'The Secret Agent' nabs Spirit Awards win in boost to Oscars campaign

The annual Film Independent Spirit Awards ceremony only celebrates movies made for less than $30 million. Director Kleber Mendonca Filho hailed the win as one that hopefully "gives more visibility to Brazilian cinema." The film follows a former academic pursued by hitmen amid the political turmoil of Brazil under military rule. It prevailed Sunday over contenders including rave-themed road trip movie "Sirat," which will compete alongside "The Secret Agent" for best international feature film at the Oscars, capping Hollywood's awards season.