Tatiana Cesso
The Brazilian film “I’m Still Here,” directed by the acclaimed Walter Salles, recently clinched the Best Screenplay award at the Venice Film Festival, a testament to its profound narrative and the country’s turbulent history. “I’m Still Here” navigates the dark corridors of Brazil’s military dictatorship through the eyes of Eunice Paiva (portrayed by Fernanda Torres), a woman whose resilience in the face of despair paints a vivid portrait of a nation’s struggle for democracy and the human spirit’s indomitable pursuit of justice.
Eunice Paiva’s story is not just personal but emblematic of the countless families who suffered under the oppressive regime that ruled Brazil from 1964 to 1985. Her husband, Rubens Paiva (played by Selton Mello), a former congressman, was abducted, tortured, and killed by the military in 1971—a fate met by many who dared to oppose the authoritarian government. The film chronicles Eunice’s relentless quest to find her husband, transforming her grief into a compelling narrative of resistance and hope.
“I’m Still Here” is inspired by the book of the same name written by Marcelo Rubens Paiva, a distinguished Brazilian author and one of the couple’s children. This adaptation brings a deeply personal perspective to the narrative, connecting historical events with the intimate agony and perseverance of the Paiva family. Marcelo’s prestigious standing as a writer in Brazil adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the film, ensuring that the story not only reflects personal loss but also captures the broader socio-political landscape of the era. His unique insight into his family’s struggles during the dictatorship period enables the film to resonate profoundly with audiences, bridging personal pain with national history.
Fernanda Torres delivers a riveting performance as Eunice, channeling the character’s profound pain and undying hope with impeccable nuance. Her portrayal not only captivated the Venice audience but also earned her significant critical acclaim. Renowned publications like “Deadline” and “The Guardian” praised her ability to convey deep emotional truths without surrendering to despair. According to “Deadline,” Torres’s performance is a “celebration of Brazil,” echoing the nation’s enduring spirit amidst adversities.
The screenplay, crafted by the talented duo Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lourega, skillfully intertwines personal loss with national trauma, illustrating how individual stories of grief and perseverance can reflect a country’s broader historical and political struggles. At the award ceremony, the screenwriters dedicated their award to Eunice and the entire Paiva family, acknowledging their significant role in bringing this poignant story to the screen.
Critics from various outlets have expressed their admiration for the film’s handling of such a sensitive topic. “The Guardian” described the film as a “dark, sincere drama” that, despite its imperfections, manages to convey hope and resilience. “The Hollywood Reporter” highlighted the touching intergenerational connection, with Fernanda Montenegro—Torres’s real-life mother and an Oscar nominee for Salles’s “Central Station“—playing an older, ailing Eunice, adding layers of emotional depth and continuity to the portrayal.
“Variety” lauded the film as “deeply poignant” with a “superb” performance by Torres, while “IndieWire” complimented her “spectacular” interpretation of Eunice’s stoicism and strength. Such reviews underscore the film’s capacity to touch hearts and provoke thought about Brazil’s past and the ongoing implications of those turbulent times on its present.
“I’m Still Here” is not just a film but a cultural artifact, marking the first original movie produced by Globoplay that ventures into Brazil’s dark historical chapters. It represents a significant milestone for Brazilian cinema, not only for its artistic achievement but also for its courageous confrontation of a painful past. As noted by Manuel Belmar, Globo’s Director of Digital Products, this film breaks a 43-year hiatus for Brazil at Venice, underscoring its potential to garner more accolades and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Brazilian history and resilience.
As “I’m Still Here” continues its journey across various international festivals, its story resonates with universal themes of loss, resilience, and the quest for truth—themes that transcend borders and time, making Eunice Paiva’s story a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit.
