I’m Still Here (Portuguese: Ainda Estou Aqui) is a 2024 political biographical drama film directed by Walter Salles, based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s memoir. The film stars Fernanda Torres and Fernanda Montenegro as Eunice Paiva, portraying her at different stages of life. Eunice was the wife of Rubens Paiva, a dissident politician who disappeared during Brazil’s military dictatorship.
The film premiered at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2024, where it won the Best Screenplay award. It was released in Brazil on November 7, 2024, and became the country’s highest-grossing post-COVID-19 film, earning $14.1 million on a $1.5 million budget. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for major awards, including Golden Globes and Academy Awards.
The production was led by RT Features and VideoFilmes, with principal photography starting in June 2023 in Rio de Janeiro. Let’s dive into where this incredible movie was brought to life!
I’m Still Here Plot Summary
I’m Still Here tells a powerful story set in the 1970s during Brazil’s military dictatorship. It follows Eunice Paiva, a loving wife and mother, as she faces the heartbreaking disappearance of her husband, Rubens Paiva. Rubens, a former congressman and political activist, is taken away during a raid on their home. The film portrays Eunice’s determined search for answers in a time of political oppression and danger.
It also shows how this tragedy deeply affects Eunice and her family. Her brave fight for justice leads to her own arrest and torture, leaving behind an inspiring legacy of courage and strength. The story spans decades, highlighting Eunice’s resilience as she deals with loss, hope, and the eventual truth about her husband’s fate as Brazil moves toward democracy. The film ends on an emotional note, showing Eunice in her later years, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. It’s a moving tale of love, loss and unwavering determination, emphasizing the power of family and the importance of truth.
Where Was ‘I’m Still Here’ Filmed?
I’m Still Here movie was filmed in both Brazil and England, using famous places that help make the story feel real. Some important filming locations were Urca in Rio de Janeiro, where scenes for Eunice Paiva’s family home were shot, Colégio Sion for the school and church parts, and London, which was used to show Veroca’s time overseas. Let’s check out all locations in detail:
Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The scenes showing Eunice Paiva’s family home were filmed in Urca, a beautiful neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro. Urca is known for its amazing views of Sugarloaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay, which added a calm but emotional feeling to the family’s personal moments. Director Walter Salles said, “The views of Urca really captured the warmth and closeness of Eunice’s family life.”
Colégio Sion, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The scenes set in a school and church were filmed at Colégio Sion, which is on Rua Cosme Velho. This old and important place made the story feel more real and meaningful. The production team said, “It’s a place that feels full of history.”
Batalhão da Guarda Municipal, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Scenes that take place in the police headquarters were filmed at Batalhão da Guarda Municipal. This location was important for showing the scary and tense atmosphere of Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s.
London, England, UK
To show Veroca’s time living abroad, some scenes were filmed in London. The city’s famous landmarks were featured, giving a different feel to the story. Producer Rodrigo Teixeira explained, “Filming in London helped show the difference between Eunice’s struggles in Brazil and Veroca’s life overseas.”
When Was the Filming of ‘I’m Still Here’ Done?
Filming for the movie I’m Still Here began on June 3, 2023. The production took place in Brazil and England. The crew worked hard to create the right settings for the story and to capture the deep emotions of the events.
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Should You Watch ‘I’m Still Here’?
Yes, you should definitely watch it! I’m Still Here is not just a film—it’s an emotional experience. If you enjoy powerful storytelling, great acting, and stories about important moments in history, this movie is for you. The way the film shows Eunice Paiva’s fight for justice will leave you feeling moved and inspired.
I’m Still Here Cast Details
- Fernanda Torres as Eunice Paiva
- Fernanda Montenegro as elderly Eunice Paiva
- Rubens Paiva (portrayed by supporting actor)
- Additional cast includes: Supporting roles for family members and government officials
“I’m Still Here” Behind The Scenes
The production team worked really hard to make sure everything felt real. Director Walter Salles worked closely with the actors to show Eunice Paiva’s emotional journey in the right way. They filmed in real historical places, like Urca and Colégio Sion, which made everything more believable. The director said, “It was tough but also rewarding to recreate the feeling of Brazil in the 1970s.”
“I’m Still Here” Official Trailer
The official trailer shows Eunice Paiva’s emotional and brave journey. You can watch it here:
The places where I’m Still Here was filmed were very important in making the story feel real. From the beautiful Urca neighborhood to the emotional scenes in old places in Rio de Janeiro, every location added something special to the story. If you haven’t seen this amazing film yet, it’s time to put it on your must-watch list!
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