Francesco Costabile's film "Familia" has been chosen to represent Italy in the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards.
"Familia" delves into the complex dynamics of a family grappling with the return of Franco Celeste, played by Francesco Di Leva, after a decade-long absence. The narrative is deeply textured by the lingering impact of past traumas experienced by Franco's wife, Licia, portrayed by Barbara Ronchi. Francesco Gheghi, who embodies the role of Luigi Celeste, received the Orizzonti Award for Best Actor at the 2024 Venice Film Festival for his performance. Gheghi also garnered a David di Donatello nomination for Best Actor.
Italy has a history of success at the Oscars in this category, with Matteo Garrone's "Io capitano" being the nation's most recent nominee in 2024. Paolo Sorrentino's "La grande bellezza" won the award in 2014. "Familia" is scheduled for release in Italian cinemas on October 2, 2025.