bbc.com
I'm Still Here" Oscar Nominations Reflect Brazil's Political Reckoning
I'm Still Here," a Brazilian film depicting a family's struggle under the military dictatorship, earned three Oscar nominations (Best Picture, Best Actress, Best International Film), highlighting its artistic merit and resonance amid Brazil's ongoing political tensions. The film's success is notable for a non-comedy in Brazil, exceeding \$25 million globally, including over \$3 million in the US.
- How does the film's commercial success in Brazil reflect broader social and political attitudes within the country?
- The film's resonance stems from its intimate portrayal of the dictatorship's impact on a family, coupled with Brazil's current political climate marked by divisions and a recent history of authoritarian tendencies. The film's box-office success, unusually high for a non-comedy in Brazil, reflects a national desire to confront its past and prevent similar events. Fernanda Torres's performance and the film's realistic depiction of 1970s Brazil also contribute significantly to its popularity.
- What is the significance of "I'm Still Here's" three Oscar nominations, considering the film's subject matter and the political context in Brazil?
- I'm Still Here," a Brazilian film about a family torn apart by the military dictatorship, received three Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, sparking national celebrations and prompting President Lula da Silva's public support. The film's success is noteworthy, given its focus on a sensitive political topic and its box office success, exceeding \$25 million globally. The amended death certificate of the protagonist's husband, falsely declared missing, now correctly attributes his death to the state, highlighting the film's impact beyond entertainment.
- What are the long-term implications of "I'm Still Here's" success for addressing political trauma and authoritarian tendencies in Brazil and globally?
- I'm Still Here's" success signifies a growing global concern over rising authoritarianism. The film's ability to resonate internationally suggests a shared desire to confront and learn from past political traumas. The film's financial success challenges the notion that serious, politically charged cinema cannot be commercially viable, creating a template for future films exploring similar themes.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the film's success as a significant cultural event in Brazil, highlighting its political relevance in the context of the country's recent history. This framing is largely positive, emphasizing the film's artistic merits and emotional power. While this is understandable given the focus of the piece, it may unintentionally downplay potential criticisms of the film or alternative interpretations of its impact.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive. However, terms like "dark horse" and "upset" when discussing the Oscars suggest a degree of excitement and anticipation that might slightly skew the objectivity. While these terms are common in entertainment journalism, more neutral phrasing could be considered.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the film's success and critical acclaim, and the political context of its creation in Brazil. However, it could benefit from including perspectives from critics who may have differing opinions on the film's artistic merit or political message. Additionally, while the article mentions the film's global box office success, more detailed information on its reception in countries outside of Brazil and the US could enrich the analysis.
Sustainable Development Goals
The film depicts the struggle of a family under Brazil's military dictatorship, highlighting the importance of justice, accountability, and the fight against human rights abuses. The amended death certificate acknowledges state responsibility for the forced disappearance, symbolizing progress towards justice. The film's success and public resonance demonstrate a societal desire to confront the past and prevent similar abuses in the future. The film also acts as a powerful reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of protecting human rights.