The Brazilian film Ainda Estou Aqui made history on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles by winning the Oscar for Best International Film, marking Brazil’s first triumph at the Academy Awards. This landmark victory was achieved against tough competition, including films from Denmark, France, Germany, and Latvia.
Directed by Walter Salles, Ainda Estou Aqui tells the poignant story of Eunice Paiva, portrayed by actress Fernanda Torres, who spent decades seeking answers concerning the disappearance of her husband, Rubens Paiva, during Brazil's military dictatorship. The significance of this story resonates deeply, highlighting the resilience and struggle for justice against oppressive regimes.
During the ceremony, the moment of victory was both emotional and historic. "Obrigado, em primeiro lugar, em nome do cinema brasileiro. É uma honra receber esse prêmio em um grupo tão extraordinário de cineastas," Salles expressed during his acceptance speech, conveying immense pride for Brazilian cinema.
Salles dedicated the award to Eunice Paiva, stating, "Esse prêmio vai para uma mulher que, depois de uma perda tão grande em um regime tão autoritário, decidiu não se dobrar e resistir. O nome dela é Eunice Paiva." His powerful words echoed the sentiment of the night, recognizing not just the victory of the film but the steadfast spirit of those it portrays.
Fernanda Torres, who took on the role of Eunice, celebrated the win and encapsulated the moment on social media by saying, "Ainda Estamos Aqui Comemorando," emphasizing the joy and significance of the occasion.
"Ainda Estou Aqui" was based on the book by Marcelo Rubens Paiva and serves as the first original production from Globoplay. The film vividly captures the harrowing experiences of the Paiva family amid one of Brazil's darkest periods. Alongside Torres, the film features Selton Mello as Rubens and showcases the extraordinary performances of its cast.
Throughout its run, the film was well-received and garnered nominations not only for Best International Film but also for Best Picture and Best Actress for Torres, showcasing its acclaim across multiple categories. Although it competed against significant films like Emilia Pérez, A Semente do Fruto Sagrado, A Garota da Agulha, and Flow, it emerged victorious, refocusing the spotlight on Brazilian storytelling.
The nomination and subsequent win are seen as pivotal moments for Brazilian cinema, echoing the earlier nomination of Salles’ Central do Brasil back in 1999, which was led by the iconic Fernanda Montenegro, who also made a special appearance in the current film. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors.
Walter Salles’ successful direction and ability to adapt rich narratives have positioned him as one of Brazil's most respected filmmakers, and this Oscar win is seen as a remarkable obligation to his remarkable body of work.
The Academy Awards this year featured numerous nominees, but as noted by various media outlets like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter, Ainda Estou Aqui was favored for its compelling storyline and evocative performances.
The film's recognition is not merely about winning but about what it symbolizes: it showcases the strength and vibrancy of Brazilian cinema on the world stage. By highlighting stories of resilience and courage, it invites global audiences to connect with the historical narratives of the country.
With this Oscar win, Brazil has stepped onto the global cinematic stage, bringing with it the stories of those who have struggled against adversity. Directors and producers hope this will inspire more attention and investment in Brazilian films, allowing storytellers to share their narratives without restraint.
So as the celebrations continue, it is evident: Ainda Estou Aqui serves as both tribute and inspiration for the future of Brazilian cinema, honoring courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The 2025 Oscar win is not just for one film; it’s for all who believe in the power of storytelling to resonate beyond borders.