The Academy, that presents Oscar awards, announced a shortlist of films to compete for nominations in various categories. The Academy shortlisted 15 films in the International film category. But India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards, “Laapataa Ladies,” did not advance to the shortlist.
The film, produced by Aamir Khan and directed by Kiran Rao, won rave reviews in India, but the film didn’t make it to the shortlist itself.
Many have expressed their opinion that the Indian committee ought to have nominated Payal Kapadia’s “All We Imagine As Light” for Best International Film, as it stands a better chance than “Laapataa Ladies”. Payal Kapadia’s film better aligns with the tastes of the international cinema jury.
The list of 15 shortlisted films includes five that will receive nominations and one that will win the Best International Film award.
International Feature Film – Shortlist
I’m Still Here (Brazil)
Universal Language (Canada)
Waves (Czech Republic)
The Girl With the Needle (Denmark)
Emilia Pérez (France)
The Seed of the Sacred Fig (Germany)
Touch (Iceland)
Kneecap (Ireland)
Vermiglio (Italy)
Flow (Latvia)
Armand (Norway)
From Ground Zero (Palestine)
Dahomey (Senegal)
How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (Thailand)
Santosh (United Kingdom)
