One of the five films selected represents Germany at the Oscars.
The race for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards is heating up, and Germany has narrowed down its selection to five outstanding films. The official decision on which film will represent the country in the prestigious award will be announced later, but for now, let's take a look at the five contenders.
- AMRUM by Fatih Akin
Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Fatih Akin, "Amrum" promises a compelling storyline. The film features Diane Kruger and is currently in contention for Germany's submission to the Oscars.
- CRANKO (JOHN CRANKO) by Joachim A. Lang
"Cranko," directed by Joachim Lang, is another contender in Germany's selection for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. The film features Sam Riley.
- RIEFENSTAHL by Andres Veiel
A third film in Germany's selection is the documentary "Riefenstahl," produced by Sandra Maischberger. Directed by Andres Veiel, this film offers a deep dive into a significant historical figure.
- SOUND OF FALLING (IN DIE SONNE SCHAUEN) by Mascha Schilinski
"In die Sonne schauen," directed by Mascha Schilinski, is another film in Germany's selection for the Oscars. This film won a prize at Cannes, adding to its prestige.
- THE TIGER (DER TIGER) by Dennis Gansel
Lastly, "Tiger," an anti-war film directed by Dennis Gansel, is also part of Germany's selection for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. Notably, this film is an original production by streaming service Amazon.
Being selected by Germany does not guarantee that a film will make it to the shortlist or be nominated for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. A shortlist of 15 international films, including all countries' submissions, will be announced on December 16, 2025. The nominations for the award will be announced on January 22, 2026, and the ceremony will take place on March 15, 2026.
The independent jury of experts will decide which of the five films Germany will submit to the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. The decision will be announced on August 21 by German Films, the country's film promotion organization.
The submission of candidates for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars is ongoing, with countries around the world submitting their best films for consideration. Stay tuned for updates on Germany's final selection and the race for the Best International Feature Film award at the 98th Academy Awards.
[1] Academy Awards timeline [2] German Films announcement
These five films are being considered by Germany for submission to the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards: "Amrum" directed by Fatih Akin, "Cranko (John Cranko)" by Joachim A. Lang, the documentary "Riefenstahl" by Andres Veiel, "In die Sonne schauen" directed by Mascha Schilinski, and "Tiger" an anti-war film directed by Dennis Gansel. These films are contending to represent Germany in the movies-and-tv and entertainment sector.
