Italy Chooses Francesco Costabile’s Dark Melodrama ‘Familia’ as Its Oscar Candidate

Italy has proudly chosen Francesco Costabile's film 'Familia' as its contender for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. This biographical drama, co-written by Costabile and others, delves into the life of Luigi Celeste, exploring themes of youth, far-right militancy, and domestic violence. This selection not only highlights Italy's rich cinematic tradition but also brings attention to important social issues, making it a significant entry in this year's Oscars.

Lucrecia Martel's documentary 'Nuestra Tierra' recently captivated audiences at the Camden International Film Festival after its world premiere in Venice. This powerful film delves into the tragic story of a murdered Indigenous leader in Argentina, raising critical questions about societal inclusion and representation. By highlighting these pressing issues, Martel not only tells a compelling story but also sparks important conversations about who gets to be part of the narrative in society.

The documentary 'Riefenstahl' premiered at the 2024 Venice Film Festival, exploring the controversial life of filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl and her connections to the Nazi regime. Director Andres Veiel delves into previously unseen documents from Riefenstahl's estate, including films, photos, and letters, to question her awareness of the atrocities committed during Hitler's rule. This film is significant as it not only sheds light on Riefenstahl's legacy but also serves as a reminder of the moral complexities surrounding art and complicity in historical events.

Jesse Williams is making a significant return to television with his lead role in the new Prime Video Italy original series 'Hotel Costiera.' After a successful 12-season run on 'Grey's Anatomy,' where he portrayed Dr. Jackson Avery, Williams is excited to explore a new international landscape. He even took on the challenge of learning Italian for this role, describing it as a 'labor of love.' This transition not only showcases his versatility as an actor but also highlights the growing trend of American actors embracing international projects, which can enrich their careers and broaden their audiences.

The second trailer for 'After the Hunt,' starring Julia Roberts and Ayo Edebiri, has just been released by Amazon MGM Studios. This intriguing thriller, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival and will be featured at the New York Film Festival this week. The film promises to deliver a captivating narrative as it explores complex themes, making it a highly anticipated release for audiences this October.

Cambodia's production company Anti-Archive has made waves at the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market by unveiling an exciting slate of local and international co-productions for 2025/26. This showcases the country's growing cinematic talent and ambition, especially following the success of their recent film 'Becoming Human,' directed by Polen Ly, which premiered at the prestigious Venice Film Festival. This development is significant as it highlights Cambodia's evolving film industry and its potential to gain international recognition.

Emirati director Majid Al Ansari returns to Fantastic Fest with his new polygamy-themed horror film 'The Vile,' marking a significant moment in Arab cinema. Al Ansari, who gained recognition with his earlier work 'Zinzana,' is excited to showcase a story that resonates with cultural themes he grew up with. This film not only highlights the evolving landscape of Arab filmmaking but also emphasizes the importance of diverse narratives in the horror genre, making it a noteworthy addition to the festival.

Sabrina Carpenter recently opened up about her experiences with men who have attacked and ridiculed her, highlighting the challenges she has faced in her career. Despite these negative encounters, she emphasizes the importance of resilience and empowerment, showing that she has learned to navigate these situations with grace. This conversation matters as it sheds light on the broader issue of how women are often treated in the industry, encouraging others to stand strong against adversity.

A$AP Rocky and Rihanna have been in a loving relationship for six years, and recent comments from A$AP have sparked speculation about whether they might have secretly tied the knot. While he remains playful and coy about the topic, this intrigue adds to the excitement surrounding their relationship, especially as fans eagerly await any official news. Their bond continues to capture public interest, making them one of the most talked-about couples in the entertainment world.

Nexstar Media has decided to continue its boycott of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' despite Disney's plan to resume airing new episodes. This decision follows comments made by host Jimmy Kimmel that were deemed 'ill-timed and insensitive' by Nexstar. The move highlights ongoing tensions in the television industry regarding content and host behavior, raising questions about the future of programming decisions and viewer engagement.

Nexstar has announced that it will continue to preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live, which means that the late-night host's return to ABC tonight will not be available to nearly a quarter of the network's affiliate audience. This decision raises concerns about the accessibility of popular programming and the impact on viewers who rely on local affiliates for their late-night entertainment.

Ari Fletcher shared a heartfelt message on social media to celebrate Moneybagg Yo's birthday, expressing her deep affection and commitment to him with the touching phrase, 'I’d choose you… for better or for worse.' This post highlights their strong bond and showcases the importance of love and support in relationships, resonating with fans who appreciate their connection.