Every International Feature Film Shortlisted for Oscars 

The Oscars are just around the corner, and while everyone’s always looking forward to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, this year’s international feature shortlist is truly something to talk about.

Out of 85 countries vying for the Best International Feature Film spot at the 97th Oscars, only 15 made the cut! From gripping thrillers and laugh-out-loud comedies to toe-tapping musicals and stunning animated gems, this shortlist packs a global punch of stories.

Some of these films have already made waves at prestigious film festivals, while others have quietly made their mark with passionate audiences. The competition is tough, and these 15 movies are chasing that elusive Oscar nod. In this article, we’ll dive into each of the 15 shortlisted films.

1. Brazil, I’m Still Here

Brazil’s official Oscar entry, I’m Still Here, is making waves for all the right reasons. Directed by Walter Salles—the genius behind Central Station—this film delivers a story that lingers long after the credits roll.

Already boasting the Best Screenplay award from Cannes, it’s clear I’m Still Here is something special. The film dives into existential themes, following a character’s quest for meaning in life.

2. Canada, Universal Language

Canada’s pick, Universal Language, stands out from the rest. Directed by Matthew Rankin, it throws you into a weird alternate reality where the Canadian cities of Winnipeg, Quebec, and Tehran somehow blend into one bizarre place.

The film stars Rankin himself, alongside an ensemble cast that speaks in a blend of Persian, French, and English. The film has won major awards at festivals like TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) and Vancouver International Film Festival, which definitely adds to its Oscar hype.

3. Czech Republic, Waves

Directed by Jiri Madl, Waves is a gripping historical thriller that has already made waves in its home country. This film dives into a heartbreaking chapter of Czech history and has already hit over 1 million admissions in Czech cinemas.

It’s filled with with emotion and suspense, giving a raw look at life during wartime. With its gripping story and bold direction, it’s no surprise Waves landed on the Oscars shortlist.

4. Denmark, The Girl With the Needle

Denmark’s entry, The Girl With the Needle, is a black-and-white drama that is as chilling as it is mesmerizing. Directed by Magnus von Horn, this film is based on the true story of a serial killer in Copenhagen who murdered babies between 1913 and 1920.

It premiered at Cannes, grabbing critical attention. With standout performances from Trine Dyrholm and Vic Carmen Sonnestar, the film doesn’t hold back on tough subjects, delivering a chilling look at a disturbing piece of history.

5. France, Emilia Pérez

Directed by a visionary filmmaker, Emilia Pérez combines crime with musical elements in a way that you don’t see every day. The story follows Emilia Pérez, caught in the middle of a chaotic, dangerous mess. It’s a crime film at its core, but it’s filled with music, vibrant visuals, and surprising twists. 

This film stands out not just for its story, but also for its six Academy Award shortlist nominations, including Best International Feature, Original Score, and Makeup & Hairstyling. 

6. Germany, The Seed of the Sacred Fig

Germany’s entry, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, is a political thriller that tackles one of the most important issues of our time. Set against the backdrop of the 2022 protests in Iran, the film blends fiction with real footage of the protests, making it a raw and powerful viewing experience. 

Directed by Mohammad Rasoulof, the film dives into the struggles of everyday people fighting for their rights and freedom. It made a splash at Cannes, winning multiple awards.

7. Iceland, Touch

Directed by Baltasar Kormákur (who’s known for Hollywood hits like Everest), Touch follows a decades-spanning story about a couple’s evolving relationship. 

Touch might not have been a major hit on the international festival circuit, but it became a surprise success in the U.S., where it resonated deeply with audiences. The film is a meditation on the highs and lows of love, exploring how people change and grow over time.

8. Ireland, Kneecap

Ireland’s Kneecap is a bold and funny rap comedy that blends humor with serious social commentary. The film follows three characters from Northern Ireland and explores issues like identity, politics, and the struggles of everyday life.

It even won the Audience Award at Sundance! The film’s ability to tackle serious topics with humor and music makes it stand out in a category full of heavy dramas.

9. Italy, Vermiglio

Italy’s Vermiglio is a beautifully shot period drama set in 1944, a time when the world was torn apart by war. Directed by Maura Delpero, the film takes place in a small village in the Italian Alps, where the arrival of a deserted soldier disrupts the life of a family. It premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the prestigious Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize.

10. Latvia, Flow

Latvia’s Flow is an animated feature that is as visually stunning as it is heartwarming. Directed by Gints Zilbalodis, this film follows the journey of a cat who teams up with a bunch of unlikely animal companions to survive a flood and find dry land.

The animation is gorgeous, with a soft, dreamy quality that makes it stand out in the world of animated films. Flow won several awards at the Annecy Animation Festival, including Best Original Music and Audience Award.

11. Norway, Armand

Norway’s Armand is a family drama that has earned a lot of praise for its emotional depth and strong performances. Directed by Ullmann Tøndel, Armand is about two mothers who are forced to deal with the fallout of their children’s complicated relationship. The film premiered at Cannes and won the Camera d’Or for Best First Film.

12. Palestine, From Ground Zero

Palestine’s From Ground Zero is a truly unique film that tells the story of Gaza from the perspectives of 22 different Palestinian directors.

The film is an anthology of short stories, including documentaries, fiction, animation, and experimental works, all about life in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict. From Ground Zero premiered at the Amman International Film Festival and later had its North American debut at TIFF.

13. Senegal, Dahomey

Senegal’s Dahomey is a historical drama that tells the story of the rise and fall of the ancient Dahomey kingdom, once a powerful regional force in West Africa. Directed by Mati Diop, the film is set against the backdrop of one of Africa’s most fascinating historical periods.

14. Thailand, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies

Thailand’s How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is a surprisingly popular comedy that became a box office hit across Asia. The film tells the story of a lazy young man who agrees to take care of his terminally ill grandmother in the hopes of getting her inheritance when she dies.

15. United Kingdom, Santosh

Directed by Sandhya Suri, the film follows a young Indian woman who must balance her family’s traditional expectations with her own desires and dreams. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and was praised for its rich, layered narrative.