How the film I’m Still Here forces Brazil to face a dictatorship’s legacy

The Relevance of the Past: How a Film Reflects Brazil’s Ongoing Political Turmoil

The film I’m Still Here has struck a chord in Brazil, resonating deeply with both the past and the present. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of a modern-day coup attempt, the movie serves as a poignant reminder of the country’s complex history and its ongoing struggle with democracy. Just last month, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva marked the second anniversary of a violent riot in Brasília’s Three Powers Plaza, where supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro attempted to spark a military uprising. This event eerie echoes the political upheavals of Brazil’s past, highlighting the lingering tensions between democracy and authoritarianism.

A Nation Divided: The January 8 Riot and Its Aftermath

The riot in Brasília on January 8, 2023, was a stark reminder of Brazil’s political divisions. Thousands of Bolsonaro supporters stormed the Supreme Court, the National Congress, and the presidential palace, perpetrating acts of vandalism and clashing with security forces. The violence was part of a coordinated effort to oust President Lula, who had just begun his third term, and restore Bolsonaro to power. This brazen attack on Brazil’s democratic institutions has left the country reeling, raising questions about the stability of its government and the influence of authoritarian ideologies.

The Legacy of Military Rule: Nostalgia and Impunity

The events of January 8 are not isolated but are deeply rooted in Brazil’s history. Lucas Figueiredo, a journalist and author specializing in the military dictatorship (1964–1985), argues that a lack of awareness about this period has allowed many Brazilians to romanticize it. Figueiredo points out that the military still sees itself as having the right to intervene in politics, a mindset that has persisted into the 21st century. This sense of impunity has been fueled by the fact that no officials were held accountable for their roles in the dictatorship, creating a culture where authoritarian attitudes thrive.

Bolsonaro, a former army captain and vocal admirer of the military regime, has contributed to this nostalgia. During his presidency (2019–2022), he dismantled institutions like the Amnesty Commission and the Special Commission on Political Deaths and Disappearances, which were established to address the human rights abuses of the past. His disdain for accountability was evident when he dismissed the film I’m Still Here as unworthy of his attention. This stance not only reflects his disregard for the past but also undermines efforts to confront the atrocities committed during the dictatorship.

A Shift Toward Accountability: The Charging of Bolsonaro

However, there are signs that this culture of impunity may be shifting. In February, Brazil’s top prosecutor, Paulo Gonet, filed charges against Bolsonaro and 33 others, accusing them of plotting to overthrow the government. If convicted, Bolsonaro could face decades in prison. This move represents a significant step toward holding those in power accountable for their actions, a departure from Brazil’s historical tolerance of authoritarianism. Marcia Carneiro, a history professor at Fluminense Federal University, sees this as a turning point. “There is a new awareness emerging that those who act against the rule of law can be punished,” she said. “This is interesting and new in Brazil.”

The Power of Art: The Film I’m Still Here and Its Appeal

The film I’m Still Here has become a cultural touchstone in this volatile political landscape. While it focuses on the intimate dynamics of a family disrupted by violence, its themes of resilience and the human cost of political turmoil resonate with audiences across Brazil. The film’s emphasis on family and personal suffering has made it accessible to a wide audience, transcending political divides. As Carneiro explained, “Everyone has a family — a mother, a father — and is affected when they see them suffering. Viewers recognize the possibility of something like this happening in their home.” This universal appeal has softened potential right-wing criticism, allowing the film to reach a broader audience.

Conclusion: Bridging the Past and Present

The events of January 8, 2023, and the ongoing legal proceedings against Bolsonaro highlight Brazil’s ongoing struggle with its authoritarian past and its quest for a more just future. The film I’m Still Here serves as a powerful reminder of the human toll of political violence and the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths. As Brazil grapples with these challenges, the nation must continue to build awareness of its history, hold the powerful accountable, and foster a culture of democracy and respect for the rule of law. Only then can it truly move beyond the shadows of its past and build a more inclusive and equitable society.