The Oscars' International Feature Film category is heating up, with a staggering 86 films sent to voters this year—a slight uptick from last year's 85. But here's where it gets controversial: is this category becoming too crowded, or is it a celebration of global cinema's diversity? Let's dive in.
The Academy has assigned these films to seven groups of voters, each tasked with watching 12 or 13 movies. And this is the part most people miss: the grouping isn't random. It's a carefully curated mix of regions, genres, and running times, ensuring voters get a well-rounded cinematic experience. But does this approach truly guarantee a fair selection, or could it inadvertently sideline certain films?
Among the contenders are high-profile entries like Tunisia’s The Voice of Hind Rajab, Belgium’s Young Mothers, and Japan’s Kokuho. Notably absent, however, is Thailand’s A Useful Ghost, which premiered at Cannes. This raises questions: are submission formalities hindering deserving films, or is the Academy simply upholding necessary standards?
First-round voting kicks off December 9–12, with a shortlist of 15 announced on December 16. The final five nominees will emerge after a second round, open to any member who’s seen all shortlisted films. But with only 57 of the 86 films available in the Academy Screening Room at the time of assignments, could accessibility issues skew the results?
Here’s the full list of assigned films, spanning from Albania’s Luna Park to Vietnam’s Red Rain. Each title represents a unique story, but will they all get a fair shot? That’s for voters—and you—to debate.
What do you think? Is the Oscars' International Feature Film category a true celebration of global cinema, or does its process need rethinking? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
