The moments that define these 5 documentaries

The filmmakers behind 'Apocalypse in the Tropics,' 'Folktales,' 'Predators,' 'Seeds' and 'The Tale of Silyan' break down the scenes where everything fell into place

- Story by Steve Dollar

MOVIES CAN BECOME forever memorable through the magic of a singular image, that celebrated "one perfect shot" that illuminates everything before and after it. The Envelope asked directors of five awards-contending documentaries to talk about the shot their film couldn't live without.

1.

'APOCALYPSE IN THE TROPICS'

Director Petra Costa's sequel to "The Edge of Democracy" (a 2020 Oscar nominee) examines the powerful role played by evangelical Christianity in Brazilian politics and the rise of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro.

"I chose the shot of the Statue of Justice, decapitated and upside down," says Costa, describing a scene in front of the Supreme Federal Court in Brasilia after Bolsonaro's supporters sacked the nation's seat of government on Jan. 8, 2023. "[It] symbolizes much of this story on many levels. This film is ultimately using Brazil as a metaphor for the current crises of our democracies worldwide. This picture symbolizes how violent speech is, not just violent speech. It produces violent action, and that was what brought Bolsonaro to power."

2.

'FOLKTALES'

Directors Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady (2007 Academy Award nominees for "Jesus Camp") follow a group of adolescents through a year at a traditional Norwegian folk high school.