Valentina Herszage took center stage at Casa Clã 2025, an event celebrating Women’s Month, as she shared her experiences surrounding her role in the award-winning film Ainda Estou Aqui. The film, which recently clinched the title of 'Melhor Filme Internacional' at the Oscars, narrates the poignant story of the Paiva family amid Brazil's military dictatorship following the heartbreaking loss of Rubens.
Directed by Walter Salles, Ainda Estou Aqui garnered an impressive 5.7 million viewers since its release, striking a chord with audiences both emotionally and historically. "Pessoas que não iam ao cinema há anos foram tomadas por uma emoção incrível. E essa é uma experiência muito importante," said Herszage, highlighting the film's powerful connection with viewers who were once distant from the cinematic experience.
At Casa Clã 2025, a two-day event held from March 21 to March 22 at the spacious Casarão Higienópolis in São Paulo, the discussions focused on women’s advancements and issues. Herszage reflected on her role as Veroca, the eldest daughter in the film, particularly recalling a memorable scene that involved a vibrant living room dance. "Foram três dias de coreografia porque não é como dançamos hoje. O set estava cheio e foi uma loucura, mas muito legal. A trilha sonora também é muito boa, deu destaques para muitos cantores incríveis," she explained, illustrating the dedication and creativity that went into bringing the film to life.
The emotional depth of Ainda Estou Aqui lies not just in its narrative but in its ability to evoke memories of resilience from a time lesser-known to today’s youth. The reactions from audiences have been significant, illustrating just how vital remembering history is in addressing current societal issues.
Casa Clã 2025 has emerged as an important gathering for women, offering a platform for discussion on various topics such as health, menopause, and career transitions. As a prominent female figure in Brazilian cinema, Herszage’s presence at the event serves to empower and inspire others, particularly with her role in a film that tackles complex themes surrounding familial bonds and national trauma.
The Casarão Higienópolis, an expansive 2,300-square-meter property adjacent to the Pátio Higienópolis shopping center, provided the perfect backdrop for this meaningful event. Participants engaged in dialogues about forging new paths and sustaining momentum for future generations, resonating with the very themes presented in Ainda Estou Aqui.
Herszage’s enthusiasm for the film reflects a broader appreciation for Mexican cinema and its impact on both local and international stages. Meanwhile, the Casa Clã event epitomizes the burgeoning recognition of women's voices in multiple spheres, making it a pivotal moment in March, a month dedicated to celebrating women.
The collaborative nature of events like Casa Clã and visually impactful storytelling in films like Ainda Estou Aqui bridges the history of struggle with the pursuit of future harmony. The celebration of Women's Month not only reinforces the narratives of powerful women in Brazil but also encourages more storytelling that reveals hidden histories through the lens of cinema.
As we look toward future events and films, the emotional vitality present in Herszage’s portrayal and the heartfelt discussions at Casa Clã 2025 serve as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the communal spirit it fosters.
