Dear Academy Members,

We, the undersigned, wish to express our profound admiration for Fernanda Torres's exceptional performance in "I'm Still Here," directed by Walter Salles. We believe her portrayal of Eunice Paiva is deserving of the Best Actress award at the upcoming Academy Awards.

About the Film:

"I'm Still Here" tells the compelling true story of Eunice Paiva, a mother of five who, during Brazil's military dictatorship, faces the disappearance of her husband, Rubens Paiva. The film delves into universal themes of loss, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.

Highlights of Fernanda Torres's Performance:

Critical Acclaim: Fernanda's performance has been lauded internationally. Jessica Kiang of Variety praised the film's emotional depth, stating, "Classical in form but radical in empathy... these characters are so vivid that we don't want to leave them either." David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the poignant connection between Fernanda Torres and her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, noting, "What makes the connection even more poignant is that she appears as the elderly, infirm version of the protagonist," and recognized "I'm Still Here" as "a gripping, profoundly touching film with a deep well of pathos. It's one of Salles' best." 

Awards and Recognition: She made history as the first Brazilian to win the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama for this role.

Cultural Impact: Her portrayal not only sheds light on a significant chapter in Brazilian history but also underscores universal human rights issues, making it a landmark in contemporary cinema.

Historical Significance and Familial Legacy:

This film holds profound personal and historical significance, as Fernanda Torres shares the screen with her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, who portrays the elderly Eunice Paiva. Montenegro previously made history in 1999 as the first Brazilian actress nominated for an Academy Award for her role in "Central Station." Their collaboration in "I'm Still Here" symbolizes a generational bridge, honoring the resilience of Brazilian women and the enduring fight for justice. 

Recent Honors:

On February 9, 2025, Fernanda Torres was honored with the Virtuoso Award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, further acknowledging her outstanding contribution to cinema.

Our Request:

We understand the challenges in selecting winners among many outstanding performances. However, Fernanda Torres's role in "I'm Still Here" transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, offering a profoundly moving and relevant cinematic experience.

We respectfully urge the Academy to consider awarding Fernanda Torres the Best Actress Oscar, recognizing her exceptional contribution to global cinema.

Sincerely,