Wagner Moura has built a reputation as one of most compelling actors of modern film and on television, giving stunning performances in a variety of genres. He is most well-known for his character in the film Pablo Escobar in Narcos, Moura has been able to continue to delight audiences with his dazzling screen presence and a variety of roles. From gritty crime thrillers like Elite Squad to mind-bending thrillers such as Shining Girls and even the upcoming high-profile films like Dope Thief and Mr. & Mrs. Smith, His filmography is full of must-see films. Here’s an overview of the top seven films that show Wagner Moura at his very finest.
1. Narcos: Mexico (2018-2021)
IMdb Rating: 8.3/10
Wagner Moura may have made his name in the role of Pablo Escobar in Narcos however, the film Narcos: Mexico, he plays a different character, this time in front of the camera! Instead of performing, Moura worked as a director for two episodes during Season 3. His role as Escobar has given him a thorough knowledge of the drug cartel’s world and his direction was extremely intense and packed with suspense.
Narcos Mexico moves the emphasis away from Colombia to Mexico as it explores how the mighty Guadalajara Cartel in the 1980s. The series revolves around Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo (played by Diego Luna), who brings together drug traffickers to create an immense empire. While at the same time, DEA agent Kiki Camarena (Michael Pena) struggles to bring the empire down. The story is told as it exposes the brutality of the drug industry and the deadly power struggles that accompany it.
If you liked Narcos, this spin-off will be equally gripping and maybe even more so! It blends historical detail with thrilling story telling, providing a raw and unfiltered perspective on the Mexican drug war. The characters are multifaceted, the action fast-paced, and the actual incidents make it more thrilling. And the fact that Wagner Moura directed episodes makes it even more memorable for his avid fans!
Narcos Mexico is a massive success and was praised for its captivating narrative, impressive performances as well as a deep look into the real-life cartel historical context. It was well-received by critics because it mixed action and drama while retaining the facts of history. Crime drama fans were captivated by the show. The show was one of Netflix’s top-rated series.
Fun Fact
Wagner Moura had to learn Spanish to play Pablo Escobar in Narcos. However, as director of Narcos: Mexico He was also providing instructions in Spanish! It was a full circle moment.
Where to Watch
Narcos Mexico can be viewed on Netflix. So, make sure you have popcorn on hand and prepare for a wild ride through this world full of cartels!
2. Shining Girls (2022)
IMdb Rating: 7.4/10
Wagner Moura takes on a captivating and empathetic role. Wagner Moura is a compelling and emotional character in Shining Girls, the psychological thriller that will keep viewers in suspense. He is Dan Velazquez, a troubled but determined journalist who is able to solve a shocking mystery. His performance gives the show, making it more thrilling and exciting.
It follows Kirby Mazrachi (played by Elisabeth Moss), who is one of the victims of an attack that was brutal and changed her life in a constant way. Kirby joins forces with Dan Velazquez, a reporter who is struggling with his own history, to investigate the occurrence of similar murders. As they probe deeper, they find out that the culprit could not be bound by the passage of time and this makes the investigation more frightening.
If you are a fan of mind-bending mysteries, Shining Girls is the ideal choice. The show combines criminality, psychological horror and sci-fi, making it an original and thrilling adventure. Wagner Moura’s chemistry with Elisabeth Moss is fantastic, and their performances will keep the viewer hooked. The time-warping storyline keeps every episode interesting!
Shining Girls was highly praised for its captivating narrative and creepy atmosphere. The film’s critics loved how it created tension and dealt with trauma in a different manner. Elisabeth Moss received Ṅspecial praise for her performance. Wagner Moura was also appreciated for his the warmth and depth of his character. Although the show was not popular but it did build an avid fan base that enjoys deep and stimulating thrillers.
Fun Fact
Wagner Moura and Elisabeth Moss became close friends while working in the production. In an interview, Moura declared that Moss had been one of the best actors he’s ever worked with!
Where to Watch
You can stream Shining Girls on Apple TV+–get prepared for a thrilling thriller that keeps you at the edge of your seats!
3. Elite Squad (2007)
IMdb Rating: 8.0/10
Wagner Moura delivers one of his most powerful performances on the film Elite Squad the Brazilian thriller that transports you into the tangled police force within Rio de Janeiro. The actor portrays the role of Captain Roberto Nascimento, a tough and fearless police officer in BOPE (the specially-trained police force). His character is caught between his gruelling job and his desire to go home to be with his family.
