Brazil Celebrates First Oscar Win During Carnival

Brazil celebrated a historic win at the Oscars on March 2, 2025, as the film 'I'm Still Here' directed by Walter Salles took home the award for Best International Film during the vibrant Carnival festivities. The announcement of the win resonated through Rio de Janeiro's Sambadrome, where around 70,000 revelers celebrated with screams and hugs, blending the national pride of the film's achievement with the exuberance of Carnival. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed pride in the nation's cinema and democracy following the announcement. The film, which explores the disappearance of former congressman Ruben Paiva during Brazil's military dictatorship, also garnered nominations for Best Picture and Best Actress for Fernanda Torres. The win is expected to boost economic activity generated by Carnival, projected to reach nearly $1 billion. The excitement surrounding the Oscars was palpable, with billboards supporting Torres and the film throughout the streets of Rio.