Culture

Complete List of French Submissions for the Academy Award

Selim Mia

Selim Mia

— 2 min read
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A film set with crews working on a French movie.

France has a rich cinematic tradition and has submitted numerous films for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. This list details the films that France has put forward each year, notable wins, and nominations. Understanding these submissions can provide insights into the themes and trends in French cinema.

Criteria for Selection by the French Academy

The films submitted by France for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film are chosen by the French Academy based on several factors:

  • Artistic merit: The film's narrative, direction, and overall quality.
  • Cultural significance: The film's representation of French culture and its relevance to contemporary issues.
  • Critical reception: Reviews and feedback from both audiences and critics are considered.

These criteria help ensure that the selected films showcase the best of French cinema each year.

What films has France submitted for the Academy Award?

2023

  • "The Taste of Things"

2022

  • "Saint Omer"

2021

  • "Two of Us"

2020

  • "Les Misérables"

2019

  • "The Sisters Brothers"

2018

  • "120 BPM"

2017

  • "The Innocents"

2016

  • "Mustang"

2015

  • "Dheepan"

2014

  • "Blue Is the Warmest Color"

2013

  • "Rust and Bone"

2012

  • "The Intouchables"

2011

  • "Of Gods and Men"

2010

  • "A Prophet"

2009

  • "Persepolis"

2008

  • "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly"

2007

  • "The Lives of Others"

2006

  • "The Beat That My Heart Skipped"

Why do some films get overlooked?

Despite the quality of many films, some deserving works are not submitted for consideration. Factors contributing to this include:

  • Competition: The large number of films released each year makes selection highly competitive.
  • Timing: A film's release date can affect its visibility and momentum during award seasons.
  • Cultural preference: The selection committee may favor films that align more closely with traditional narratives considered representative of French cinema.

As a result, some exceptional films may remain under the radar, missing the opportunity for Oscar recognition.

Conclusion

Exploring this list of French submissions can deepen your understanding of the evolution of French cinema and its global impact. If you're studying notable films, consider watching those that received nominations or wins, as they often epitomize French storytelling. Stay tuned for future submissions to observe how new themes and voices emerge in this vibrant film industry.

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