Brazil's 'I'm Still Here' Wins First Oscar For International Film

Ben Stiller presents the award for best production design during the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

The film 'I'm Still Here' made history for Brazil at the Oscars by winning in the international film category. Directed by Walter Salles, the movie portrays a family's struggle during Brazil's military dictatorship era. The story revolves around Eunice Paiva, played by Fernanda Torres, whose husband, former congressman Rubens Paiva, disappeared during the dictatorship in 1971.

Salles highlighted Eunice's resilience and praised Torres for her portrayal, along with Fernanda Montenegro, who plays the older Eunice in the film. The film's focus on Eunice's strength in the face of loss and injustice resonated with audiences, showcasing a different form of political resistance through endurance.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed pride in Brazil's cinema and artists, emphasizing the significance of the win for the country's democracy. The victory was celebrated at the Sambadrome in Rio de Janeiro during the ongoing Carnival parades, with cheers and congratulations echoing through the crowd.

Eunice Paiva's story of strength and endurance resonates with audiences.

Film directed by Walter Salles portrays family's struggle in Brazil's military dictatorship.

President Lula da Silva praises win for Brazil's democracy.

Celebrations at Rio's Sambadrome during Carnival parades.

'I'm Still Here' is based on the memoir by Marcelo Paiva, Eunice's son, and sheds light on her journey to rebuild her family's life amidst uncertainty. The film's message of embracing life in the face of adversity struck a chord with viewers worldwide, emphasizing the fragility of democracy in today's world.

Eunice's refusal to succumb to the dictatorship's pressure is portrayed as an act of resistance, symbolized by a simple smile in the midst of tragedy. The film's exploration of hope, resilience, and the fight against injustice captivated audiences and critics alike.

'I'm Still Here' stands as a testament to Brazilian storytelling, crafted by acclaimed director Walter Salles and featuring stellar performances by Torres and Montenegro. The win at the Oscars marks a significant milestone for Brazilian cinema and culture, showcasing the power of storytelling to inspire and provoke thought.

Other nominees in the best international film category included entries from Denmark, Germany, Latvia, and France. However, it was 'I'm Still Here' that shone brightly on Hollywood's biggest night, bringing Brazil to the forefront of global cinema recognition.

For more updates and coverage of the Oscars, visit the official Academy Awards hub.