Iranian cinema shines at 2026 Oscars with three bold nominations
Iranian filmmakers are making a strong impression at the 2026 Academy Awards. Three major nominations highlight their growing influence in global cinema, with works spanning documentary, drama, and international features. The Oscars ceremony will take place in Los Angeles on 15 March 2026.
Darius Khondji, a renowned Iranian cinematographer, has earned a nomination for his work on Marty Supreme. His visual storytelling adds to a long tradition of Iranian talent shaping arthouse cinema, where philosophical depth often meets intimate portrayals of daily life.
Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni's documentary *Cutting Through Rocks* is shortlisted for best documentary feature. The film follows a midwife fighting for women's rights in her community, blending personal struggle with broader themes of resistance. During production, the filmmakers faced interrogations, equipment confiscations, and travel bans, yet completed the project despite these challenges. Jafar Panahi's *It Was Just an Accident* is nominated in two categories: best international feature and best original screenplay. The film explores the lingering trauma of state repression, drawing from Panahi's own experiences with political persecution. His work continues a legacy of Iranian storytelling that has previously won acclaim at the Oscars, including Asghar Farhadi's victories for *Nader und Simin* and *The Salesman* in the best international feature category. The red carpet will once again spotlight these human stories, offering a platform for narratives that often go unnoticed amid political tensions.
The nominations reflect Iran's enduring impact on world cinema, from documentaries to scripted drama. With the Oscars approaching, these films will bring renewed attention to the challenges and creativity of Iranian filmmakers. Their work remains a vital part of contemporary storytelling.
