The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has narrowed the field in one of its most closely watched categories, unveiling the 15 films that will continue competing for a nomination in Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Academy Awards.

Drawn from a wide spectrum of cultures, languages, and cinematic traditions, this year’s shortlisted titles reflect the increasingly global character of contemporary filmmaking. From intimate personal dramas to politically resonant narratives, the selected films underscore how stories rooted in specific places can resonate far beyond national borders.

The shortlist marks a critical stage in the awards process, as voting members of the Academy now turn their attention to these films ahead of the final nominations announcement scheduled for 22 January. Winners will be revealed during the Academy Awards ceremony on 15 March.

Stories without borders

The films advancing to the next round represent voices from across continents, each offering a distinct cinematic perspective:

• Belén – Argentina

• The Secret Agent – Brazil

• It Was Just an Accident – France

• Sound of Falling – Germany

• Homebound – India

• The President’s Cake – Iraq

• Kokuho – Japan

• All That’s Left of You – Jordan

• Sentimental Value – Norway

• Palestine 36 – Palestine

• No Other Choice – South Korea

• Sirât – Spain

• Late Shift – Switzerland

• Left-Handed Girl – Taiwan

• The Voice of Hind Rajab – Tunisia

Together, these works span a wide emotional and thematic range, tackling issues of memory, displacement, identity, power, and resilience. Some lean toward quiet introspection, while others confront social and political realities head-on, underscoring cinema’s enduring ability to reflect both personal truth and collective experience.

From this shortlist, only five films will ultimately earn official nominations—a distinction that often brings global visibility and renewed interest to international cinema. For filmmakers, advancing to this stage alone already marks a significant achievement, signaling recognition from one of the world’s most influential film institutions.