I’M STILL HERE
I’M STILL HERE
Directed by Walter Salles
Picture it: Brazil 1970. Deep in the throes of a fascist military dictatorship, everyday life is colored by it. Complete unchecked power by the fascist government stokes fear in the country with people keeping their head down and trying to live a life. Naturally there will always be resistance, such as real life former congressman Rubens Paiva.
Rubens and his wife Eunice (Fernanda Torres) have a beautiful life together with their 5 kids. All residing in the most gorgeous home on the beach, Eunice leads a rather traditional low-key housewife position. She bakes souffles, plays backgammon, smokes cigarettes and above all else fiercely loves her husband and 5 children. Unbeknownst to the clan, Papa Rubens had been secretly helping other expatriates in direct defiance of the current government.
This is the true story of Rubens' "forced disappearance" and one woman's fierce determination not only for answers but to care for and raise her family in the face of tragedy. While my knowledge of this chapter in Brazilian history is non-existent, the film isn't interested in providing a lesson or treating the audience like dummies. Using enough context clues as well as characters dialogue and actions you're able to piece together what is going on without all the exact details and dates.
I have never seen a performance like the one Fernanda Torres gives in this picture. A juicy meaty role that other actress' might have given in to hysteria, instead of the intense quiet restraint on display at all times. There's no flash or big awards clip package moment here. Just the powerful subtlety of a mother and wife dealing with loss and confusion but keeping it together for the sake of her young family.
Every drag of her cigarette, every distant look off screen, any slight change of her expression tells a story. Impeccable casting as well, the entire family unit feels so genuine there are times when the whole thing feels like a documentary showing real footage. There's also the absolutely gorgeous photography and camera work throughout, from the pristine beaches to the grimy blood splattered floors of a prison interrogation room. Everything feels so real, the good and the bad.
I won't spoil what happens for those of us not in the know of our Brazilian history. There are 2 key time jumps later in the film that simultaneously lose some steam while also providing the biggest emotional punches. Far from a harrowing drama or melodramatic tearjerker, nonetheless the last 20-30 minutes my entire theater was sniffling. I am still in awe of this story and the strength that Eunice Paiva displayed in the face of the absolute monster that is fascism.
Truly inspirational in a time when we need it most. I'M STILL HERE indeed.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Out of 4
