The film ‘Sirat’, directed by Oliver Laxe, has been selected by the Academy of Arts and Cinematographic Sciences to represent Spain in the International Feature Film category at the 98th Annual Academy Awards, which will take place on 15th March 2026.
This announcement was made on Wednesday by director Pablo Berger at the Academy’s headquarters, surpassing other potential candidates including ‘Sorda’, directed by Eva Libertad, and ‘Romería’, directed by Carla Simón.
After hearing the news, Oliver Laxe spoke to the media via video call and confessed that he had “never” thought one of his films would be in the Oscar running. However, he is coming to terms with the possibility as the distributor Neon “sees options” for it to be nominated.
“I think there are chances; we are featured in all the predictions. ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ has included us again, and talking with Neon, they see possibilities. It won’t be easy, but I believe there’s a fifth slot that could be a bit open,” explained the filmmaker, who feels that his film could be the “dark horse.”
Reception and Global Plans
Laxe assured that ‘Sirat’ is “taking off” in France and is resonating well with audiences. The plan is to create a buzz in other countries. “We have a plan for screenings in Paris, Tokyo, London, and Mexico City. I don’t aspire for more, but I am open to what life brings,” he said. He also believes that American audiences are accustomed to “engaging” with this type of film.
Support from Industry Peers
In this context, producer Esther García, who will receive the Donostia Award on Saturday 20th September, stressed that ‘Sirat’ will go “wherever there are Academy members.” Agustín Almodóvar also noted the significance of having Neon as a distributor due to the “natural synergy” created between a film’s release campaign in the United States and its campaign for the International Feature Film nomination.
Looking Ahead to the Oscars
‘Sirat’ is now on its path to the Oscars, awaiting the Academy’s decision on whether it makes the initial shortlist of ten titles. Last year, Spain’s nomination went to ‘Segundo Premio’, directed by Isaki Lacuesta and Pol Rodríguez, which did not make it to the final five nominees.
Moreover, both Esther García and Agustín Almodóvar have urged Spanish Academy voters to support the nomination as it will be “decisive and vital,” emphasising the importance of engagement with the project.
Almodóvar called for efforts to “mobilise” votes for ‘Sirat’ to progress beyond the initial phase and secure a place on the shortlist. “If you are involved in a film, you are motivated. So from here, we ask everyone to lend us a hand,” he emphasised.
Agencies EP
