Pulling off a surprise win at the Golden Globes, Fernanda Torres took home Best Actress in a Motion Picture in the Drama category. Specifically, the 59-year-old actress won for her powerful performance in I’m Still Here. Given the stiff competition from A-list nominees, including Pamela Anderson, Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidmad, Tilda Swinton, and Kate Winslet, Torre’s victory was unexpected among film critics and enthusiasts.
Fernanda Torres’ Acceptance Speech
Appearing visibly stunned, Fernanda Torres kept her acceptance speech brief as she accepted her first Golden Globe. Her win marks a career milestone and solidifies her position in this awards’ seasoned race. In I’m Still Here, Torres portrays Eunice Paiva, a mother struggling with the forced disappearance of her husband, a former leftist politician, during Brazil’s military dictatorship.
Torres took the stage at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles and was refreshingly candid about her historic win. Admitting her late arrival to the ceremony, the actress confessed that she hadn’t prepared an acceptance speech. Moreover, she expressed her admission for her fellow nominees, acknowledging the impressive caliber of female performances in 2024.
Motherly Connection to Historic Win
Fernanda Torres’ epic win made history as she became the first Brazillian actress to win the Golden Glove for Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama. Given her family’s connection to the award, Torees’ achievement held special significance. In particular, her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, was a nominee for the same award 25 years ago for her role in Central Station, which earned her an Academy Award nomination too. While Torres is the first Brazilian to win at the Golden Globes, her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, was the first to be nominated.
Furthermore, Montenegro, now 95, was involved in I’m Still Here, playing the older version of Eunice. Specifically, her involvement in the film made Torres’ win even more poignant. Reflecting on the enduring power of art, Torres noted her win transcended time and adversity. While emphasizing the film’s relevance, she highlights its themes of survival in times of hardship. Montenegro was a renowned Brazilian actress who achieved various successes in the world of theater, cinema, and performing arts.
Born on October 16, 1927, the then-named Arlette Pinheiro Esteves Torres is seen as one of the greatest Brazilian actresses. In addition to her exceptional talents and numerous accolades, Montenegro’s historic Academy Award nomination is one of her main accomplishments. The actress became the first Brazilian woman to be nominated for a Golden Globes for her role in Central Station. Additionally, she’s the only actress nominated for her performance in a Portuguese-language film.
Themes of I’m Still Here
Premiering at the Venice Film Festival, I’m Still Here continued to garner acclaim and captured the Best Screenplay award. Building on its momentum, the film was recognized as one of the top five international films by the National Board of Review. Alongside these achievements, it also received a Golden Globes nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Notably, Brazil officially entered it for the Best International Film at the Oscars.
During her acceptance speech, Fernanda Torres didn’t elaborate on what she meant by “tough times.” However, the context of I’m Still Here may provide insight on the the January 6 insurrection in the U.S. and the 2023 riots in Brazil have amplified the film’s themes. The movie’s narrative has acknowledged the light of these events. During the Brazil riots, supporters of former President, Jair Bolsonaro, stormed government buildings after his baseless claims of election fraud. I’m Still Here offers a thought-provoking exploration of resilience in the face of adversity.
While working on the film, Director Walter Salles had a profound realization. At first, the team viewed I’m Still Here as a historical retelling. As production progressed, they understood its story held significant relevance to the present day. With this striking connection, Salles emphasized remembering the past helped people avoid repeating it. Moreover, the filmmakers believed the camera is a powerful tool that could push against forces seeking to erase history, ensuring the country’s future remains informed by its past.
Congratulations, Fernanda Torres!
For Brazilian cinema, Fernanda Torres’ historic Golden Globes win marks a significant milestone. Ultimately, it paves the way for future generations of Brazilian actresses to succeed in the film industry. While breaking down cultural barriers, Torres’ victory showcases the talents of Brazilian artists on a global stage. By recognizing international talent in the film industry, this epic win highlights the importance of diversity and representation.