In Rio’s favelas, The Elite Squad shows the captain Nascimento and his team in the fight against crime drug dealers, and corruption. With the Pope’s trip to Brazil coming up, police are under pressure to tidy up the streets, which makes Nascimento’s job more difficult. While doing s,o he is looking for a reputable successor to his job so they can be able to step back of the outrage.
If you like action movies that are rich in narratives, Elite Squad is one to watch. The film doesn’t only show officers chasing criminals, but also the moral dilemmas of police officers and the rot inside the police system. Wagner Moura’s performance is captivating, allowing you to feel his character’s anger, stress and rage.
Elite Squad was a huge success in Brazil it made more than 14 million dollars in the theater. The film also received the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival which proved its worldwide impact.
The film has received a lot of praise for its honest and authentic narrative. Many loved its ferocious intensity and emotion but others found its portrayal of violence by police to be controversial. Whatever the case, it provoked large debates and eventually became the most well-known films.
Fact: Wagner Moura trained with real BOPE officers to get ready for his job. He was put through intense physical training, and also learned police tactics in order to make his role as authentic as is possible!
Where to Watch
Elite Squad is available on Prime Video and Apple TV, therefore if you’re looking to experience a thrilling, high-stakes thriller, this one’s ideal for you!
4. Elite Squad 2: The Enemy Within (2010)
IMdb Rating: 9.0/10
Wagner Moura returns as Captain Roberto Nascimento in Elite Squad 2: The Enemy Within, but this time, the fight isn’t just with criminals; it’s also against the system as a whole. In a new rank, Nascimento faces corruption at the heart of the police, which makes his quest for justice riskier.
After incidents from the Elite Squad, Nascimento finds himself employed by the government, directing security forces. Instead of doing anything to improve things it turns out that corruption is more severe at the highest levels. He attempts to bring the system back into order and uncovers the real enemy isn’t the drug lords, but the police, politicians, and powerful leaders running the city. With his former friend, Andre Matias, caught in the middle of a war, Nascimento will have to be more determined than ever before for the right to reveal what’s really happening.
Elite Squad 2 brings everything that was great about the first film and expands it. The action is fast-paced, the stakes are greater, and the plot dives deeper into Brazil’s corruption. Wagner Moura delivers a powerful performance that reveals Nascimento’s struggles in trying to restore a corrupt system. If you are a fan of action films that have a sharp and compelling storyline, this film is one to watch!
The film was the highest-grossing film in Brazil at that time, making more than $63 million at the box office! It also won numerous awards and was highly praised for its dramatic storytelling and action-packed scenes that were thrilling.
Audiences and critics were awestruck by Elite Squad 2 much more than the previous film. Many hailed it as one of the greatest crime dramas ever created, thanks to its real-time political commentary and sharp action. It became a sensation within Brazil and is considered one of the best Wagner Moura performances.
Fun Fact
Wagner Moura originally didn’t want to write a sequel; however, after reading the script after which he changed his mind. He was convinced that the plot was so important not to be told!
Where to Watch
You can catch Elite Squad 2: The Enemy Within on Prime Video and Apple TV. If you enjoyed the first film it will be a complete surprise!
5. Paraiso Tropical (2007)
IMdb Rating: 7.3/10
In the years before Wagner Moura became known for dramatic criminal dramas, he was a star as a character in Paraiso Tropical, the Brazilian television show that is filled with drama, romance, and betrayal. In the show, Moura plays Olavo Novae, an enchanting but ruthless businessman who is willing to do anything to achieve what the character wants. Contrary to the role that he played in Elite Squad, this time around, Moura is the villain, and his performance is fantastic!
The story is set in the stunning capital city of Rio de Janeiro. Paraiso Tropical is a story about Paula, a young woman who is trying to get away from her dark past, and their evil twin, Tais, who will do anything to destroy her life. Olavo is played by Wagner Moura, is a conniving businessman who works with Tais to control an elite hotel empire. Through lies, love, and shocking twists, this telenovela will keep you entertained to the end.
If you are a fan of dramatic stories that surprise you, Paraiso Tropical is an excellent choice. Wagner Moura’s portrayal as Olavo is among the highlights. He makes the villain so intriguing that you’ll want to hate the character! In addition, the mix of romance, mystery and power struggles makes it incredibly engaging.
The show was a big hit throughout Brazil as well as being nominated to numerous International Emmy Awards. Wagner Moura’s performance, in particular, was highly praised, proving that he can perform the roles of villains and heroes easily.
