“I’m Still Here” is a powerful political drama that tells the heartbreaking yet inspiring true story of Eunice Paiva (Fernanda Torres), a mother forced to navigate life under Brazil’s brutal military dictatorship after her husband, Rubens Paiva (Selton Mello), is abducted by the government in 1971. Directed by Walter Salles, the film brings to life a dark chapter of Brazilian history through an intimate, personal lens.
At the heart of the movie is a stunning lead performance by Torres. She embodies resilience, courage, and quiet determination as she fights for the truth about her husband’s disappearance, all while raising five children and keeping their lives as normal as possible. The film doesn’t just focus on political oppression, but it highlights the emotional toll of uncertainty, the bureaucratic injustices that denied women basic rights, and the sacrifices made by those who refused to stay silent.
Visually, the film captures the suffocating atmosphere of 1970s Brazil, where paranoia and fear loomed over everyday life. Salles’s direction keeps the tension high, immersing the audience in Eunice’s struggle while also allowing moments of warmth and humanity to shine through. It’s also great to see the film portray strong, independent women, not just through Eunice but also through her daughters, who are growing up questioning the oppressive world around them.
Though not an easy watch, “I’m Still Here” feels like an important film with a story that needs to be told. The power of perseverance in the face of oppression and the unwavering love of a mother fighting for justice are timeless themes that resonate with just about everyone.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 