I’m Still Here has made history as the first-ever Brazilian film nominated for Best Picture at the 2025 Academy Awards.
Directed by Walter Salles, this political biographical drama is based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 memoir, which tells the story of Eunice Paiva, a mother and activist grappling with the forced disappearance of her husband, dissident politician Rubens Paiva, during Brazil’s military dictatorship. The film features standout performances by Fernanda Torres and Fernanda Montenegro, both of whom have received widespread acclaim.
The film premiered in Brazilian theaters on November 7, 2024, and quickly became a box office hit, earning $13.5 million on a production budget of just $1.5 million. Despite a failed boycott attempt by Brazil’s far-right, the film’s success highlights its deep cultural and political impact. I’m Still Here also achieved a significant milestone by becoming the highest-grossing Brazilian film since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The film’s historic Best Picture nomination in 2025 is a testament to its global recognition and the significant cultural contribution it has made to cinema. Along with I’m Still Here, other films like Emilia Pérez and Wicked also earned multiple nominations in major categories, setting the stage for a highly competitive Oscar race.
