Oscars 2022: Best International Film Nominees
Hey movie buffs! Let's dive into the glitz, the glamour, and the absolute best in international cinema from the 2022 Oscars. Choosing the best international film is always a tough gig for the Academy, considering the sheer volume of incredible movies coming out of every corner of the globe. But boy, oh boy, did they bring us some stunners for the 94th Academy Awards! We're talking about films that not only tell powerful stories but also showcase diverse cultures, breathtaking cinematography, and acting performances that will stay with you long after the credits roll. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's explore the magic of the Oscars 2022 Best International Film contenders. This category is a real testament to the universal language of film, proving that great storytelling knows no borders. It's a chance for us to discover hidden gems and celebrate filmmakers from around the world who are pushing the boundaries of what cinema can be. The nominations themselves are a curated selection, a real highlight reel of cinematic excellence from the past year, and each film on that list had to overcome immense competition to even get a sniff at an Oscar nomination. Think about the journey these films take – from festival circuits, critical acclaim, to finally landing on the Academy's radar. It's a big deal, guys, and it gives us cinephiles a fantastic opportunity to broaden our horizons and appreciate the incredible talent out there. So, who made the cut for the 2022 race? Let's find out!
The Nominees for Best International Feature Film at the 2022 Oscars
The 2022 Oscars Best International Film race was stacked, and honestly, any of these films could have taken home the gold statue. It's always exciting to see which countries put forward their best cinematic efforts, and this year was no exception. The Academy members, who are themselves filmmakers and artists, have the tough job of selecting just five films out of a longlist that represents the best of what the world has to offer. This category, originally known as Best Foreign Language Film, was rebranded to Best International Feature Film to be more inclusive and better reflect the global nature of filmmaking. It’s a change that’s been welcomed by many, as it removes any potential linguistic bias and focuses purely on the artistic merit and storytelling prowess of the film. The nominees represent a fantastic cross-section of global cinema, offering diverse perspectives and tackling a wide array of themes. From poignant dramas to thought-provoking narratives, these films resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level, transcending cultural differences. The competition was fierce, and each nominated film brought something unique to the table, making the deliberation process for the Academy voters incredibly challenging. It’s a true celebration of cinematic artistry from around the globe, and we get to enjoy the fruits of that labor by watching these incredible movies. Let's give a huge round of applause to the countries and filmmakers who graced us with their talent for the 2022 Oscars Best International Film nominations. Each one of these films has a story to tell, and they tell it with passion, skill, and artistry that is truly commendable. It's more than just a competition; it's a showcase of the power of cinema to connect us all.
Drive My Car (Japan)
When we talk about the 2022 Oscars Best International Film contenders, Drive My Car from Japan is a film that simply demands your attention. Directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, this movie is an absolute masterpiece that swept through the awards season and rightfully earned its place among the nominees. Based on a Haruki Murakami short story, it’s a deeply introspective and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of grief, loss, art, and connection. The story follows Yūsuke Kafuku, a theater director who is still grappling with the death of his wife. Two years later, he accepts a residency in Hiroshima to direct a multilingual production of Chekhov's "Uncle Vanya." It's there that he meets Misaki Watari, a stoic young woman assigned to be his chauffeur. As they spend more time together on long, quiet drives, a profound and unexpected bond begins to form between them. The film is incredibly patient, allowing its themes and characters to unfold organically. The dialogue is sharp and insightful, and the performances are subtle yet incredibly powerful. The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the Japanese landscape with a quiet grace that mirrors the film's contemplative tone. What makes Drive My Car so special is its ability to delve into the complexities of human relationships and the lingering impact of trauma without resorting to melodrama. It’s a film that trusts its audience to engage with its nuanced portrayal of grief and the slow, arduous process of healing. The runtime might be a bit daunting for some – it clocks in at just under three hours – but trust me, guys, it’s three hours you won't regret spending. Each scene is meticulously crafted, and the narrative weaves together personal struggles with artistic expression in a way that feels both intimate and universal. This film isn't just about sadness; it's about finding meaning and connection in the aftermath of profound loss. It's a testament to the power of art to help us process our emotions and understand ourselves and others better. For anyone interested in the 2022 Oscars Best International Film, Drive My Car is an absolute must-watch, a truly outstanding piece of cinema that deserves all the accolades it received.
