Oscars 2023: Best International Film Predictions & Winners

The Oscars 2023 ceremony was a night of glitz, glamour, and of course, the celebration of cinematic excellence. Among the many prestigious awards handed out, the Best International Feature Film is always a category that piques global interest. This category shines a spotlight on incredible storytelling from around the world, giving filmmakers a platform to share their unique cultural perspectives and narratives with a global audience. In this article, we'll delve into the nominees, the predictions leading up to the event, and the ultimate winner of the coveted award. So, buckle up, film enthusiasts, as we journey through the captivating world of international cinema!

The Nominees: A Showcase of Global Storytelling

The nominees for the Best International Feature Film at the Oscars 2023 represented a diverse array of countries and filmmaking styles. Each film offered a distinct glimpse into different cultures, social issues, and human experiences. Here’s a closer look at the films that were in contention:

• Argentina, 1985: From Argentina, this historical drama, directed by Santiago Mitre, captivated audiences with its gripping portrayal of the prosecution of the leaders of Argentina's last civil-military dictatorship. The film masterfully recreates the tense atmosphere of the time and highlights the courage of the lawyers who fought for justice against overwhelming odds. Argentina, 1985 stood out for its powerful performances and its relevance to contemporary discussions about human rights and accountability. The film was praised for its meticulous attention to historical detail and its ability to resonate with audiences on an emotional level.
• Close: Representing Belgium, Close, directed by Lukas Dhont, is a poignant and sensitive exploration of friendship, masculinity, and grief. The film follows the lives of two young boys whose close bond is tested as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. Close is notable for its intimate and empathetic approach to its subject matter, and its ability to capture the nuances of childhood emotions. Dhont's direction is both subtle and powerful, allowing the audience to deeply connect with the characters and their experiences. The film's delicate storytelling and stunning visuals made it a strong contender in this category.
• EO: Poland's entry, EO, directed by Jerzy Skolimowski, offers a unique and visually stunning perspective on the world through the eyes of a donkey. The film follows EO as he travels across Europe, encountering various people and experiencing both kindness and cruelty. EO is a philosophical and visually arresting work that challenges viewers to consider their relationship with animals and the environment. Skolimowski's innovative filmmaking techniques and the film's powerful message made it a standout among the nominees. EO is a testament to the power of cinema to transcend language and cultural barriers.
• Corsage: From Austria, Corsage, directed by Marie Kreutzer, presents a fresh and unconventional take on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The film reimagines the Empress as a rebellious and complex figure who chafes against the constraints of her royal role. Corsage is notable for its bold and irreverent approach to historical drama, and its exploration of themes such as female agency and the burden of expectations. Kreutzer's direction is both stylish and thought-provoking, and the film's performances are captivating. Corsage offered a modern lens through which to view a historical figure, sparking conversation and debate.
• The Quiet Girl: Ireland's entry, The Quiet Girl (An Cailín Ciúin), directed by Colm Bairéad, is a delicate and moving coming-of-age story set in rural Ireland. The film follows a young girl who is sent to live with relatives for the summer and discovers a new sense of belonging. The Quiet Girl is praised for its understated beauty, its authentic portrayal of Irish culture, and its powerful emotional impact. Bairéad's direction is sensitive and nuanced, and the film's performances are both natural and affecting. The Quiet Girl resonated with audiences for its universal themes of family, identity, and the search for connection.

Predictions Before the Big Night

Before the Oscars 2023 ceremony, film critics and industry experts were buzzing with predictions for the Best International Feature Film category. While all the nominees were deserving of recognition, some films were generating more buzz than others. Argentina, 1985 emerged as a frontrunner, thanks to its compelling narrative, strong performances, and its relevance to contemporary political discussions. Close also garnered significant attention for its sensitive portrayal of friendship and grief. EO's unique perspective and stunning visuals made it a dark horse contender, while Corsage's unconventional approach to historical drama sparked considerable interest. The Quiet Girl, with its heartwarming story and beautiful cinematography, was also considered a strong contender.

Many experts weighed in, citing various factors such as critical acclaim, audience reception, and the film's overall impact. Some argued that Argentina, 1985's political relevance would give it an edge, while others believed that Close's emotional resonance would resonate with the Academy voters. The predictions were varied and passionate, reflecting the high quality and diverse nature of the nominated films. The anticipation was palpable as the film community eagerly awaited the announcement of the winner.

And the Winner Is...

The moment everyone had been waiting for finally arrived at the Oscars 2023 ceremony. The envelope was opened, and the winner of the Best International Feature Film was announced: Argentina, 1985! The film's win was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers, recognizing its powerful storytelling, historical significance, and its universal themes of justice and accountability. Director Santiago Mitre and the film's cast and crew took to the stage to accept the award, expressing their gratitude and dedicating the win to the people of Argentina and to all those who fight for justice around the world.

Argentina, 1985's victory was not only a triumph for Argentine cinema but also a testament to the power of film to shed light on important historical events and to inspire dialogue and reflection. The film's success on the international stage underscores the importance of supporting and celebrating diverse voices and perspectives in filmmaking. The win served as a reminder that cinema can be a powerful tool for promoting understanding, empathy, and social change.

The Significance of the Win

The victory of Argentina, 1985 at the Oscars 2023 holds significant weight for several reasons. Firstly, it brings much-deserved attention to a crucial period in Argentine history, raising awareness about the atrocities committed during the country's dictatorship and the courageous efforts of those who fought for justice. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of holding perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable and of preserving the memory of past injustices to prevent them from happening again.

Secondly, the win highlights the growing strength and creativity of Latin American cinema. Argentina, 1985's success follows in the footsteps of other acclaimed films from the region, showcasing the talent and storytelling prowess of Latin American filmmakers. It inspires aspiring filmmakers in the region and encourages greater investment in Latin American film productions. The film's win is a victory for the entire Latin American film community.

Finally, Argentina, 1985's Oscar win underscores the importance of supporting films that tackle complex and challenging social and political issues. The film's success demonstrates that audiences are eager to engage with stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. It encourages filmmakers to take risks and to create films that push boundaries and challenge conventional narratives. The film's win is a testament to the power of cinema to make a difference in the world.

Final Thoughts

The Oscars 2023 Best International Feature Film category was a celebration of cinematic diversity and storytelling excellence. While Argentina, 1985 ultimately took home the coveted award, all the nominated films were deserving of recognition for their unique perspectives and powerful narratives. The category serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and celebrating films from around the world, and of recognizing the power of cinema to promote understanding, empathy, and social change. As we look forward to future Oscars ceremonies, let us continue to embrace and celebrate the rich tapestry of international cinema.