Academy Announces Shortlist for International Feature Film
The Palestinian film From Ground Zero has been shortlisted for the International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed on Tuesday. This marks a significant milestone for Palestinian cinema, as the film is now in the running for a potential Oscar nomination.
About From Ground Zero
From Ground Zero is an anthology film directed by 22 different Palestinian filmmakers, featuring a mix of documentaries, animation, fiction, and experimental works. The film sheds light on the lives of people in Gaza, focusing on the human toll of Israel’s escalated aggression since October 7, 2024. Premiering at the 5th Amman International Film Festival in July, it also had its North American premiere at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival in September.
According to author Narendra Pachkhédé, the film “offers an urgent, intimate glimpse into the human toll of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” providing a deeply personal narrative of survival, loss, and resilience. Each frame captures raw emotion, far surpassing the typical news coverage of the ongoing crisis.
Other Films and Nominations
In other Oscar news, the blockbuster musical Wicked, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, secured nominations in four categories, including makeup and hairstyling, sound, visual effects, and original score. Additionally, the documentary The Bibi Files, which features leaked footage from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trials, is also vying for Best Documentary Feature Film.
However, Pakistan’s official entry for the International Feature Film category, The Glassworker, directed by Usman Riaz, did not make the shortlist.
Oscar Ceremony Details
The final Oscar nominations will be announced on January 1, 2025, with the award ceremony scheduled to air live on ABC from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 2, 2025. The event will be hosted by Emmy-winning comedian Conan O’Brien.
