Brazilian cinema reached a new milestone in 2025 with I’m Still Here, directed by Walter Salles. The film, which has already received international acclaim, tells the true story of Eunice Paiva, a woman who faced the horrors of the military dictatorship in Brazil and the struggle for the memory of her husband, Rubens Paiva, who disappeared during the regime. With a stellar cast and a powerful narrative, the production has become one of the biggest successes of the year, both in box office and critical reception.
A Leftist Version of the Brazilian Military Regime
Based on the book of the same name by Marcelo Rubens Paiva, Eunice’s son, the film delves into themes such as resistance, love, and resilience while exploring the scars left by the military dictatorship on a family’s life. The work not only moves the audience but also rescues a crucial part of Brazilian history, becoming a reflection of the struggle for justice and memory.
With three nominations at the 2025 Oscars, including Best International Film and Best Actress for Fernanda Torres, I’m Still Here solidified Brazilian cinema’s place on the global stage. In this article, we will explore the plot, the cast, the Oscar nominations, and why this film is a must-see cinematic experience.
I’m Still Here is set during the military dictatorship in Brazil in the early 1970s. The plot follows Eunice Paiva, played by Fernanda Torres, a strong and determined woman whose life is turned upside down after the disappearance of her husband, Rubens Paiva (Selton Mello).
Rubens, a former congressman who was stripped of his position by the regime, is taken by the military for interrogation and never returns, becoming one of the most emblematic cases of enforced disappearance in the country.
The film depicts Eunice’s struggle to rebuild her life and protect her five children while seeking answers about Rubens’s whereabouts. The narrative is divided into three phases: Eunice’s youth, marked by political activism; her maturity, when she graduates in Law and fights for human rights; and her old age, portrayed by Fernanda Montenegro, where Eunice faces Alzheimer’s while trying to preserve the memory of her husband and her own story.
The work also addresses themes such as the violence of the military regime, political persecution, and the fight for justice. The plot is a sensitive and emotional portrayal of a family that resisted adversity, keeping alive the memory of one of the darkest periods in Brazilian history.
A Cast of award-winning actors
The cast of I’m Still Here is one of the film’s highlights, bringing together some of the biggest names in Brazilian cinema. Fernanda Torres plays Eunice Paiva in her youth and adulthood, delivering a powerful and emotional performance that has already garnered acclaim from international critics and an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. Fernanda Montenegro, in turn, brings depth and sensitivity to the character as Eunice in her old age.
Selton Mello plays Rubens Paiva, Eunice’s husband, whose disappearance during the military dictatorship is the central focus of the plot. His performance is striking, portraying the courage and determination of a man who fought for democracy during a period of repression.
The film also features an impressive supporting cast, including Valentina Herszage and Maria Manoella as Vera, Eunice’s eldest daughter, and Marjorie Estiano as Eliana, the daughter who was imprisoned along with her mother.
Other highlights include Humberto Carrão as Félix, the journalist who challenges the dictatorship to reveal the truth about Rubens, and Dan Stulbach as Baby Bocayuva, a family friend who supports Eunice’s struggle. Each character is carefully crafted, contributing to a rich and emotionally impactful narrative.
The 2025 Oscar nominations
I’m Still Here made history by being nominated in three categories at the 2025 Oscars: Best International Film, Best Actress for Fernanda Torres, and Best Picture. This is the first time a Brazilian film has been nominated in the main category of the awards, solidifying the national cinema on the global stage.
Fernanda Torres’s nomination for Best Actress is a well-deserved recognition for her brilliant performance. She managed to capture the complexity of Eunice Paiva, from her strength and determination to her vulnerability and struggle against Alzheimer’s. International critics have highlighted her performance as one of the most remarkable of the year.
Moreover, the nomination for Best International Film puts Brazil in the spotlight alongside productions from countries such as France and Germany. The universal narrative of I’m Still Here, which blends personal drama with a political context, has resonated with audiences and critics, making the film a strong contender for the award.
Why you should watch the film
I’m Still Here is more than just a movie; it is an emotional and historical experience. The powerful narrative, combined with impeccable performances, allows the viewer to immerse themselves in the story of Eunice Paiva and her family. The work is a sensitive portrayal of a dark period in Brazilian history, but it is also a celebration of resilience and love.
Walter Salles’s direction is another highlight. Known for films such as Central Station and The Motorcycle Diaries, Salles manages to transform a personal story into a universal work, with stunning cinematography and an emotional soundtrack. The production also stands out for its attention to historical details, creating an authentic and immersive setting.
Finally, the film is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of memory and justice. At a time when Brazil’s recent history is often questioned, I’m Still Here serves as a powerful reminder of the horrors of the dictatorship and the fight for democracy.
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I’m Still Here is a film that everyone should see. With an emotional narrative, a stellar cast, and impeccable direction, the work has become a milestone in Brazilian cinema and a strong contender for the 2025 Oscars. If you haven’t had the chance to see this amazing film yet, don’t waste any more time!
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