Oscars: South Africa Submits ‘The Heart Is A Muscle’ For International Feature Race

Bangladesh has made an exciting choice by selecting Leesa Gazi's debut feature 'A House Named Shahana' as its entry for the best international feature film category at the 98th Academy Awards. This film, inspired by Gazi's own novella, captures the essence of rural life in Bangladesh during the 1990s and tells the poignant story of Dipa, a young woman facing significant challenges. This selection not only highlights the country's cinematic talent but also brings attention to important social issues, making it a significant moment for Bangladeshi cinema on the global stage.

China has officially selected the film 'Dead to Rights' as its entry for the best international feature film category at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Shen Ao, this poignant film is set against the harrowing backdrop of the 1937 Nanjing Massacre, bringing to light a significant historical event through its narrative. This selection not only highlights China's cinematic contributions but also aims to raise awareness about a crucial part of history, making it a significant moment for both the film industry and cultural representation.

As the summer film festival season winds down, excitement is building for the 2026 Oscars. With the New York Film Festival starting this weekend, the race for Oscar nominations is heating up. Although we won't see the official nominations until next year, the influx of International Feature Film submissions is already setting the stage for a competitive awards season. This matters because the Oscars not only celebrate cinematic achievements but also influence trends in the film industry and highlight diverse storytelling.

Dolly Parton has announced the postponement of her Las Vegas residency for one year due to health challenges. While this news may concern fans, Parton reassured them that she is not stepping away from her career, emphasizing that she feels called to continue her work. This postponement highlights the importance of health and well-being, even for beloved entertainers, and fans can look forward to her return when she is ready.

This Monday Night Football features an exciting doubleheader with the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins, both looking for their first win of the season. The game takes place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, and kicks off at 7:15 p.m. ET. This matchup is significant as it could set the tone for the rest of the season for both teams, making it a must-watch for NFL fans.

Sarah Ferguson's recent email correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein is raising serious concerns about her relationship with her daughters, Princess Eugenie and Beatrice. This revelation could significantly damage the trust they have built over the years, as it brings to light troubling associations that may affect their family dynamics. The implications of this scandal are profound, not just for their personal relationships but also for their public image.

Blockchain technology is revolutionizing data management in higher education by enhancing the security and integrity of academic records and credentials. As universities face the challenges of the digital age, this innovative solution not only ensures transparency but also empowers students by giving them control over their own data. This shift is significant as it addresses long-standing issues in record-keeping and fosters trust in academic institutions.

The podcast 'Right Now with John Goblikon' has officially joined the All Things Comedy network, co-founded by comedians Bill Burr and Al Madrigal. This move is exciting for fans as it brings the unique blend of comedy and music from John, the goblin frontman of the death metal band Nekrogoblikon, to a wider audience. Originally a web series, the show features interviews with various personalities from the stand-up and music scenes, making it a must-listen for those who appreciate humor and creativity.

Natalie Dormer, known for her role in 'Game of Thrones', has distanced herself from the promotion of her upcoming project 'The Lady' due to the controversy surrounding Sarah Ferguson's connections to Jeffrey Epstein. This decision highlights the impact of personal scandals on professional endeavors, especially in the entertainment industry, where public perception can significantly influence a project's success.