In a remarkable achievement, Brazilian actresses Fernanda Montenegro and her daughter Fernanda Torres have both earned Oscar nominations, solidifying their place in cinematic history. Montenegro, the first Brazilian to receive an acting nomination for her role in the 1998 film Central Station, now shares the spotlight with her daughter, who stars in the critically acclaimed I’m Still Here, directed by Walter Salles.
This mother-daughter duo joins an elite group of Oscar-nominated pairs, including Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli, Diane Ladd and Laura Dern, and Goldie Hawn and Kate Hudson. "It’s like a fairy tale," Torres shared in a recent interview. "In Brazil, my mother and I are seen as a continuation of something enduring—two talents that transcend time."
In I’m Still Here, Torres portrays Eunice Paiva, a mother of five whose life is upended during Brazil’s 1970s dictatorship when her husband is forcibly taken by the regime. The film, based on a true story, follows Eunice’s transformation into a lawyer and activist, navigating grief and resilience. Montenegro makes a brief appearance as the older Eunice, sharing the screen with her daughter in a poignant moment.
Torres, a multifaceted artist, has reinvented herself throughout her career as an actress, writer, and podcaster. Inspired by her parents’ legacy, she pursued acting early on, later branching into writing and script development. "I became an independent artist," she said. "You don’t rely on invitations; you create your own path."
I’m Still Here resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, drawing parallels between the film’s dystopian setting and today’s political climate. "The film has historical importance in Brazil," Torres explained. "It reminds young people of the realities of living under such a regime."
The movie’s authenticity is a testament to Salles’s meticulous direction and the collaborative spirit on set. "Walter shot it simply and precisely," Torres noted. "The realism is rare and powerful."
Torres credits her mother for teaching her the value of independence in art. "Choose your own material and decide what you’re going to do next," she said. One of her mother’s favorite phrases, "It’s glory, and its litany of horrors," even inspired the title of her second book. "It defines this moment in my life," Torres added with a laugh.
Through their Oscar-nominated performances, Montenegro and Torres have not only made history but also highlighted the enduring power of storytelling and the strength of familial bonds.
