5 reasons to watch the movie I’m Still Here

Inspired by Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s book, the film is a powerful testimony to Brazilian memory

“I’m Still Here”, a film directed by Walter Salles, combines excellent technical aspects with a deeply moving narrative. Released in November 2024, the film grossed R$8.6 million at the box office in its first week of screening, attracting more than 358 thousand viewers, according to ComScore. Critically acclaimed at international festivals, the work also stood out for having won the award for best screenplay at the Venice Film Festival.

In addition to its technical impact, the production touches the audience by telling the true story of Eunice Paiva and her family, who had to face the devastating consequences of the military dictatorship in Brazil. Featuring memorable performances from Fernanda Torres, Selton Mello and Fernanda Montenegro, the film viscerally connects the viewer to the fight for memory and justice. See below 5 reasons to watch “I’m Still Here”!

1. Historical relevance and political impact

“I’m Still Here” addresses one of the darkest periods in Brazilian history – the military dictatorship – from the intimate point of view of an ordinary family. The disappearance of Rubens Paiva is not only a personal tragedy, but also a symbol of repression politics of an era. The film stands out for not falling into the pamphlet. It presents the facts sensitively and, based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s book, reminds us that democracy is preferable to any authoritarian regime.

2. Scenarios that recreate Rio de Janeiro in the 70s

The artistic direction reconstructs down to the smallest details the daily life of a Rionese family of the time. The Paiva house reflects the typical comfort of the middle class, while small elements – such as furniture vintagevinyl records and vintage lamps: they transport us directly into the decade.

The outdoor scenes explore Rio de Janeiro at its best, alternating the tranquility of the residential neighborhoods with the underlying tension of the historical period. Furthermore, the cinematography uses warm lighting reminiscent of home movies, providing a feeling of closeness to the characters and their experiences.

3. The cast that brings the drama to life perfectly

Fernanda Torres plays Eunice Paiva viscerally. Her deep gaze and her charged silences convey the strength of a woman who faces absence and repression without bending. The actress studied documents and family accounts to understand and bring to life the essence of Eunice.

Selton Mello gives Rubens Paiva a unique humanity, balancing the public persona with the doting father. The performances of the young children’s performers – such as Valentina Herszage and Bárbara Luz – carry with them a vulnerability that echoes the pain of loss.

Fernanda Montenegro, in a brief appearance also as Eunice Paiva, becomes its symbol resilience. Their expressions in the last moments remain in the memory as a silent reminder of the fight for justice.

4. The depth of the screenplay adapted by Artur Lorega and Murilo Hauser

The screenwriters Artur Lorega and Murilo Hauser managed to translate the complex story of a family destroyed by political violence on screen in an honest and impactful way. The screenplay does not simply portray the history of the Paiva family, but places it in a broader context, highlighting the need for collective memory to avoid the mistakes of the past.

One of the screenplay’s greatest qualities is its ability to humanize the characters. Eunice, Rubens, and their children are not idealized; They have strengths and weaknesses, which makes them even closer to the public. This approach avoids simplifications and helps create an authentic emotional connection with viewers.

5. A milestone for Brazilian cinema and an unmissable cultural event

Watching “I’m Still Here” isn’t simply watching a movie; is to participate in a historic moment for Brazilian cinema. With international repercussions at festivals such as Venice and Toronto, the production is already a strong candidate for the 2025 Oscar, nominated in the Best International Film category. He has the chance to put Brazil back on the world map prizesomething that hasn’t happened since the days of “Central do Brasil”.

Furthermore, the work was nominated for the Best Non-English Language Film award at the 2025 Golden Globes. Fernanda Torres, in turn, competes in the Best Drama Actress category in the same award. More than its historical relevance, the film provides emotional impact and collective reflection, making it a type of work that will be remembered and debated for years.

Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.