Movie fans listen up! The 2025 Oscars just wrapped and while there were plenty of glitzy moments two films really stood out for their raw power and important stories: I'm Still Here and No Other Land. These aren't your typical Hollywood blockbusters. They are films that grab you by the heart and make you think long after the credits roll. Let's unpack why these Oscar winners are absolute must-watches.
'I'm Still Here' Wins Hearts (and an Oscar!) As Best International Feature: A Brazilian Story of Strength
First up let's talk about I'm Still Here . This Brazilian drama snagged the Oscar for Best International Feature and it's a win that's seriously resonating. Why? Because this movie is based on a true story that hits hard and feels super relevant even today.
Set in 1970s Rio de Janeiro Brazil was under a tough military dictatorship. The movie centers around Eunice Paiva played brilliantly by Fernanda Torres who also got an Oscar nod for her role. Eunice's husband Rubens a congressman is taken away by the military and vanishes. Suddenly Eunice is left to raise their five kids and fight for justice in a country turned upside down.
This isn't just some history lesson though. I'm Still Here feels incredibly current. When Fernanda Torres accepted her Golden Globe she said the film "helps us to think how to survive in tough times like these." That line speaks volumes right? It reminds us that even when things are dark and scary human resilience and the fight for what's right still matter.
Directed by Walter Salles known for films like Central Station and The Motorcycle Diaries I'm Still Here isn't just critically acclaimed it was also a box office hit in Brazil breaking records. It's a movie that has sparked real conversation and even activism in Brazil a country still grappling with its past. If you are looking for a film that is both moving and meaningful put I'm Still Here at the top of your list.
'No Other Land' Takes Home Best Documentary: A Palestinian-Israeli Film Delivering a Powerful Message
Now let's switch gears to No Other Land which won Best Documentary Feature. This film is a collaboration between a Palestinian filmmaker Basel Adra and an Israeli co-director Yuval Abraham. That's already pretty interesting right?
No Other Land shines a light on the harsh realities of Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank focusing on the forced displacement of people from their homes. The film follows the lives of Basel and Yuval highlighting the stark differences in their experiences. Yuval as an Israeli has freedom of movement and rights that Basel as a Palestinian simply does not.
What's truly remarkable is the directors' Oscar acceptance speech . It wasn't just your typical thank you speech. Basel Adra talked about his hopes for his daughter’s future a future free from violence and displacement. Yuval Abraham pointed out the inequality he and Basel face despite being like brothers. He directly criticized US foreign policy saying it's "helping to block the path" to peace. Powerful stuff.
Despite winning awards No Other Land actually struggled to find distribution in the US initially which the directors believe is for political reasons. But demand was so high they self-distributed it and theaters have been selling out. This is a film that’s sparking dialogue challenging perspectives and making waves. If you want a documentary that is urgent eye-opening and deeply human No Other Land is essential viewing.
Why These Films Matter Right Now: Echoes of History and Calls for Justice
What’s striking about both I'm Still Here and No Other Land is their timeliness. They both tackle themes of political injustice oppression and the fight for human dignity. I'm Still Here looks back at Brazil's dictatorship but its message about surviving tough times resonates everywhere. No Other Land directly confronts the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict demanding attention to inequality and human rights.
These are not just movies they are calls to action. They remind us that film can be a powerful tool to raise awareness spark conversations and even inspire change. In a world facing so much turmoil these Oscar wins feel especially significant. They highlight stories that often go unheard and voices that deserve to be amplified.
Must-Know Facts About 'I'm Still Here' and 'No Other Land':
- I'm Still Here:
- Oscar Win: Best International Feature
- Country: Brazil
- Director: Walter Salles
- Star: Fernanda Torres (Oscar Nominee for Best Actress)
- Based On: True story set during Brazil's military dictatorship
- Themes: Political oppression family resilience fight for justice survival
- No Other Land:
- Oscar Win: Best Documentary Feature
- Directors: Basel Adra (Palestinian) and Yuval Abraham (Israeli)
- Focus: Forced displacement of Palestinians in West Bank
- Key Message: Call for equality justice and end to apartheid
- Controversy: Initial distribution challenges in US due to political themes
Don't Miss These Oscar Winners: Watch 'I'm Still Here' and 'No Other Land' and Join the Conversation
If you are looking for movies that are more than just entertainment check out I'm Still Here and No Other Land. They are Oscar winners for a reason. They tell important stories spark meaningful conversations and remind us of the power of film to connect us to the world and to each other. Seek them out watch them and let these powerful films move you and challenge you. You won't regret it.