The film 'The Secret Agent' failed to win any Oscars, leading to an immediate uproar from the audience in Recife watching the ceremony at Cinema São Luiz. Their shouts of 'marmelada' - a Portuguese term denoting a fix or scam - reflected their disappointment as they felt the film deserved recognition. The venue, which was decorated in a festive, carnival-like atmosphere with a red carpet and giant puppets, had been a gathering place for fans eager to support the film directed by Pernambuco's Kleber Mendonça Filho.

Audience members expressed their dismay over the results, especially social worker Rosana França from Olinda, who voiced confusion and frustration regarding the decisions made by the Academy. She emphasized the collective feeling among attendees, stating that they had organized to witness the ceremony and supported 'The Secret Agent' as the superior choice for recognition. The reaction from Recife’s audience highlights the strong community pride and emotional investment in the local film industry, leading to a refusal to accept the award outcomes without contest.

Despite the lack of Oscars, some attendees at the Cinema São Luiz chose to celebrate the film and the experience they shared rather than solely focusing on the negative results. The event turned into a moment of cultural solidarity, showcasing the resilience and dedication of the audience to support their local cinematic achievements, viewing the experience as a communal celebration rather than a mere contest.