Released in November 2025, "The Secret Agent" quickly garnered critical praise, culminating in a Best Actor Academy Award nomination for Moura's nuanced performance as Armando Solimões. While the prestigious award ultimately went to Michael B. Jordan for his role in "Sinners," the film's current resurgence on HBO Max highlights its enduring appeal and the power of streaming platforms to introduce quality cinema to new audiences.

Described as a "genre-blending slow-burner," the film was both written and directed by the talented Kleber Mendonça Filho. Its intricate narrative and Moura's captivating lead performance clearly resonated with viewers upon its initial release, and now, a year later, it's proving to be a must-watch for streamers across the globe. Collider notes that "The Secret Agent" is currently the sixth most-watched movie on HBO Max worldwide, a significant achievement for a film that has already completed its awards season run.

Moura's portrayal of Solimões was a highlight of the 2025 awards circuit, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. While Oscar recognition is a peak for many, the sustained popularity of "The Secret Agent" on a major streaming service like HBO Max demonstrates that critical acclaim can translate into long-term audience engagement, far beyond the initial box office or awards buzz.

"The Secret Agent" is sharing the top streaming spots with a diverse range of titles. Ahead of it on HBO Max's global chart are films like Anne Hathaway's "Mother Mary" at number one, followed by the 2026 horror "Evil Dead Burn," the Noughties comedy classic "Superbad," Johnny Depp's 2004 thriller "Secret Window," and the Kit Harington-led horror "The Beast Within." This competitive landscape makes "The Secret Agent's" enduring popularity even more impressive, solidifying its status as a compelling watch that continues to draw viewers in.