At a night full of anticipation and excitement, the Oscar ceremony saw a deeply moving and historic moment when the award for Best International Feature Film was announced. The winner was “I’m Still Here”, a powerful cinematic testament to resilience and resistance, marking a significant milestone for Brazilian cinema. This marked Brazil’s first Oscar win in this category after five nominations, a moment that not only celebrated the country’s rich cinematic tradition but also honored a story of courage and perseverance.

The moment the name of the film was called, the audience erupted in applause, recognizing the triumph of a film that had struck a chord globally. The director, visibly emotional, took the stage to accept the award. In a heartfelt speech, they began by dedicating the Oscar to Brazilian cinema, an industry that has long been a beacon of innovation and artistry, even in the face of immense challenges. They expressed the immense honor of receiving such recognition among such a distinguished group of filmmakers, acknowledging the significance of being part of a global conversation about cinema that transcends borders.

What made the moment even more poignant was the director’s dedication of the award to a woman who had endured great suffering under an authoritarian regime. The film’s narrative was inspired by the real-life experiences of El Piva, a woman who, after experiencing a devastating loss during the regime, chose not to bow to fear or repression. Instead, she stood firm, embodying the spirit of resistance. Her courage became a symbol of hope, and the director’s tribute to her highlighted the profound themes of the film, one that was not just a tale of loss, but one of reclaiming power and dignity in the face of tyranny.

The director’s words carried weight as they spoke of the women who helped bring El Piva’s story to life on screen. Two actresses, Fernanda Torres and Fernanda Montenegro, were singled out for their extraordinary performances. These two women, whose portrayals of El Piva captured the essence of her struggle and resilience, were credited with bringing a powerful depth to the narrative. The director emphasized how their performances were pivotal to the success of the film, making them integral to the story’s emotional depth and authenticity.

As the applause rang through the auditorium, the director took a moment to express their immense gratitude to those who had supported the film, especially to Tom Bernard and Michael, whom they described as the “absolute best” collaborators. Their heartfelt thanks underscored the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where the combined effort of many passionate individuals creates a film that resonates on such a grand scale. It was clear from the speech that the director viewed this award not as an individual achievement but as a collective triumph, one that involved the efforts of the entire team, from the actors to the crew to the visionary producers who believed in the project from the beginning.

The film “I’m Still Here” is much more than a simple recounting of historical events; it is a deeply emotional and personal story that reflects the strength of the human spirit in the face of oppression. It explores themes of resistance, resilience, and the power of memory. The film does not shy away from the brutal realities of living under a dictatorship but offers a hopeful perspective, demonstrating how the courage of individuals can make a difference even in the darkest of times. Through El Piva’s journey, the film conveys an inspiring message that even when it seems that everything is lost, there is always room for hope, defiance, and ultimately, liberation.

The Oscar win was not just a recognition of the film’s artistic merit, but a testament to the power of storytelling as a tool for social change. In a world where authoritarian regimes still threaten the lives of many, the film’s message resonates powerfully, reminding audiences of the importance of speaking out against injustice and standing up for what is right, no matter the cost. The director’s speech encapsulated this, emphasizing how cinema has the ability to reflect and challenge the realities of society, serving as a mirror for our times and a guide for future generations.

In closing, as the director stood on the stage, holding the Oscar with gratitude and humility, it was evident that this moment was about more than just an individual or even a film. It was a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit, the unyielding power of art to inspire change, and the enduring legacy of those who dare to resist in the face of oppression. The night will be remembered as one where a film from Brazil stood proudly among the best in the world, a film that celebrated courage, resistance, and the enduring fight for justice.

The Oscar win for “I’m Still Here” serves as a powerful reminder that while the struggle for freedom and equality continues, the voices of those who resist will not be silenced. Through the medium of film, we are able to witness these stories and carry them forward, ensuring that the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice will never be forgotten. This victory is not just for Brazil but for all who fight for a better, more just world.