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International Oscar Contenders Expanding: New Entries from Multiple Nations

The race for the International Feature Film Oscar strengthens with several countries now submitting entries. The final nominations will be unveiled in December, leading up to the Academy Awards.

9/20/2026, 8:16:41 PM

The competition for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film is heating up as various countries have begun to submit their entries. The final deadline for these submissions is October 1st, and anticipation is building within the industry. According to Variety, many nations, including Romania, South Korea, Chile, and Germany, have put forth their candidates, adding depth to this year's roster. Following the submission deadline, the Oscars will reveal their shortlist of 15 qualifying films on December 15. This shortlist provides the groundwork for Academy members across all branches to select the films for nomination. All participating Academy members are expected to view each of the shortlisted films, which significantly influences final voting outcomes. The race for the International Feature Film award has gained significant attention, with countries diversifying their storytelling and showcasing unique cinematic viewpoints. Each entry reflects the rich cultural narratives and artistic expressions from its respective nation, making this category one of the most anticipated segments of the awards. The full list of contenders is still taking shape, and several countries are expected to announce their entries in the upcoming weeks. The growing interest in international films is a testament to the global filmmaking landscape's evolution, highlighted by the Academy's recognition of non-English language films in recent years. As the final submissions approach, filmmakers and audiences alike are eager to see which films will make it to the shortlist and ultimately be nominated for the coveted Oscar. The push for international representation is stronger than ever, with the Oscars serving as a global platform for diverse voices and narratives. With the announcement of nominees scheduled for early next year, the excitement continues to build, promising a competitive and engaging showcase of international cinema.

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