Mongolian Drama "Silent City Driver" Nominated for Academy Award

The Mongolian film "Silent City Driver" has been chosen to represent the country in the best international feature film category at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. The decision was made by Mongolia's National Selection Committee.

Directed by Janchivdorj Sengedorj, "Silent City Driver" follows the story of Myagmar, played by A. Tuvshinbayar, a man who is released from prison after 14 years and returns to a world that has drastically changed. Alienated, struggling with kidney failure, and unable to reconnect with his surroundings, Myagmar finds solace in sheltering stray dogs and working as a hearse driver. There, he crosses paths with a blind coffin maker, his daughter Saruul, and a Buddhist monk, through whom he tentatively seeks redemption. However, the story takes a darker turn as Saruul becomes a victim of blackmail, and Myagmar is forced to confront the limits of forgiveness, leading to a devastating choice.

The film has gained momentum on the international festival circuit, winning the Grand Prix for best film and best production design at the 2024 Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, as well as the Purple Mulberry award at the 2025 Udine Far East Film Festival in Italy. Sengedorj's previous film, "The Sales Girl," also received recognition, winning the audience award at Udine and the best film award at the Vesoul Asian Film Festival.

Mongolia has been submitting films to the Oscars since 2003, but has yet to receive a nomination. The country's 2023 entry, "City of Wind," premiered at the Venice Film Festival but did not make the shortlist. Last year's submission, "If Only I Could Hibernate," debuted at the Cannes Film Festival and also failed to advance to the Oscar shortlist.