protect Fraga and his family from a looming threat, Nascimento initiates a protective plan that culminates in a drive-by shooting. Rafael, Fraga's son, gets injured in the chaos, further complicating the volatile situation.

After silencing of Vidal Fraga's residence
14

Assembly Investigation Launched

In response to the growing concerns regarding the disappearances of Vidal and her photographer, the Assembly initiates an investigation. Fraga's evidence plays a crucial role in prompting this inquiry into the corruption rampant in Rio.

Following the drive-by attack
15

Nascimento's Final Stand

Summoned to testify, Nascimento reveals a web of corruption involving high-ranking officials, leading to increased tension and violence. His testimony marks a critical contribution to addressing the systemic issues plaguing the police and politics in Brazil.

During the Assembly hearing

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 12:05

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Elite Squad: The Enemy Within

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