A Brazilian Star Shining at the Oscars

As a Brazilian, I take immense pride in celebrating Fernanda Torres, an actress whose talent knows no borders. Now nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her breathtaking performance in I’m Still Here (2024), this achievement is more than just personal—it’s a milestone for Brazilian cinema. Her nomination is proof that Brazil is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary actors, whose artistry deserves global recognition.

A Legacy of Excellence in Brazilian Acting

Fernanda Torres comes from a family of legends. Her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, is one of the most respected actresses in the history of Brazilian and global cinema. My admiration for Montenegro runs so deep that I often think, Is she in a movie or a series? Then it must be good. I don’t even question it—I just know it will be brilliant.

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Fernanda Torres has built an extraordinary career, bringing authenticity, intensity, and humor to every role she plays. She doesn’t just act—she transforms. There is something so real about her performances that you forget a script exists. She makes you believe in every emotion, every word, and every silence.

A Career Filled with Iconic Roles

Fernanda Torres made her film debut at just 16 years old in Inocência (1983), directed by Walter Lima Jr. Her breakthrough came in 1986 with Eu Sei Que Vou Te Amar, where she won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, an achievement that put her on the map internationally.

Throughout the years, she has starred in remarkable films such as:

• A Marvada Carne (1985)
• Com Licença, Eu Vou à Luta (1986)
• Terra Estrangeira (1996)
• Four Days in September (1997) – A film nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars
• The House of Sand (2005) – A stunning performance alongside her mother, Fernanda Montenegro

Beyond cinema, she also conquered television. One of her most beloved roles was in the hilarious Brazilian sitcom Os Normais (2001–2003). Playing Vani, alongside her incredible co-star Luiz Fernando Guimarães (Rui), she delivered a comedic masterpiece that made an entire generation laugh. She and Guimarães had such natural chemistry that their performances felt effortless, turning the everyday chaos of relationships into pure entertainment.

Later, Fernanda Torres once again proved her comedic brilliance in Tapas & Beijos (2011–2015), another hugely successful sitcom where she starred alongside Andréa Beltrão. This show, centered on the lives of two best friends navigating love, work, and relationships, further solidified her status as one of Brazil’s most versatile actresses. Her comedic timing, charm, and energy made the series an audience favorite, proving that whether in drama or comedy, she is an undeniable force on screen.

A New Milestone: An Oscar Nomination

Now, Fernanda Torres has reached a new career high with her role in I’m Still Here (2024), directed by Walter Salles. Her performance as Eunice Paiva, a woman fighting to survive during Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s, has already earned her a Golden Globe win and now an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

This role is more than just a performance—it is a historical and emotional statement, a reflection of a painful past that still echoes in Brazil today. Her portrayal is hauntingly real, deeply moving, and impossible to forget.

For Brazilians, She Has Already Won

In Brazil, politics and economic struggles are part of daily life, and for many, football and art provide an escape, a reason to celebrate. Fernanda Torres represents that artistic excellence we take pride in.

She has already won in the hearts of every Brazilian who wakes up early and works hard to put food on the table. Her success is our success.

As the Oscars approach, the whole country watches with anticipation, cheering for her not just as an actress but as a symbol of Brazilian talent and resilience. She is proof that Brazil is more than just football—it is also a land of extraordinary artists.

Regardless of the final results, Fernanda Torres is already a champion.