Colombia Sends ‘A Poet’ to the Oscars

Jafar Panahi, celebrated for his Cannes-winning film 'It Was Just an Accident', is calling on the Academy to reform its process for international Oscar submissions. Speaking at the Busan International Film Festival, he emphasized the need to break the government's control over these submissions, which could lead to a more diverse representation of global cinema. This advocacy is crucial as it highlights the importance of artistic freedom and the need for a fair platform for filmmakers worldwide.

France has chosen Jafar Panahi's acclaimed film 'It Was Just An Accident' as its candidate for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. This selection, made by a committee from France's National Cinema Centre, highlights the film's artistic merit and the country's commitment to showcasing exceptional international cinema. Panahi's work has garnered significant recognition, and this nomination could further elevate his profile on the global stage.

Kristen Stewart's directorial debut, 'The Chronology of Water,' has been acquired by BFI Distribution for the UK and Ireland, following a successful festival tour that began with its premiere at Cannes. This acquisition is significant as it allows UK audiences to experience Stewart's artistic vision, showcasing her growth as a filmmaker and the film's potential impact on the indie film scene.

Jafar Panahi is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival this October, a recognition that highlights his significant contributions to cinema. The award will be presented by Oscar-winning director Giuseppe Tornatore, adding to the event's prestige. Panahi will also showcase his film 'It Was Just An Accident,' which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes 2025. This honor not only celebrates Panahi's artistic legacy but also emphasizes the importance of supporting filmmakers who challenge societal norms.

Khadar Ayderus Ahmed, the talented Finnish Somali filmmaker known for his acclaimed debut 'The Gravedigger’s Wife,' is working on an exciting new project titled 'Thundering Smoke.' This film tells the story of a middle-aged Somali hitwoman seeking vengeance against a crime boss in her village. This project is significant as it showcases diverse narratives in cinema and highlights Ahmed's unique voice in storytelling, which will be presented at the Finnish Film Affair.

Spain has officially submitted 'Sirât,' directed by Oliver Laxe, as its entry for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Oscars. This film, which recently won the jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival, was selected by the Spanish Film Academy from a shortlist of three contenders. This recognition not only highlights the film's artistic merit but also showcases Spain's vibrant cinema on an international stage, making it a significant moment for Spanish filmmakers.

Colombia has chosen Simón Mesa Soto's film 'A Poet' as its entry for the 2026 Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category. This film, which premiered at Cannes and won the jury prize in the Un Certain Regard section, has already made waves at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). This selection highlights Colombia's growing presence in the international film scene and showcases the talent of emerging filmmakers like Soto.

Karol G is set to make history as the first Latina headliner at Coachella 2026, following Bad Bunny's groundbreaking performance as the first Latino headliner in 2023. This milestone not only highlights the growing representation of Latin artists in major music festivals but also showcases the cultural impact of Latin music on a global scale. Karol G's achievement is a significant step forward for diversity in the music industry, inspiring future generations of artists.

Brazil has submitted 'The Secret Agent' for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, the film features Wagner Moura and has garnered attention for its compelling narrative.

Editor’s Note: This submission highlights Brazil's vibrant film industry and its ongoing contributions to global cinema. 'The Secret Agent' represents the country's artistic talent and could enhance its visibility on an international stage.

Brazil has chosen 'The Secret Agent,' directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho and starring Wagner Moura, as its official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards. This decision follows a national debate and controversy surrounding the selection process.

Editor’s Note: This selection is significant as it highlights Brazil's cinematic contributions on an international stage, especially in a year filled with discussions about representation in film. 'The Secret Agent' brings a unique narrative that could resonate with audiences and voters alike.

Poland has chosen Agnieszka Holland's biopic 'Franz' about Franz Kafka for the Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Oscars. This announcement follows its recent premiere at TIFF.

Editor’s Note: This selection highlights Poland's commitment to showcasing its cinematic talent on an international stage. 'Franz' not only tells the story of a literary giant but also represents Polish cinema in a prestigious competition.

Tonight, Mawaan Rizwan's quirky comedy 'Juice' returns for its second series on BBC Three, bringing back the beloved character Jamma, who continues to navigate life while jobless and couch-surfing. With Russell Tovey guest-starring, this show promises to deliver laughs and surreal moments that fans have come to love. It's a great opportunity for viewers to enjoy fresh comedic content that resonates with the challenges of modern life, making it a must-watch this evening.

The Helsinki International Film Festival, known as Love & Anarchy, is set to begin its 38th edition, marking a significant transition as long-time artistic director Pekka Lanerva steps down. Incoming executive director Pauliina Ståhlberg is ready to take the helm, emphasizing the festival's mission to promote positive change through cinema. This shift not only highlights the festival's commitment to innovation but also its role in fostering a community that champions good storytelling and social impact, making it an exciting time for film lovers and creators alike.

Warner Bros. has announced an exciting new partnership with Japan's Toho-Towa Group, which will take charge of distributing its films in theaters across Japan starting in 2026. This collaboration is significant as it marks a strategic move to enhance Warner's presence in the Japanese market, beginning with the release of Emerald Fennell's adaptation of 'Wuthering Heights.' Such agreements not only broaden the reach of Hollywood films but also enrich the cinematic landscape in Japan, promising a diverse array of entertainment for local audiences.

The former editor of British Vogue has raised concerns that the fashion industry is regressing on diversity, suggesting that the ideals of being 'super-thin' and predominantly European are becoming the standard once more. This is significant as it highlights a troubling trend that could undermine the progress made towards inclusivity in fashion, affecting representation and body image perceptions in society.

The new thriller 'Him,' produced by Jordan Peele, dives deep into the intense world of American football through the eyes of Cameron Cade, a college star determined to make it big. This film not only showcases the physical challenges of the sport but also highlights the psychological toll it can take on players. As Cade navigates the pressures of the Combine, audiences are reminded that the game can be far scarier than it appears, making it a must-watch for both sports fans and thriller enthusiasts alike.

This week, fans of 'Gossip Girl' were treated to a delightful reunion between Ed Westwick and Kelly Rutherford, reminding us of the show's lasting impact on pop culture. Alongside this nostalgic moment, a collection of can't-miss celebrity sightings has surfaced, showcasing the vibrant lives of stars as they enjoy their time out and about. These glimpses into the lives of beloved figures not only entertain but also connect fans to the glamour and excitement of celebrity culture.