The Academy Has Reveales the Best International Feature Contenders Shortlist for the 2026 Oscars

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As a movie critic, I’ve been following the International Feature Film category closely, and the shortlist for the 2026 Oscars is really exciting. Fifteen films have made the cut from an incredible field of 86 submissions worldwide! What’s particularly impressive is that Academy members across all disciplines – not just those focused on international films – are involved in both the shortlisting and nomination voting. It feels like this year’s selection is genuinely one of the most diverse and globally interesting we’ve seen in a long time, and I’m eager to see which films ultimately land those coveted nomination spots.

‘Belén’ (2025)

“Belén” is a 2025 Argentine film about a woman who was wrongly imprisoned after experiencing a miscarriage, and the lawyer who fought for her freedom. Directed by and starring Dolores Fonzi, the movie is based on a true story and highlights issues of injustice and reproductive rights in Argentina. The case sparked national debate and large-scale protests, and the film has been selected as Argentina’s submission for the Oscars.

‘The Secret Agent’ (2025)

‘The Secret Agent’ is a critically acclaimed 2025 Brazilian thriller directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho. The film tells the story of a former professor struggling with persecution and fighting back during the final years of Brazil’s military dictatorship. It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, winning many awards and earning a place on Brazil’s shortlist for the Oscars.

‘It Was Just an Accident’ (2025)

The French film ‘It Was Just an Accident,’ made with support from Luxembourg and possibly other countries, is a drama that examines the complex aftermath of a sudden, life-altering event. Though specific details about the story are limited, it’s one of the fifteen films competing for the Best International Feature Film award this year.

‘Sound of Falling’ (2025)

As a film lover, I’ve been keeping an eye on Germany’s submission for international Oscar consideration this year, ‘Sound of Falling.’ It’s a really thoughtful, character-driven drama that explores how people change alongside the world around them. It’s already been generating some buzz in awards conversations, which is fantastic – it’s great to see German cinema consistently represented among films getting international attention.

‘Homebound’ (2025)

‘Homebound’ is an Indian drama film directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, the film tells the story of two friends in a rural setting and their dreams. It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and has received critical praise, earning a spot on India’s Oscar shortlist.

‘The President’s Cake’ (2025)

‘The President’s Cake’ is Iraq’s submission for consideration, and it’s been noticed for the way it combines a personal story with the broader issues facing the country. This year, four films from the Arab world made the shortlist, highlighting the growing presence of regional storytelling in international film.

‘Kokuho’ (2025)

‘Kokuho’ is Japan’s entry for the Best International Feature Film Oscar. The film was selected through Japan’s official process and stands out for its strong story and focus on Japanese culture and characters.

‘All That’s Left of You’ (2025)

‘All That’s Left of You,’ a film directed by Cherien Dabis, has been shortlisted for an award. This family drama, set across generations, explores both history and personal connections, offering a fresh viewpoint from Jordanian filmmaking.

‘Sentimental Value’ (2025)

“Sentimental Value” is a Norwegian film that tells a very personal story while also exploring themes that resonate with everyone. It’s considered one of the best international films this year and showcases Norway’s history of making movies focused on compelling characters.

‘Palestine 36’ (2025)

Palestine 36 is a historical drama representing Palestine in contention for awards. The film, directed by Annemarie Jacir, tells the story of the Arab revolt in the 1930s, blending historical accuracy with compelling filmmaking and adding to the variety of international films this year.

‘No Other Choice’ (2025)

Park Chan-wook’s film, ‘No Other Choice,’ is South Korea’s submission for consideration. The movie is gaining recognition for its gripping story and impressive filmmaking, highlighting South Korea’s growing influence in the international film world.

‘Sirāt’ (2025)

‘Sirât’ is Spain’s submission for the Oscars, a compelling road movie about a father and son’s journey of self-discovery through Morocco. The film previously earned the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

‘Late Shift’ (2025)

‘Late Shift’ is a Swiss drama about a committed nurse and the difficulties she faces while working in a hospital. The film first shown at the Berlin Film Festival and has since gained recognition both in Switzerland and abroad.

‘Left-Handed Girl’ (2025)

‘Left-Handed Girl’ is Taiwan’s submission for consideration, and it’s been praised for its straightforward yet moving story. The film beautifully showcases Taiwanese filmmaking and connects with viewers from all over the world, gaining international recognition.

‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ (2025)

Kaouther Ben Hania’s film, ‘The Voice of Hind Rajab,’ is a Tunisian-French docudrama based on the heartbreaking true story of a young girl killed in Gaza and the attempts by Red Crescent volunteers to save her. The film gained significant recognition, winning awards at the Venice Film Festival and being selected as Tunisia’s submission for the Oscars.

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2025-12-17 23:45