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A revolutionary film in Brazilian Cinema.
A revolutionary film in Brazilian Cinema.
Synopsis
Synopsis
I'm Still Here is a Brazilian film about Eunice Paiva, a mother whose life changes when her husband, a politician, is taken by Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s. Left to raise five kids alone, she decides to become a lawyer and fight for justice, as she uncovers painful truths about this dark time, and tries to find solutions on her husband's disappearance.
The Truthful Message
The Truthful Message
This film powerfully challenges the belief that Brazil’s military dictatorship wasn't as bad as some people might wrongly assume. It shows that during this time, freedom of speech and every single type of opinion were silenced, and those who had the courage to stand up were often taken away without anyone knowing what happened to them. The film reveals the painful truth that it took years, sometimes even decades, before families and the public knew what really occurred with their loved ones.
The film also serves as a wake up call, showing how easily rights can be stripped away under authoritarian regimes. It’s a stark reminder that these systems aren't just a part of the past—they still shape the way people fight for justice and truth today.
The Shifts of Worlds
The Shifts of Worlds
Before the Disappearance
Before the Disappearance
In the beginning of the film, everything is full of light and color. The family shares various joyful moments at the beach, with music and encounters with friends. The world feels carefree and vibrant, full of hope and happiness. Everyday is a time of warmth and freedom, showing the simple and different pleasures of life before the reality hits.
After the Disappearance
After the Disappearance
But everything changes when the military dictatorship takes control. The military closes the curtains, shutting out the light and hope that once filled the house. No beaches, no nothing. The film shifts into a darker tone, as the family faces an uncertain and "new" world where fear dominates and justice is far gone. Yet, even in this terrifying new reality, the family continues their search for answers, holding on to the hope of finding a light at the end of the tunnel. As even Eunice goes to law school, in order to learn ways to find her husband.
The Fantastic Technical Aspects of I'm Still Here
The Fantastic Technical Aspects of I'm Still Here
Production Design
Production Design
The film does an excellent job of recreating 1970s Rio de Janeiro, using set design, costumes, and props to transport us all to that time. The contrast between the lively and colorful world before the dictatorship and the darker world afterward is another amazing touch to the film's production design.
Natural Lightning
Natural Lightning
The lightning shifts from bright and sunny in the beginning, symbolizing freedom and joy, to more enclosed and shadowed (literally) scenes as the story moves toward the rise of the dictatorship. This change in lighting mirrors the growing fear and oppression that the family faces.
Soundtrack
Soundtrack
The film uses music that the government initially overlooked, but the lyrics carried different hidden meanings of resistance and oppression. These songs, although seeming innocent on the surface, were powerful tools of protest against the regime and connect the audience to the characters struggle for freedom.
Fernanda Torres' Raw Performance
Fernanda Torres' Raw Performance
Fernanda Torres delivers an incredible and raw performance as Eunice, truly bringing the character to life. We see Eunice’s pain, fear, and determination in such a powerful way that it’s impossible to look away once. Torres perfectly captures the emotional depth of the character, making Eunice’s journey feel both personal and universal. Her portrayal was so remarkable that she became the second Brazilian actress to be nominated for an Academy Award, an incredible highlight in Brazilian cinema.
Walter Salles' Stellar Direction
Walter Salles' Stellar Direction
Walter Salles brings his vision to life with exceptional direction, capturing the heart of the film’s emotional and political struggle. He is specifically known for his powerful storytelling and also Salles’ ability to blend personal drama with political themes is on full display. His careful attention to the atmosphere, pacing, and the raw emotions of the characters/actors makes I'm Still Here an unforgettable movie. Salles’ work continues to solidify him as one of the most talented directors in modern cinema. and the hisotry of Brazilian Cinema.
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