Fernanda Torres Wins Golden Globe for Best Actress in Drama for I’m Still Here

Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres earned the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for her role in Walter Salles' I’m Still Here. The film, which explores life under Brazil's military dictatorship, faced stiff competition in a category that included Nicole Kidman (Lee), Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door), and Pamela Anderson (The Last Showgirl).

In her acceptance speech, Torres dedicated the award to her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, a legendary figure in Brazilian cinema. “This is proof that art can endure through life,” said Torres. Montenegro, nominated for an Oscar in 1999 for Salles' Central Station, also appears in I’m Still Here as an older version of Torres' character.

Directed by Walter Salles, I’m Still Here marks his first dramatic feature in over a decade. The film follows Eunice, portrayed by Torres, a mother of five living under Brazil’s 1964 military dictatorship. Eunice’s idyllic family life unravels after her husband, Reubens—a former politician—disappears under mysterious circumstances. Torres' nuanced performance captures the character’s silent grief and resilience as she struggles to protect her family.

The film debuted at the Venice Film Festival, where it was praised for its emotional depth and historical relevance. Deadline called Torres’ performance “a masterclass in subtlety,” predicting further recognition during awards season.

In her speech, Torres reflected on the film’s contemporary relevance. “I’m Still Here echoes the awful things happening in the world today and shows us how to survive in times of fear,” she said.

I’m Still Here was also nominated for Best Non-English Language Film at the Golden Globes and has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature at the Oscars.

Produced by Sony Pictures Classics, the film continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, shedding light on the personal costs of political oppression.