IMDb 5.9 2009 HD

The Assailant

The Assailant

2009
Action Adventure Drama Fantasy
94 min R Brazil
6.074 / 10
5.9 IMDB

Based on the life of a legendary capoeira fighter from Bahia, "Besouro" spins a fantastic tale of a young Brazilian man of African descent in search of his…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director João Daniel Tikhomiroff / Malu Miranda / Paula Lima / Janaina Ferreira / Daniel Lentini
Starring
Aílton Carmo / Jéssica Barbosa / Ânderson Santos de Jesus / Flávio Rocha / Irandhir Santos / Servílio de Holanda / Leno Sacramento / Nilton Souza Junior

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

captivating mythical powerful unique cultural spirited introspective vibrant legendary grounded fantastical rhythmic

Reviews

I
Isabelle Moreau
May 1, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

'The Assailant' is a film that dances to its own rhythm, celebrating the legend of a capoeira fighter from Bahia. The narrative, focusing on a young man's search for his mission, is brought to life by a compelling…

S
Sebastian Croft
May 1, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

A truly captivating cinematic experience, 'The Assailant' delves into the legendary life of a capoeira fighter with a blend of myth and powerful performance. Aílton Carmo leads a cast that includes Jéssica Barbosa and Ânderson Santos de Jesus,…

P
Penelope Davies
May 1, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

'The Assailant' presents a unique, almost dreamlike, exploration of a legendary capoeira fighter's life. Based in Bahia, the film centres on a young man grappling with his destiny, brought to life by a strong ensemble led by Aílton…

M
Marcus Thorne
May 1, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

This is a film that moves with the grace and power of its central discipline, capoeira. 'The Assailant' isn't just a biopic; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from legend and the life of an extraordinary fighter from Bahia.…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 1, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

The Assailant' offers a visually arresting journey into the heart of Brazilian capoeira, framed by a mythical narrative. While the director remains uncredited, the film pulsates with a unique energy, focusing on a young man's quest for his…

FAQs

'The Assailant' delves into profound themes of identity, destiny, and the search for one's mission. It specifically focuses on a young Afro-Brazilian man's journey to understand his place in the world. Drawing from the legacy of a legendary capoeira fighter, the film uses this cultural art form as a metaphor for self-discovery and the assertion of one's purpose against societal or personal challenges.