Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer Drops: Netflix Unveils Petra Costa’s Chilling Documentary

The Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer has landed, and it’s sparking intense buzz across the internet. Released by Netflix on June 30, 2025, this gripping preview of Petra Costa’s documentary dives into the rise of evangelical influence in Brazilian politics.

With its provocative visuals and urgent narrative, the trailer promises a deep exploration of democracy’s fragility. Here’s everything you need to know about this must-watch film, from its plot to its premiere date, optimized for Google Snippets and AI Overviews.

What Is the Plot of Apocalypse In The Tropics?

The Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer sets the stage for a decade-long journey through Brazil’s political and spiritual upheaval. Directed by Petra Costa, the documentary investigates how evangelical Christian leaders have gained a powerful grip over Brazilian politics, threatening the nation’s democratic foundations.

The trailer highlights Costa’s access to key figures like President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, former President Jair Bolsonaro, and televangelist Silas Malafaia.

It weaves together past and present, framing Brazil’s story as a global cautionary tale about the dangers of religious nationalism. The film’s logline asks, “When does a democracy end, and a theocracy begin?”—a question that resonates far beyond Brazil.

Who Are the Key Figures Featured in the Trailer?

The Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer showcases an impressive lineup of political and religious figures. Petra Costa, the Oscar-nominated director of The Edge of Democracy, narrates and directs, bringing her personal perspective to the story.

Key figures include:

• Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil’s current president, representing the left-leaning perspective.

• Jair Bolsonaro, the former president whose rise was fueled by evangelical support.

• Silas Malafaia, a charismatic televangelist described as a “puppet master” influencing Bolsonaro’s policies.

The trailer’s intimate footage of these figures, combined with Costa’s poetic storytelling, creates a compelling narrative.

When Will Apocalypse In The Tropics Premiere on Netflix?

Apocalypse In The Tropics is slated for a global Netflix premiere on July 14, 2025, following a limited theatrical release on July 11, 2025, in the U.S., UK, and Brazil. The documentary will stream worldwide, making it accessible to a broad audience eager to explore its themes.

The trailer, released on June 30, 2025, has already garnered attention for its festival run, including premieres at Venice, Telluride, and DOC NYC. Its runtime and episode count are not specified, as it’s a feature-length documentary, but expect a tightly edited, impactful experience.

What Does the Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer Reveal?

The Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer is a masterclass in building anticipation. Clocking in at just over two minutes, it opens with haunting visuals of Brazil’s political landscape, intercut with evangelical rallies and congressional scenes.

Costa’s voiceover questions the erosion of democracy, while clips of Bolsonaro and Malafaia underscore the growing influence of Christian nationalism.

Fans on X have called it “terrifying” and “essential viewing,” with @NextBestPicture praising its “illuminating” perspective. The trailer’s mythic imagery, paired with Costa’s observational filmmaking, hints at a documentary that’s both personal and universal.

How Does Petra Costa Shape the Documentary?

Petra Costa, the visionary behind Apocalypse In The Tropics, brings her signature clarity and poetic style to the project. Following her Oscar-nominated The Edge of Democracy, Costa draws from her experience filming Brazil’s 2016 political crisis, where she witnessed evangelicals blessing Congress during Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment.

Co-written with David Barker, Alessandra Orofino, Nels Bangerter, and Tina Baz, the film is produced by Orofino and Costa, with executive producers like Brad Pitt and Jenny Raskin. Costa’s personal connection to Brazil’s struggles adds depth, making the documentary a powerful reflection on global democratic erosion.

Why Is Apocalypse In The Tropics a Must-Watch?

The Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer positions the documentary as a critical watch for anyone concerned about the intersection of religion and politics. Its relevance extends to the U.S. and beyond, where Christian nationalism is also on the rise.

Critics have lauded its “riveting” and “sobering” approach, with Rotten Tomatoes noting its blend of “epic and intimate” storytelling.

With a festival pedigree and Netflix’s global reach, the film is poised for awards contention, building on Costa’s Oscar-nominated legacy. It’s a clarion call to protect democratic values, wrapped in a visually stunning package.

Highlights of Apocalypse In The Tropics:

• Premiere Date: July 14, 2025, on Netflix; limited theatrical release on July 11, 2025.

• Key Figures: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Jair Bolsonaro, Silas Malafaia.

• Director: Petra Costa, Oscar nominee for The Edge of Democracy.

• Themes: Evangelical influence, Christian nationalism, democratic erosion.

• Festivals: Venice, Telluride, DOC NYC, and more.

• Rating: PG-13 for provocative themes.

• Production: Produced by Alessandra Orofino and Petra Costa, with Brad Pitt as executive producer.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Apocalypse In The Tropics Trailer has set the stage for a documentary that’s as timely as it is thought-provoking. Petra Costa’s fearless exploration of Brazil’s political and spiritual fault lines promises to spark global conversations.

Mark your calendars for July 14, 2025, and dive into this cinematic investigation on Netflix. Join the discussion on X and share your thoughts on this urgent story.