Producer Rodrigo Teixeira, behind the film 'Ainda Estou Aqui', stated in an interview at the Tiradentes Film Festival that Brazil's recent Oscar success must drive public policies and talent development to avoid being an isolated event. He outlined a historical timeline, noting how 'Parasita' opened doors for international cinema and regretting missed opportunities with 'Cidade de Deus'. Teixeira sees empowerment in the industry but anticipates a hiatus without new potent projects.
Rodrigo Teixeira, producer of 'Ainda Estou Aqui', which won the Oscar for best international feature in 2025, took part in a panel at the Tiradentes Film Festival on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. He drew historical parallels to explain Brazilian cinema's impact on the awards. "‘Parasita’ is a gift to international cinema," Teixeira told Folha. He explained that Bong Joon-ho's 2020 win united international voters, opening space for foreign films among best picture nominees.
Teixeira regretted the case of 'Cidade de Deus' by Fernando Meirelles, released in 2002 in Brazil and 2003 abroad. Selected by Ancine for the 2003 Oscars, the film was rejected by the Academy due to scheduling issues and incompetence from distributor Miramax. The following year, it earned nominations in direction, adapted screenplay, editing, and cinematography, but no wins. "‘Cidade de Deus’ was harmed by the international distributor's incompetence," he stated.
Following the successes of 'Ainda Estou Aqui' and 'O Agente Secreto' by Kleber Mendonça Filho starring Wagner Moura, Teixeira sees no immediate chances for new Brazilian nominations. "On my radar, I'm not seeing a film yet with the potency of ‘O Agente Secreto’ and ‘Ainda Estou Aqui’," he pondered. Still, he highlights benefits: "Being nominated two years in a row for best picture is a sign of empowerment. And I think we won't lose that."
The producer questions how to avoid isolation: "How do we make sure this isn't an isolated act? So that this empowerment improves public policies, gives talents more chance, youth training happens." He mentions the growth of Brazilian Academy voters, from 15 ten years ago to about 80 today, and the importance of Latin American coordination. "The Oscar is a TV show. You need audience, and it's not just in the United States."
Teixeira recalled the initial buzz for 'O Agente Secreto', which premiered at Cannes in May 2025, winning best director and actor awards, and was tipped as strong by Neon executive Ryan Werner.
