Synopsis
Set in 1970s Rio de Janeiro, I’m Still Here follows the Paiva family—led by Eunice (Fernanda Torres) and Rubens (Selton Mello)—as they navigate the creeping terror of Brazil’s military
dictatorship. When Rubens, a former congressman secretly aiding the opposition, is abducted by government agents, Eunice must protect her five children while searching for answers in a
climate of fear and silence. Based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s memoir Ainda Estou Aqui, the film dramatizes a true story of resilience, loss, and quiet defiance.
Context and Craft
Walter Salles (Central Station, The Motorcycle Diaries) returns to narrative filmmaking with a deeply personal lens—he was childhood friends with the Paiva children and a frequent guest in
their home. The film’s rich period detail is enhanced by Adrian Teijido’s warm 35mm cinematography and a soundtrack featuring Brazilian icons like Caetano Veloso and Gal Costa. The result evokes a vibrant family life slowly eclipsed by authoritarian violence.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised I’m Still Here for its emotional depth and restrained storytelling:
- “Fernanda Torres delivers a “masterful” performance as Eunice, earning an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of quiet strength under pressure.” The Independent
- “The film has drawn comparisons to Roma (2018) for its intimate family focus and historical backdrop, though Salles opts for vivid colour and personal memory over monochrome nostalgia.” BFI
- “While some may feel the film’s minimal political exposition is minimal, its choice to center the victims’ experience, makes the trauma feel immediate and human.” DeepFocusReview
- “Carried along by Fernanda Torres’ superb performance, I’m Still Here poignantly explores a nation’s upheaval through one family’s search for answers.” Rotten Tomatoes
Conclusion
A brave film portraying resistance, not through action, but through endurance. Parallels can be drawn between Brazil’s former dictatorship and its contemporary political climate. The film’s
use of Super 8 footage and music shapes our emotional connection to the family and their search for the truth.
Audience Rating: 8.63
Audience Comments:
- Excellent; Beautiful film; Powerful; Well acted; Soundtrack good; Sad; Incredible
- Good and Great choice
- A beautiful film well portrayed by the amazing characters and well acted
- A story to be known by all; Emotional but an incredible film