Brazilian cinema made history at the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, when the film I'm Still Here, directed by Walter Salles, won the Oscar for Best International Feature. This monumental achievement marks the first time a Brazilian film has received this prestigious award, creating waves of pride and celebration across the nation.
The film triumphed over notable contenders such as Emilia Pérez from France, The Seed of the Sacred Fig from Germany, The Girl with the Needle from Denmark, and Flow from Latvia. I'm Still Here tells the poignant story of Eunice Paiva and her relentless pursuit for the truth about her husband, Rubens Paiva, who disappeared during Brazil’s military dictatorship. This narrative, which draws from the autobiographical book by their son, Marcelo Rubens Paiva, resonates deeply with issues of human rights and justice.
Upon accepting the Oscar, Walter Salles dedicated the victory to Eunice Paiva, acknowledging her unwavering strength and determination to find answers following her husband's mysterious disappearance. He stated, "Today is the day to feel even prouder of being Brazilian: proud of our cinema, our artists and, above all, proud of our democracy. Long live Brazilian cinema, long live I'm Still Here,” said Brazilian President Luiz Lula da Silva on the social media platform, X.
Janja Silva, the First Lady of Brazil, expressed similar sentiments, writing, “Long live Eunice Paiva, this brilliant woman who defended her family and the memory of her husband to the end!” She praised the film for serving as both entertainment and a reminder of the dark history associated with authoritarian regimes.
The celebration surrounding the Oscar win coincided with Brazil's lively Carnival festivities, leading many to liken the atmosphere to the excitement of the World Cup. Across the country, parades and street parties featured creative tributes such as masks of Fernanda Torres, who played Eunice Paiva at various stages of her life, and costumes styled after the iconic Oscar statuette. The joyous revelry showcased the high hopes and resilience of the Brazilian population.
Despite the celebratory mood, the film’s success also coincides with significant political conversations. The case of Rubens Paiva, which the film reflects upon, recently saw new developments as his death certificate was updated to indicate his death was not simply politically vanished, but rather violent and caused by the state. This amendment reignites discussions about accountability and truth within the narrative of Brazil’s history.
Gleisi Hoffmann, the future Minister of Institutional Relations for the Presidency, remarked on the overwhelming pride shared by the nation. “Sorry guys, but it was like a World Cup! And there was a cup! Congratulations Walter Salles!” she said, highlighting the film's impact during such delicate times for Brazilian democracy, which she insists is currently under threat.
Beyond its artistic acclaim, I'm Still Here is recognized as pivotal to Brazilian culture and history. The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released an official statement commending the film’s portrayal of Eunice Paiva as not just a character, but as a prominent activist whose life encapsulates broader struggles for rights, memory, and justice against oppressive regimes.
With this Oscar win, I'm Still Here not only secures its place within cinematic history but also emphasizes the enduring need for storytelling as resistance. The film invites audiences to connect with Brazil's past, fostering dialogue about its present and future.
While the film was also nominated for Best Picture, it lost to Anora, which took home several awards including Best Picture and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. Despite this outcome, Torres' nomination stands historic, echoing the path laid by her renowned mother, Fernanda Montenegro, who was nominated at the Oscars back in 1999.
All things considered, I'm Still Here encapsulates more than just the narrative of one family; it embodies the spirit and resilience of Brazilian cinema and the continuing fight for truth and justice. This moment at the Oscars serves as not only recognition of artistic merit but also reinforces the cultural legacy of Brazil as it grapples with its history and aspirations.