Oscar Race Begins: France and Spain Declare Submissions for 2027 International Feature Film Category

The global race for cinema’s top honor is officially heating up as key international heavyweights declare their formal entries for the 99th Academy Awards. Major European film powerhouses, including France and Spain, are among the latest nations to confirm their submissions for the Best International Feature Film category, kicking off an intense global campaign leading up to the 2027 ceremony. Securing a country's official endorsement is the crucial first step on the grueling, multi-month road to Oscar night. National selection committees across the globe are currently reviewing their top home-grown releases, picking a single title to represent their country's artistic output on the world's biggest stage. Winning that internal endorsement immediately puts a film on the radar of Hollywood insiders, critics, and global tastemakers.

Who decides best international feature film submissions

Both France and Spain enter the 2027 Oscar campaign with storied reputations and high expectations. France historically boasts one of the most impressive records in the category, frequently delivering prestige cinema that captures major international accolades and festival buzz. Spain similarly holds a formidable track record, consistently turning out visionary storytelling and auteur-driven projects that resonate with American audiences and Academy voters alike. To qualify for consideration at the 99th Academy Awards, submitted films must adhere to strict guidelines established by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Entries must be produced predominantly outside the United States and feature dialogue that is mostly non-English. Designated committees within each country evaluate eligible titles released theatrically during the qualification window before casting their final ballots.

How does the international oscar race work

Once national selections are finalized, filmmakers and distributors pivot into high-stakes promotional campaigns targeting Academy voters across North America. Exclusive industry screenings, panel discussions, and tastemaker receptions are organized in key cities to generate momentum. Members from various Academy branches then participate in rigorous screening rounds to trim the global field down to an official shortlist. From that narrowed group, final voting determines the five nominated films that will contend for the iconic statuette on Oscar night. As additional countries declare their submissions over the coming weeks, awards experts and film fans will be monitoring the lineup closely to identify the early frontrunners capable of capturing Hollywood’s highest honor.