This article examines the potential impact of the film “I’m Still Here” on Brazilian politics, with a focus on its influence meant to advocate for democratic awareness and justice against authoritarianism. If the film wins an Oscar, experts believe it could catalyze legal actions against former President Jair Bolsonaro and further the conversation surrounding democracy’s fragility in Brazil. Its commercial success reflects a growing public engagement with historical narratives about the dictatorship.
The Oscars have historically influenced societal perspectives on various issues including gay rights, war veterans, and Indigenous representation.
This year’s ceremony could notably spotlight political matters in Brazil, particularly surrounding the film “I’m Still Here,” which addresses the impact of military dictatorship on a woman whose husband was disappeared in 1971. Its Oscar win could invigorate discussions and legal actions against former President Jair Bolsonaro’s far-right movement since its release has already sparked political dialogue in Brazil.
Rafael Ioris, a Latin American expert, posits that the film’s Oscar win could further stimulate the ongoing conversation regarding democracy’s vulnerabilities in Brazil, facilitating judicial responses against Bolsonaro and his military allies.
Fernanda Torres, who portrays the lead character Eunice Paiva, is a favorite for the Best Actress award. The film has achieved commercial success with five million tickets sold, marking it as Brazil’s top domestic film in recent years, reflecting its resonance with audiences both in Brazil and internationally.
Torres’ performance resonates strongly with viewers, particularly younger audiences. The film’s narrative, portraying a mother’s struggle under a repressive regime, has made historical events more tangible and relatable, enhancing public awareness of the country’s dark past.
The political climate in Brazil has been invigorated by the movie, creating a reciprocal relationship between its popularity and the political mood. A significant legal focus is on the trial of Bolsonaro regarding charges stemming from the January 8, 2023 attempted coup and various subversive actions taken by his supporters.
Despite the Supreme Court’s upcoming decisions, many believe Torres’ visibility could shift public sentiment against Bolsonaro, potentially resulting in political accountability and reform.
Beyond the award, many view Torres’ potential win as a catalyst for critical societal awareness regarding Brazil’s democratic struggles and historical injustices. With Bolsonaro barred from immediate candidacy, experts caution about the risks of his supporters regaining influence if legal consequences are not enforced.
As of now, 20 to 30 percent of Brazil’s electorate still supports Bolsonaro, underscoring the necessity for ongoing democratic education, as emphasized by renowned jurist Wálter Fanganiello Maierovitch. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the dictatorship’s impact on Brazilian society and the importance of adhering to democratic values.
The historical context around the film highlights Brazil’s turbulent past under military rule, with countless individuals suffering in silence for their political beliefs. The recent political attempts during Bolsonaro’s presidency echo past events, emphasizing ongoing threats to democracy in Brazil.
The filmmakers of “I’m Still Here” aimed to present a historical narrative but were surprised by its contemporary relevance, indicating a powerful fusion of past issues with present-day political dynamics.
Calls for changes to Brazil’s controversial Amnesty Law are gaining momentum, suggesting a potential shift in accountability for past crimes committed during the dictatorship, intertwined with calls from the current judicial system.
Notably, the film has also facilitated the reopening of specific cases related to victims of the dictatorship, proving that societal engagement can spur legal movements and potentially deliver overdue justice.
Despite having low ticket sales relative to Brazil’s overall population, the influence of “I’m Still Here” may pivot on future portrayals of this era in popular media, such as telenovelas.
Significant changes are already visible, with Brazil’s National Council of Justice asserting the need for accurate historical records regarding dictatorship-era deaths, highlighting the film’s role in promoting accountability and recognition of past atrocities.
In conclusion, “I’m Still Here” possesses the potential to significantly impact the current political landscape in Brazil. With Oscar accolades, the film may encourage judicial scrutiny of past injustices perpetrated by the military dictatorship and stimulate public discourse on the importance of democracy, ultimately driving societal change and fostering a greater understanding of Brazil’s historical struggles against authoritarianism.
Original Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com
