Brazil, a nation globally revered for its footballing legacy, has now made its mark in the world of cinema, securing an Oscars win. The country, which is often celebrated for its films at various international festivals, has now earned recognition at the prestigious Academy Awards.
For the first time, Brazil has won the Oscar for Best International Feature Film with the heartfelt drama I Am Still Here. This achievement is being hailed as a significant milestone in Brazilian cinema.
Directed by Walter Salles, I Am Still Here tells the poignant story of a woman named Eunice Paiva. The film follows her relentless pursuit of justice over several decades after her husband’s mysterious disappearance during Brazil’s military dictatorship. The film sheds light on Brazil’s socio-political realities during that tumultuous time.
Following its nomination for Best International Feature Film, the film has received widespread acclaim. The lead actress, Fernanda Torres, was also nominated for Best Actress for her powerful performance.
Upon accepting the award, director Walter Salles dedicated it to the women who inspired the story: “This award is for the woman who, despite facing immense loss under a dictatorship, did not break. She resisted and fought on. I dedicate this to her, and to the two extraordinary women who brought her character to life on screen—Fernanda Torres and Fernanda Montenegro.”
This year’s International Feature category was highly competitive, with several notable films vying for the top honor. Brazil’s I Am Still Here triumphed over other contenders, including France’s Emilia Perez, Germany’s The Seed of the Sacred Fig, Denmark’s The Girl with the Needle, and Latvia’s Flow.
Brazil’s win marks a historic moment for the country’s cinema, further cementing its place on the global stage.