The film 'Sorda,' from Murcia and directed by Eva Libertad, is a contender for Spain's representation in the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Oscars. It is currently in competition with Carla Simón's 'Romería' and Oliver Laxe's 'Sirat.' The final nomination will be announced on September 17, 2025.
'Sorda' tells the story of Ángela, a deaf woman who is expecting a child with her hearing partner, Héctor. The film explores the challenges of impending motherhood and communication within a society that is not fully accommodating to the hearing impaired. Starring Miriam Garlo, who is deaf herself, and Álvaro Cervantes, the film has been widely praised for its authentic and sensitive portrayal of deaf life. Garlo's performance brings a profound depth to her role, reflecting the film's commitment to genuine representation.
The production prioritized inclusivity, offering sign language classes to the entire crew and having interpreters present during filming to ensure an authentic environment. Since its theatrical release in April 2025, 'Sorda' has resonated with over 114,000 viewers across Spain and secured distribution deals in more than 50 countries.
The film has received critical acclaim and international accolades, including the Audience Award at the Berlinale Film Festival and the Golden Biznaga for Best Film at the Málaga Film Festival. Director Eva Libertad drew inspiration from her own experiences and interviews with deaf mothers to craft a narrative rich with emotional resonance. 'Sorda' is an expansion of Libertad's 2023 Goya-nominated short film of the same name, allowing for a deeper exploration of themes of communication, family bonds, and societal barriers faced by the deaf community.