Written by Maria Paula Accosta
I’m Still Here is an emotional rollercoaster that captivates from start to finish, offering a poignant portrait of love, memory, and grief. Following Fernanda Torres' unexpected win for Best Actress at the Golden Globes, the film has earned significant attention throughout awards season, earning not just her first Oscar nomination and an International Feature Film nomination, but also a nomination for Best Picture—a pleasant surprise. Torres became the second Brazilian ever to be nominated for Best Actress, following her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, in 1999.
Based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva's book, I’m Still Here shares a powerful message of resistance through a devastating true story. Set in the 1970s, former congressman Rubens Paiva (Selton Mello) returns to Rio de Janeiro, hoping to lead a peaceful life with his wife Eunice (Fernanda Torres), and their five children. However, the kidnapping of the Swiss ambassador by the Revolutionary Left Movement triggers political instability, and Rubens is unexpectedly arrested and disappears.
Eunice's journey becomes the heart of the film. After struggling to uncover the truth, she is illegally detained for 12 days, which amplifies the trauma and uncertainty she faces. Isolated from her family and with her husband’s fate unclear, Eunice’s strength grows as she faces the terrifying reality of the situation. The thought of her children depending on her for survival propels her forward through the suffocating fear.
Torres' performance is one of the most significant of her career, bringing her talent to an international stage. Through every subtle expression and gesture, even without speaking a word, she pierces the language barrier and makes Eunice’s emotional journey resonate deeply. As Eunice navigates her fear and uncertainty, she evolves into a fierce protector and unwavering advocate for her children, finding strength and resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. Torres infuses the character with such authenticity that her journey becomes all the more compelling—her unwavering love for her family, even in the darkest moments, forms the emotional core of the story.
I’m Still Here is more than just a personal survival story; it’s a tribute to the power of motherly love that defies the very limits of despair. In the first act, the entire cast creates an atmosphere so rich with authenticity that you feel almost like a part of the Paiva family. Torres' portrayal brings this intimate world to life, reminding us of the extraordinary strength of the human spirit when tested by unimaginable circumstances.
This film may be controversial for some, but it is undeniably necessary. Latin America has long struggled with political instability, and this film highlights a dark period of that history. The military regime of the 1970s left thousands of victims, with over 400 deaths and countless disappearances. The crimes committed during this time were never properly addressed or judged, leaving a painful legacy that continues to haunt the region today.
I’m Still Here is tragic and devastating, but also deeply empowering. Eunice's transformation from victim to advocate for other families facing similar fates speaks to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. With her love for her children and dedication to her family, she turns a painful chapter into one of hope. This film leaves much to reflect upon and reminds us of the importance of being informed about the history of other countries.
Photo credits :Adrian Teijido. Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
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