Oliver Laxe's 'Sirât' Chosen to Represent Spain at the 98th Academy Awards

'Sirât', directed by Oliver Laxe, has been officially selected as Spain's representative for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. The announcement was made by the Spanish Film Academy on September 17, 2025. This prestigious selection marks a significant moment for Spanish cinema on the global stage.

'Sirât' previously garnered critical acclaim by winning the Jury Prize at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, highlighting its artistic and narrative depth. The film chronicles the emotional journey of a father and son as they traverse the Moroccan desert in search of their missing daughter, immersing themselves in the region's unique rave culture. This is the fourth film from Laxe, known for his poetic and intimate directorial style.

The film's success extends beyond Cannes, with Neon acquiring distribution rights for the United States, underscoring its critical and commercial appeal. 'Sirât' premiered in Spain on June 6, 2025, and has since received considerable critical and commercial praise. With strong international distribution and recognition, Spain holds optimism for 'Sirât's' performance in this esteemed category.

The Spanish Academy selected 'Sirât' from a shortlist of three finalists, which included Carla Simón's 'Romería' and Eva Libertad's 'Sorda'. This selection reflects the current depth of talent within Spanish cinema. The film has been lauded for its stunning cinematography and experimental musical score, which combine to create a deeply immersive audiovisual experience.

The Academy plans an intensive promotional campaign for 'Sirât' through December, aiming to capture the attention of Oscar voters. The film's journey to the Oscars not only celebrates Oliver Laxe's artistic achievements but also emphasizes Spanish cinema's capacity to produce globally relevant works capable of competing on the world stage.