Brazil’s film “I’m Still Here” won the Academy Award for Best International Feature, highlighting a true story of struggle during the military dictatorship. Actress Fernanda Torres earned an Oscar nomination for her role, while director Walter Salles crafted a poignant narrative reflecting on past and present issues in Brazil. The film sparked national conversations about justice and accountability amid ongoing political tensions.
The Academy Award for Best International Feature has been awarded to the Brazilian film “I’m Still Here,” marking a historic achievement for Brazil. The narrative is rooted in the true story of Eunice Paiva, who faced personal tragedy amid Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s, as she fought for justice for her abducted husband, Rubens Paiva, a former congressman.
Actress Fernanda Torres, who portrayed Eunice Paiva, received an Oscar nomination for her compelling performance. In her acceptance speech at the Golden Globe Awards, she remarked, “with so much fear, this is a film that helps us to think how to survive in tough times like these.”
The film is adapted from Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 autobiographical novel “Ainda Estou Aqui” and was developed by director Walter Salles, known for acclaimed works such as “Central Station” and “The Motorcycle Diaries.” Salles emphasized the film’s dual focus on the Paiva family’s history and its broader implications for contemporary Brazil.
“I’m Still Here” has achieved remarkable success at the box office in Brazil, acting as a catalyst for national reflection on the lasting impacts of the military dictatorship that lasted until 1985. The film’s release coincides with political turbulence, including charges against former president Jair Bolsonaro for alleged attempts to undermine democracy.
Protests have also emerged, with activists seeking to demand justice for victims of the military regime. They have called for the accountability of military officers, chanting the film’s title in Portuguese, “Ainda Estou Aqui,” during demonstrations, highlighting the ongoing struggle for truth and reconciliation in Brazil.
In conclusion, “I’m Still Here” not only marks a milestone for Brazilian cinema by winning the Academy Award but also serves as a significant tool for social reflection and dialogue about the past and present struggles faced by the nation. The film’s narrative resonates deeply with contemporary issues of justice and accountability, underscoring the importance of remembering history in the face of ongoing political challenges.
Original Source: www.wwno.org
