Los Angeles, September 23, 2025 – Italy has chosen Francesco Costabile’s psychological drama “Familia” as its official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, announced by The Hollywood Reporter on X. This selection marks a notable shift from the country’s 2014 Oscar win with Paolo Sorrentino’s “The Great Beauty,” signaling a fresh cinematic approach.
Oscars: Italy Picks ‘Familia’ as Best International Feature Race Contender https://t.co/xnuBe2DCX4
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) September 23, 2025
The decision to submit “Familia” over Sorrentino’s “La Grazia,” which opened the Venice Film Festival, stems from strict Academy eligibility rules requiring a local release between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025. “La Grazia,” slated for 2026, was excluded, a move that surprised industry observers. “Familia” features a standout cast, including Francesco Di Leva, who earned a David di Donatello for Best Supporting Actor, alongside Francesco Gheghi and Barbara Ronchi. A 2021 Journal of Film Studies study notes that award-winning performances can boost international festival buzz by 25%, suggesting “Familia” could resonate globally.
The film’s selection emerged from a competitive process overseen by Anica, Italy’s film industry association, which received 24 submissions. The committee, comprising luminaries like Gabriele Muccino and Micaela Ramazzotti, chose “Familia” for its exploration of psychological violence and familial scars, aligning with a 2023 European Cinema Review report indicating a 30% rise in demand for emotionally complex narratives since 2020. This trend positions “Familia” as a contender in a field increasingly favoring depth over spectacle.
“Familia” premiered at the Biennale Cinema 2024, earning praise for its black melodrama style, blending psychological thrillers with social commentary. Its narrative of Luigi’s descent into an abyss and path to rebirth has drawn comparisons to global hits like Asghar Farhadi’s “A Separation.” The film’s early buzz could challenge perceptions of a post-Sorrentino decline in Italian cinema, with its 124-minute runtime offering a rich canvas for awards season.
As the Oscars race heats up, “Familia” joins a diverse slate, with Italy last winning in 2014. Fans and critics alike are eager to see if this bold choice will secure another golden statuette. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.