Brazilian viewers enjoyed the show, and Olavo was an iconic and famous villain of the telenovela genre. Reviewers praised the show’s captivating plot and Wagner Moura’s unforgettable performance. Even now, many people continue to talk about the unforgettable character he played!
Fun Fact
Wagner Moura had so much enjoyment in his role as Olavo, the character that once joked during his interview about how villains tend to have much more enjoyment than superheroes!
Where to Watch
Paraiso Tropical is available on GloboPlay in the UK, therefore, if you’re in the need of an action-packed telenovela with outstanding performances, this is worth watching!
6. Dope Thief (2025-)
IMdb Rating: 7.6/10
Wagner Moura takes on a captivating part. Wagner Moura plays a believable rol.e Wagner Moura is a compelling character in Dope Thief the gripping crime-drama series that debuted on March 20, 2025. Moura plays Manny, a low-level hustler of low level from Philadelphia who together with his long-time companion Ray (played by Brian Tyree Henry), is involved in a shady plan through impersonation of DEA agents to steal drugs from dealers. Moura’s performance adds depth and nuances in the portrayal and demonstrates his range as an actor.
Based on the novel of Dennis Tafoya, The story takes place over the course of Manny and Ray when their small-time grift turns into a life-threatening situation. In attempting to disguise themselves as federal agents, they attempt to steal a house that is not situated in the country, they accidentally uncover a huge concealed narcotics route on the Eastern Seaboard. The discovery leads them into the dangerous underground which tests their friendship as well as survival skills.
Dope Thief is a gripping story that mixes intense action and deep character study. The relationship that develops between Moura as well as Henry is captivating and brings authenticity to their depiction of a pair of two friends who are caught in dangerous situations. The show’s authentic tone and captivating plot keeps viewers in the edge of their seats and makes it an outstanding addition to the crime-drama genre.
The show has received overwhelmingly favorable reviews and has an approval rating of 85% of 85% on Rotten Tomatoes. The critics have praised the series’ rapid-paced narrative and the captivating performances of the main actors. The Wrap described it as “extravagant, intense, and heartbreaking,” highlighting the emotional depth of the film and its gripping story.
Where to Watch
Dope Thief is streaming exclusively via Apple TV, and new episodes will be released each week until April 25, 2025.
7. Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2024- )
IMdb Rating: 7.4/10
In the 2024 reboot of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Wagner Moura assumes the role of Ruiz Ruiz, a central character that adds intrigue and depth to the show. Ruiz’s character interacts with the characters, John and Jane Smith, who are played by Donald Glover and Maya Erskine, respectively. Moura’s performance adds a distinct energy to the storyline and enhances the overall story.
This series is a refreshing approach to the iconic 2005 film. John Smith and Jane Smith are two lonely strangers who are enlisted to join an unidentified spy agency. To keep their identities secret, they are required to act as married couples as they navigate high-risk assignments and the complexities of their fake relationship. When they are working together, real feelings start to emerge and blur distinctions between personal and professional lives.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith blends action, comedy, and drama in a seamless way. The relationship between Glover and Erskine is evident and Moura’s character is an additional layer of fascination. The show explores issues of identity, trust, and the complexity of relationships, with a backdrop that is exciting spying. It’s a fresh and relatable version of the spy that will keep viewers interested throughout the entire series.
The show has received a positive reception with a 91 percent satisfaction score on Rotten Tomatoes. The show has been praised by critics for its original approach to the original material and its strong performances by the actors. The show has also earned numerous nominations for awards as well as the 16 Primetime Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe Award nominations and has received acclaim from critics.
Where to Watch
Mr. and Mrs. Smith is available to stream exclusively on Prime Video. The entire eight episodes of the initial season are available to Prime members. It is an enjoyable binge-watching experience for those who are viewers of thrilling dramas.
Conclusion
Wagner Moura has proven time and again that he’s an extremely gifted and versatile actors in the business. From villainous criminals, to sophisticated law enforcement and fascinating villains, he adds an intensity and depth to every part. You can choose between exciting thrillers with action like Elite Squad or dramatic dramas that are gripping like Shining Girls, or exciting new series like Dope Thief and Mr. and Mrs. Smith, there’s something for everyone in his movieography.
Which of these films or shows are your favorites? Do you have a different Wagner Moura performance you love that we haven’t mentioned? Write us in the comments section below. We’d love to get your feedback!
