“I’m Still Here”: A Dark Horse in the Oscar Race

Starring Fernanda Torres and set against the backdrop of Brazil’s military dictatorship, “I’m Still Here” has emerged as a dark horse in the Oscar race. The film is up for nominations in best actress, best international film, and the unexpectedly competitive best picture category. Its unlikely success has brought celebrations, particularly in Brazil.

The Impact of a Powerful Story

Directed by Walter Salles, “I’m Still Here” tells the true story of the Paiva family. In 1971,Rubens Paiva, a former congressman, was abducted by military police and never seen again. His wife, Eunice, became a prominent human rights lawyer, fighting to uncover the truth. The film’s real-life connections gained new relevance when Paiva’s death certificate was revised in January 2025 to reflect that his death was “violent, caused by the Brazilian state.”

Salles’s film balances emotional intensity with a realistic portrayal of life under dictatorship. “I was always drawn to narratives where the characters’ stories entwine with the country’s journey,” Salles explains. This blend makes the film particularly resonant, especially as authoritarianism becomes a global concern.

Celebrity and Critical Acclaim

Sony Pictures Classics

Following its Oscar nominations, the film received widespread acclaim. It became the highest-grossing locally produced film in Brazil since the pandemic, grossing over $25 million worldwide, including significant earnings in the US. Torres’s performance earned her a win at the Golden Globes for best actress in a drama, setting high expectations for her Oscar battle.

Brazil’s Emotional Connection

In Brazil, “I’m Still Here” struck a chord due to its relatability and Torres’s immense popularity. Isabela Boscov, a film critic, notes the unusual success of a non-comedy film achieving such high box office figures. She attributes this to Torres’s influence, the film’s accurate depiction of 1970s Brazil, and the current national mood.

Lais Morais/ Reuters

The film has been a cultural touchstone in Brazil, reflecting the devastating impact of the military regime. Salles’s personal connection to the family—a teenage friendship—enhanced the film’s authenticity and emotional depth, resonating with audiences who seek closure and acknowledgment of past injustices.

The Film’s Journey

The creation of “I’m Still Here” spanned seven years, driven by the need to accurately capture the intricate details of the Paiva family’s life. Inspirational memoirs by Marcelo Paiva, Rubens and Eunice’s son, provided critical insights into the family’s experiences and resilience. Salles aimed to create a film that honoured Eunice’s memory and reflected the broader struggle for truth and justice.

Eunice Paiva’s character is portrayed with profound empathy and respect by Torres. Salles describes her as someone who refused melodrama, maintaining a facade of calm in the face of personal tragedy. This nuanced performance encapsulates the human spirit’s capacity for strength and perseverance in the face of political adversity.

Critical Relevance for Today’s World

While “I’m Still Here” is explicitly about Brazil’s history, its themes of democracy, authoritarianism, and memory have gained global relevance. Salles acknowledges the fragility of democracy in an increasingly interconnected world. “The film became a mirror for audiences, allowing them to see a reflection of themselves and their history,” he says.

The film’s success in Brazil and internationally underscores its universal appeal. By preserving the memory of the Paiva family and the broader injustices of the military regime, “I’m Still Here” bears a powerful message about the importance of remembering the past to shape a better future.

Conclusion

“I’m Still Here” stands as a poignant reminder of the human cost of authoritarian rule and the enduring struggle for justice. Starring Fernanda Torres and directed by Walter Salles, the film has garnered three prestigious Oscar nominations and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. As it screens in the UK and beyond, it invites viewers to confront their own democratic values and the importance of preserving history.

“I’m Still Here” is currently available in US cinemas and will be released in the UK on February 21st. This film not only honours the memory of the Paiva family but also serves as a powerful call to every person to remain vigilant and committed to the principles of democracy.

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