‘I’m Still Here’ makes history as first Brazilian film nominated for Best Picture at 2025 Oscars

'I’m Still Here' has made history as the first Brazilian film ever nominated for Best Picture at the 2025 Academy Awards.

Directed by Walter Salles, the political biographical drama is based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 memoir, which recounts the story of Eunice Paiva, a mother and activist coping with the forced disappearance of her husband, dissident politician Rubens Paiva, during Brazil’s military dictatorship. The film stars Fernanda Torres and Fernanda Montenegro, delivering powerful performances that have been widely praised.

Released in Brazilian theaters on November 7, 2024, the film quickly became a box office success, grossing $13.5 million on a $1.5 million production budget. Its success came despite an unsuccessful boycott attempt by the Brazilian far-right, signaling the film’s broad cultural and political impact. 'I’m Still Here' also marked a major milestone as the highest-grossing Brazilian film since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Its historic nomination for Best Picture in 2025 reflects the global recognition of its significant cultural contribution, showcasing Brazil's rich cinematic storytelling. Alongside 'I’m Still Here,' films like 'Emilia Pérez' and 'Wicked' also earned multiple nominations in major categories, creating a highly competitive Oscar race.