Walter Salles’ latest film, I’m Still Here, has captured the attention of festival-goers and critics alike at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), positioning itself as a formidable contender for the International Feature Oscar. Following its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it earned the Best Screenplay award, the film made a significant impact in Toronto, receiving a resounding standing ovation during its screening at the TIFF Lightbox.
Unveiled last week in Venice, I’m Still Here offers a poignant exploration of life under Brazil’s military dictatorship, which reigned from 1964 to 1985. The film, which centers on the Paiva family’s turbulent journey, has been hailed for its emotional depth and historical relevance. The Toronto audience’s reaction, including a rare and enthusiastic minute-long ovation, underscores the film’s powerful resonance and potential impact during awards season.
Adapted from Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 memoir Ainda Estou Aqui, the screenplay by Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega delves into the disappearance of Rubens Paiva, a former Brazilian Labour Party congressman, and the subsequent struggles of his family. The film stars Fernanda Torres as the resilient matriarch, bringing a quiet strength to her role that has been widely praised. Torres’ performance, alongside Selton Mello’s, was highlighted during the Toronto screening, reflecting the film’s strong emotional core.
I’m Still Here continues the tradition of impactful films about state repression, drawing comparisons to Argentina’s acclaimed entries The Official Story (1985) and Argentina, 1985 (2022), which have previously garnered international recognition. This film’s exploration of the “disappeared”—individuals forcibly taken by the state—resonates deeply with its audience, mirroring the historical and emotional weight of its predecessors.
With the backing of U.S. distributor Sony Pictures Classics, I’m Still Here is poised for a strong Oscar campaign. Its potential for an International Feature nomination is bolstered by its enthusiastic reception and its alignment with past successful Brazilian entries like Salles’ Central Station. The 1998 film not only earned Brazil’s last Best International Feature nomination but also saw Fernanda Montenegro receive a Best Actress nod—a precedent that could favor Torres, Montenegro’s daughter, in this year’s awards race. Montenegro, now 94, makes a poignant cameo in I’m Still Here, portraying the older version of Torres’ character.
In addition to its potential for an International Feature nomination, the film’s screenplay by Hauser and Lorega is also a contender for Best Adapted Screenplay. As the film continues to generate buzz, it stands as a strong candidate for both accolades and critical acclaim in the upcoming awards season.
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