In a remarkable achievement for Brazilian cinema, I’m Still Here / Ainda Estou Aqui has crossed a significant milestone, officially becoming the third highest-grossing Brazilian film of all time. Directed by Walter Salles, and the first Brazilian film to win the Oscar for Best International Feature, this historical family drama has made an indelible mark both at the box office and in the cultural landscape, drawing in audiences from Brazil and around the world.
Released in Brazilian theaters on November 7, 2024, I’m Still Here captured the attention of millions, selling nearly three million tickets by mid-December 2024. Its success continued to grow internationally, earning over $36 million worldwide—$20 million from international markets and $6 million from domestic box office sales.
These outstanding numbers have propelled the film to an impressive third-place spot among Brazil's highest-grossing films, following two major sequels: the 2016 comedy My Mom is a Character 2 / Minha Mãe é uma Peça 2 by César Rodrigues and Elite Squad 2: The Enemy Within / Tropa de Elite 2 – O Inimigo Agora é Outro by José Padilha. This accomplishment is particularly significant, as I’m Still Here is the first Brazilian film in over two decades to reach this level of success in the United States, crossing the $4 million mark within 38 days of its release.
Part of the film’s broad appeal lies in its deeply emotional and politically charged narrative. Set against the backdrop of Brazil's military dictatorship era, I’m Still Here tells the heart-wrenching story of Eunice Paiva—played by Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee Fernanda Torres—who fights tirelessly for justice after her husband, Rubens Paiva, was forcibly disappeared in 1971. The film not only captivates with its emotional depth but also shines a light on Brazil’s troubled history, forcing audiences to confront the trauma and lingering wounds of the dictatorship.
Since its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the Award for Best Screenplay, I’m Still Here has been met with critical acclaim. It has been praised for its powerful direction, compelling performances, and its ability to address complex social and political issues. Audiences have also noted the film's sensitivity in tackling difficult topics such as grief, mental health, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world—while offering hope and resolution.
