The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that films from 86 countries are competing for the 2026 International Feature Film Oscar. Germany enters the drama «In die Sonne schauen» by director Mascha Schilinski. The shortlist of 15 films will be revealed on December 16.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills announced that 86 countries have submitted entries for the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards in 2026. Last year, 85 nations participated. Germany's entry is the drama «In die Sonne schauen», directed by Berlin-based Mascha Schilinski. German Films selected the film in August 2025. It follows four young women living at different times on a farm in the Altmark region, exploring issues like domestic violence, suppressed desires, and inherited traumas.
Other submissions include France's «Ein einfacher Unfall» by Iranian director Jafar Panahi, Norway's family drama «Sentimental Value», Spain's road movie «Sirât», Brazil's thriller «The Secret Agent», and Switzerland's «Heldin» starring Leonie Benesch.
The selection process involves choosing 15 films for a shortlist, to be announced on December 16, 2025. Five finalists will be named on January 22, 2026. The ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026.
Germany has had recent successes: In January 2025, Mohammad Rasoulof's political thriller «Die Saat des heiligen Feigenbaums» reached the final round, but the award went to Walter Salles' Brazilian drama «Für immer hier». In 2023, Edward Berger's adaptation «Im Westen nichts Neues» won four Oscars, including in the international category.