Brazilian cinema has just witnessed the emergence of a poignant narrative with the release of "Ainda Estou Aqui" ("I'm Still Here"), directed by the acclaimed Walter Salles. Starring Fernanda Torres and Selton Mello, this gripping film has not only captured the hearts of local audiences but is also positioning itself for global recognition, including potential Oscar nominations.
The film centers around Eunice Paiva, played by Torres, who embarks on a harrowing quest to find justice for her husband, Rubens Paiva, portrayed by Mello, who was forcibly disappeared by the military regime during Brazil's dictatorship years (1964-1985). The story reflects the true struggles faced by families whose loved ones vanished under oppressive circumstances, blending personal loss with historical significance.
Since its debut to Brazilian audiences, "Ainda Estou Aqui" has made waves, earning over three million viewers by the start of January 2025. This remarkable reception places it among the most successful films within the Brazilian cinema industry, and it now stands at the forefront of conversations concerning the state of democracy and memory, topics more relevant than ever as extreme right-wing sentiments permeate the political atmosphere.
Not only has it gained popularity domestically, but it is also vying for accolades on the international stage. Recent reports indicate it is shortlisted for the Oscars, with nominations set to be revealed on January 17. This marks Salles' return to the cinematic spotlight after over a decade, and anticipation surrounds his work after the successes of "Central Station" and "The Motorcycle Diaries".
Speaking to AFP, Torres emphasized the film's dual messaging: “It’s not only about the past. It’s about the present,” highlighting how the historical events depicted mirror contemporary struggles against authoritarian tendencies. The film successfully intertwines the heaviness of its subject matter with moments of humanity, ensuring it resonates emotionally with audiences.
"Se não vier, a vida continua" (If it happens, life goes on), Salles remarked on the pressures of award nominations, noting the importance of viewership over accolades. This pragmatic acceptance reflects the filmmakers' dedication to their craft and the stories being told. Audience reception has also been warm, with the film currently boasting impressive ratings, including 90% on Rotten Tomatoes.
A core theme running throughout the film is the importance of remembering and learning from history, a sentiment echoed by both Salles and Torres. Salles remarked, “When we started the project, we thought it would be an opportunity to look to the past. But with the rise of the far right, it also serves to understand the present.”
Meanwhile, Torres pointed out the uncomfortable truths presented by the film, stating, “Whoever sees the film thinks, ‘This is wrong, there was no reason to persecute this family.’” Their insights reveal the film’s underlying motivations to provoke thought and discussion on the fragility of democracy.
The narrative wraps around the intimate moments shared by the Paiva family against the backdrop of Rio de Janeiro, capturing both warmth and tragedy. While the specter of violence and loss looms large, moments of resilience and love shine through, making for a balanced representation of the human experience.
Notably, the engagement of esteemed actress Fernanda Montenegro, Torres’ own mother, adds additional depth to the film. Montenegro makes a brief appearance as the elderly Eunice, creating a poignant link between past and present performances.
Expected to be featured prominently during awards season, "Ainda Estou Aqui" also stands as an entry to broader discussions on the role of art and cinema during turbulent political times. The film reinforces the notion of resistance through art, particularly when historical memory is under threat.
The conversations around the film's content, its historical foundations, and present-day relevance are integral as audiences prepare for award nominations. Brow raising and emotional, it invites viewers to reflect on the past and its impact on contemporary society.
With stirring performances and timely themes, "Ainda Estou Aqui" is positioned as not only one of Brazil's greatest cinematic achievements of the year but potentially as a significant contender on the international stage. The anticipation around its accolades, including its place on the Oscar shortlist, adds to the cinematic excitement generated by this fundamental exploration of history and its echoes through time.
Among the films released for viewers this year, “Ainda Estou Aqui” stands as both entertainment and enlightenment, reminding the audience of their cultural heritage and the importance of addressing difficult histories.
Times may change and award nominations gain attention, but the impact of well-crafted stories like this one resonates long after the credits roll. Just as Salles and Torres suggest, regardless of the outcome of Oscar nominations, the narrative continues to hold significant weight.