Flee (Denmark)
Next up in our exploration of the 2022 Oscars Best International Film nominees, we have Flee from Denmark. Now, this one is unique, guys, because it's an animated documentary! How cool is that? Directed by Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Flee tells the harrowing true story of Amin Nawabi (a pseudonym), a man who is about to marry his childhood sweetheart. However, before he can fully commit, he decides to reveal a long-held secret to his fiancé: his past as a child refugee from Afghanistan. The film beautifully and bravely recounts Amin's journey from his escape from Kabul as a child, through his time in various refugee camps, to his eventual arrival and settlement in Denmark. What makes Flee so incredibly impactful is its animated style. It allows Amin to share his story with a level of emotional honesty and visual dynamism that might have been difficult to achieve with live-action. The animation is not just a stylistic choice; it's integral to the storytelling, creating a safe space for Amin to revisit traumatic memories while also protecting his anonymity. The film tackles incredibly sensitive and difficult themes – forced displacement, the trauma of war, identity, sexuality, and the search for belonging – with remarkable grace and sensitivity. You feel Amin's fear, his hope, and his profound sense of loss as he recounts his experiences. It's a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the lasting impact of the refugee experience. The documentary format, combined with animation, offers a fresh and compelling way to engage with a story that is all too relevant in today's world. It’s a film that educates, empathizes, and ultimately, inspires. For anyone looking to understand the complexities of the refugee crisis through a deeply personal and moving narrative, Flee is an essential watch and a standout among the 2022 Oscars Best International Film nominees. It proves that animated films can tackle the most serious subjects with maturity and profound emotional depth.
The Hand of God (Italy)
Let's talk about Italy's contender for the 2022 Oscars Best International Film: The Hand of God (Italian: È stata la mano di Dio). This is director Paolo Sorrentino's deeply personal and semi-autobiographical film, and boy, does it show. Set in Naples in the 1980s, the movie tells the story of Fabietto Schisa, a young boy whose life is turned upside down by two major events: the unexpected arrival of football legend Diego Maradona and a devastating personal tragedy. Sorrentino masterfully blends moments of vibrant Neapolitan life, humor, and youthful exuberance with profound sorrow and loss. The film is visually stunning, as you'd expect from Sorrentino, who is known for his distinctive directorial style, reminiscent of Fellini. The cinematography captures the chaotic beauty of Naples, its crowded streets, its passionate people, and its breathtaking scenery. Fabietto's journey is one of self-discovery, navigating adolescence, family dynamics, and the burgeoning realization of his own artistic ambitions, particularly his desire to become a filmmaker. The narrative is punctuated by both joyful and heartbreaking moments, often in quick succession, reflecting the unpredictable nature of life itself. The presence of Maradona serves as a potent symbol of hope and escape for the city and for Fabietto, while the tragedy forces him to confront the harsh realities of the adult world. The Hand of God is a coming-of-age story at its core, but it’s also a love letter to Naples and a raw exploration of grief and resilience. It's a film that feels incredibly intimate, as if Sorrentino is sharing his own memories and vulnerabilities with the audience. The performances are fantastic, especially from the young lead, Filippo Scotti, who perfectly embodies Fabietto's innocence and burgeoning awareness. If you're interested in the 2022 Oscars Best International Film category, this Italian gem offers a rich tapestry of life, love, and loss, delivered with Sorrentino's signature flair and emotional depth. It's a powerful reminder of how significant events, both personal and cultural, shape our lives and our art.
Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom (Bhutan)
Moving on to a film that offers a completely different vibe, we have Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom from Bhutan, a truly heartwarming entry in the 2022 Oscars Best International Film race. Directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji, this film is a gentle, charming, and visually stunning exploration of finding purpose and happiness in the most unexpected places. The story follows Ugyen, a young teacher who is disillusioned with his job and dreams of leaving his remote village in Bhutan to pursue a career as a singer in Australia. Facing a lack of proper teaching facilities, his elders assign him to the most remote school he’s ever heard of – a classroom in Lunana, the most isolated community in Bhutan, located high in the Himalayas, with no electricity or modern amenities. Initially dreading his posting, Ugyen arrives to find a small schoolhouse with no desks, no books, and only seven children, whose only companion is a yak. As he spends time in this remote, serene, and profoundly simple community, Ugyen’s perspective begins to shift. The children's eagerness to learn, the warmth and generosity of the villagers, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayas all start to chip away at his cynicism. The film is a beautiful reminder of the importance of human connection, the value of education, and the richness that can be found in a life lived simply, far from the distractions of the modern world. The cinematography is absolutely gorgeous, capturing the majestic, awe-inspiring landscapes of Bhutan in a way that makes you feel like you're right there with Ugyen. The performances are natural and heartfelt, especially from the young actors playing the students. Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom is a feel-good movie that doesn't shy away from showing the challenges of remote living but ultimately celebrates the joy and fulfillment that can be found in community and purpose. For anyone curious about the 2022 Oscars Best International Film nominees, this Bhutanese film is a delightful and inspiring watch that will warm your heart and leave you with a smile.
The Worst Person in the World (Norway)
Finally, let's round off our look at the 2022 Oscars Best International Film nominees with The Worst Person in the World (Norwegian: Verdens verste menneske) from Norway. Directed by Joachim Trier, this film is an absolute gem, a witty, modern, and deeply relatable romantic comedy-drama that follows the life of Julie over a period of eight years as she navigates her twenties and early thirties. It’s a story about love, career choices, existential angst, and the messy, unpredictable journey of trying to figure out who you are and what you want from life. Julie, brilliantly portrayed by Renate Reinsve, is a woman who feels perpetually stuck, constantly questioning her decisions and feeling like she’s falling behind her peers. The film is structured into twelve chapters, plus a prologue and an epilogue, which gives it a unique narrative flow that feels both classic and contemporary. Trier’s direction is sharp and insightful, capturing the urban landscape of Oslo and the inner turmoil of his protagonist with equal skill. What makes this film so special is its honest and often humorous portrayal of modern relationships and the anxieties of young adulthood. Julie’s quest for self-discovery is something many viewers can connect with on a profound level. She’s not a perfect character, and that’s precisely what makes her so compelling. The film explores her relationships with two very different men – Aksel, an older, successful artist, and Eivind, a charming but less settled guy – as she grapples with her own identity and aspirations. The dialogue is witty, the pacing is excellent, and the film is filled with memorable moments that are both funny and poignant. For anyone looking for a film that understands the complexities of love, career, and personal growth in the 21st century, The Worst Person in the World is a must-see. It was a strong contender for the 2022 Oscars Best International Film award because it perfectly captures the zeitgeist of contemporary life, offering a fresh and authentic perspective on the universal search for meaning and happiness. It’s a film that feels incredibly alive and true to its characters.
And the Oscar Goes To...
The tension was palpable as the Academy prepared to announce the winner of the 2022 Oscars Best International Film award. All five nominated films were incredibly strong, each offering a unique and powerful cinematic experience. The winner of the Best International Feature Film Oscar at the 94th Academy Awards was Drive My Car from Japan! This marked a historic win for Japan, as it was the first time a Japanese film had ever won in this category. Director Ryusuke Hamaguchi and his team were celebrated for their masterful storytelling, profound emotional depth, and exceptional artistry. The win for Drive My Car was a testament to its critical acclaim and its ability to deeply connect with audiences and Academy voters alike. It was a moment of triumph for international cinema, highlighting the power of diverse voices and stories on the global stage. Congratulations to Japan and everyone involved in making Drive My Car such an unforgettable film! It truly deserved this recognition among the best of the best for the 2022 Oscars.
