Neon Sweeps Oscars Shortlist with Record Five Nominations

The international feature film category offered few surprises on the shortlist for the upcoming Oscars, with distributor Neon securing a record five of the 15 available slots. Switzerland's "Late Shift" edged out the United Kingdom's "My Father's Shadow," despite the latter's recent Gotham Award win for lead actor Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù. Women directors also made their mark in this year's selections, with seven of the 15 international feature films directed by women. According to Clayton Davis, chief awards editor at Variety, the competition in the international feature category was intense, but Neon's dominance was a notable trend. "Neon has been a force to be reckoned with in the awards season, and their five selections in the international feature category are a testament to their commitment to showcasing diverse and innovative storytelling," Davis said. The shortlist for the international feature category includes a diverse range of films from around the world, including "Sirât" from Turkey, which has been gaining buzz for its poignant portrayal of a young woman's journey. "Sentimental Value," a film from the United States, also made the cut, despite being a relatively unknown title in the awards circuit. The selection of women directors in the international feature category is a significant milestone, reflecting the growing recognition of women's contributions to the film industry. "It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of women filmmakers around the world, who are pushing the boundaries of storytelling and challenging traditional narratives," said Davis. The international feature category has been a highlight of the Oscars in recent years, with films like "Parasite" and "Roma" making a significant impact on the awards circuit. This year's shortlist is expected to be just as competitive, with many films vying for the top prize. As the awards season heats up, fans and industry professionals alike will be watching closely to see which films make the final cut. The Oscars will be held on March 27, 2026, and the nominees will be announced in the coming weeks.