In a remarkable achievement, Brazilian actresses Fernanda Montenegro and her daughter Fernanda Torres have both earned Oscar nominations, joining an elite group of mother-daughter duos in cinematic history. Montenegro, the first Brazilian to receive an acting nomination for her role in the 1998 film Central Station, now shares the spotlight with her daughter, who stars in the critically acclaimed I’m Still Here.
Directed by Walter Salles, I’m Still Here is a poignant generational epic set in 1970s Brazil, during the country’s dictatorship. Torres portrays Eunice Paiva, a mother of five whose life is shattered when her husband is forcibly taken by the regime. The film, also nominated for Best Picture and Best International Feature, follows Eunice’s transformation into a resilient lawyer and activist, with Montenegro briefly appearing as the older version of the character.
Torres, a multi-talented artist, has reinvented herself throughout her career as an actress, writer, and podcaster. Inspired by her parents’ artistic legacy, she pursued acting early on, later branching into writing and screenwriting. Her first novel, Fim (The End), was adapted into a miniseries in 2023, showcasing her versatility and independence as an artist.
Reflecting on her Oscar nomination, Torres describes it as a “fairy tale,” emphasizing the enduring bond between her and her mother. “In Brazil, there’s this sense that my mother and I are a continuation of something—two talents that endure in time,” she says. “It’s pretty magical.”
I’m Still Here resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, drawing parallels between the film’s dystopian setting and today’s political climate. “In a world full of fear, people think it would be good to have a populist leader who simplifies everything,” Torres observes. “The film reminds young people of the realities of living under such a regime.”
The film’s authenticity is a testament to Salles’s meticulous direction and Torres’s immersive performance. Shot chronologically, the production mirrored the emotional journey of its characters, creating a deeply personal and honest portrayal of resilience and family bonds.
Torres credits her mother for teaching her the importance of independence in art. “Choose your own material, chase your own material, and decide what you’re going to do next,” she says. “Do not wait.” This philosophy has guided her career, culminating in her Oscar-nominated role and her continued evolution as an artist.
As I’m Still Here continues to captivate audiences, the story of Eunice Paiva—and the real-life bond between Montenegro and Torres—serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of family and the enduring impact of art.
