Walter Salles has long been one of Brazil’s most captivating filmmakers, weaving together deeply personal narratives with broader political themes. Renowned for acclaimed works such as Central Station (1998) and The Motorcycle Diaries (2004), his films often serve as journeys through human resilience and cultural discovery. Now, at 67, Salles returns with I’m Still Here, Brazil’s official submission for Best International Feature at this year’s Academy Awards.
Already a frontrunner at the Golden Globes, the film delivers a powerful portrayal of a family’s struggle for survival during Brazil’s military dictatorship—drawing inspiration from individuals Salles encountered in his youth. In a recent conversation with Euronews Culture, he shared his admiration for Moroccan culture, his concerns about artificial intelligence’s impact on cinema, and his belief that film remains the most vital medium for capturing humanity’s diverse voices.
With an estimated net worth of $20 million, Walter Salles has left a significant mark on both Brazilian and global cinema. However, his dedication to storytelling extends well beyond financial success—it’s about shedding light on untold stories and amplifying unheard voices. In this exploration, we delve into Salles’ cinematic journey, his latest film, and his perspective on why cinema remains one of the most powerful counterforces to the rising influence of artificial intelligence.
The Journey of I’m Still Here: A Personal and Political Narrative
More than just a film, I’m Still Here is a profoundly personal project for Walter Salles. Inspired by a family he befriended as a teenager during Brazil’s military dictatorship—a time of censorship, violence, and political repression—the story delves into themes of survival, memory, and resistance.
In an interview with Euronews Culture, Salles described the filmmaking process as an “emotional journey,” one that brought him back together with longtime collaborators, including the legendary Fernanda Montenegro and Fernanda Torres. Montenegro, renowned for her Oscar-nominated role in Central Station, returns to Salles’ cinematic world in a performance that carries significant emotional weight.
One of Salles’ greatest strengths as a director is his ability to seamlessly blend the personal with the political. His films do more than narrate stories—they expose unseen realities, making them feel both urgent and essential. This distinctive approach is likely to strike a chord with Academy voters, positioning Brazil as a strong contender for its first-ever Oscar for Best International Feature.
Walter Salles: A Filmmaker Shaped by Culture and Travel
Born on April 12, 1956, in Rio de Janeiro, Walter Salles was raised in an environment that deeply valued art and culture. His father, Walter Moreira Salles, a prominent banker and diplomat, played a pivotal role in shaping his global perspective. After studying at the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts, Salles returned to Brazil with a clear purpose: to craft stories that reflect the nation’s intricate social and political landscape.
His breakthrough came with Central Station, a film that not only won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival but also secured an Academy Award nomination. He later cemented his status as a master of the road movie genre with The Motorcycle Diaries, a biographical drama chronicling Che Guevara’s formative journey across South America. This film’s success further established Salles as a director uniquely skilled at capturing both the raw beauty and harsh realities of life’s journeys.
Walter Salles: A Filmmaker Who Refuses to Stand Still
With a net worth of $20 million, Walter Salles could easily take a step back and enjoy his success. Instead, his passion for cinema remains as strong as ever, constantly driving him to uncover new stories and amplify emerging voices.
A Deep Appreciation for Moroccan Culture
One of the most unexpected insights from Salles’ recent interview was his deep admiration for Moroccan culture—a fascination sparked by Trance, a film restored in 2007 by Martin Scorsese’s World Cinema Project. Reflecting on the experience, Salles remarked, “I was completely blown away by it… you are in a trance with Moroccan music.”
This appreciation aligns perfectly with Salles’ cinematic philosophy. He views film as a gateway to undiscovered worlds, fostering understanding and empathy. His recent visit to the Marrakech International Film Festival wasn’t just about promoting I’m Still Here—it was an opportunity to immerse himself in the culture that has profoundly influenced his artistic vision. His enthusiasm for Moroccan filmmakers and first-time directors was evident, reaffirming that even for a seasoned filmmaker, cinema remains an endless journey of learning and inspiration.
Cinema vs. Artificial Intelligence: Salles’ Stand
As artificial intelligence plays an increasing role in creative industries, Salles sees cinema as one of the last strongholds of human emotion and originality. When asked about AI’s impact on filmmaking, he was unequivocal: “Cinema has to be polyphonic in nature… it’s about unveiling a part of the world that you’re unaware of.”
For Salles, AI-driven storytelling—built on algorithms and predictability—stands in stark contrast to what makes cinema powerful. True filmmaking thrives on unpredictability, raw emotion, and the imperfections that make human stories resonate. This belief continues to fuel his work, reinforcing his conviction that only lived experiences can authentically capture the complexity of the world.
What’s Next for Walter Salles?
With I’m Still Here gaining momentum this awards season, the film world eagerly awaits Salles’ next move. Though he remains tight-lipped about upcoming projects, his passion for mentoring emerging filmmakers suggests he may focus on producing or guiding new talent. Given his appreciation for Moroccan and African cinema, a collaboration with filmmakers from these regions seems not only possible but highly likely.
Regardless of where his career takes him next, Salles’ legacy is already firmly established. From the streets of Brazil to the revolutionary landscapes of South America, his films serve as both a reflection and an exploration of the world’s many voices.
The Legacy of Walter Salles
More than just a filmmaker, Walter Salles is a storyteller, a cultural ambassador, and a champion of human-centered narratives. With a career built on capturing the diverse, polyphonic nature of life, his films do more than entertain—they immerse, educate, and inspire.
At a time when artificial intelligence threatens to homogenize creativity, Salles’ unwavering dedication to authentic storytelling is a powerful reminder of what makes cinema truly irreplaceable. And as he continues to seek out new stories and perspectives, one thing is certain—Walter Salles is still here, and his faith in the power of film remains stronger than ever.
