An Oscar frontrunner is based on a true story – but whose truth is it?

‘I’m Still Here’ is inspired by the ‘disappearance’ of a real-life congressman in Seventies Brazil, and directed by Walter Salles, a childhood friend of the congressman’s family. It’s just the latest in a strange sub-genre of historical fiction made by filmmakers with insider access, writes Xan Brooks – for better and for worse

Feb 17, 2025 - 08:57
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An Oscar frontrunner is based on a true story – but whose truth is it?

‘I’m Still Here’ is inspired by the ‘disappearance’ of a real-life congressman in Seventies Brazil, and directed by Walter Salles, a childhood friend of the congressman’s family. It’s just the latest in a strange sub-genre of historical fiction made by filmmakers with insider access, writes Xan Brooks – for better and for worse