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Swiss Oscar Pick: Gaza Refugees' Story Heads to Academy
13 Aug
Summary
- Switzerland selected 'Who is Still Alive' for Oscar race.
- Documentary recreates Palestinian refugee escape on stage.
- Film premiered at Venice Days and plans US release.
Switzerland has selected Nicolas Wadimoff's documentary, 'Who is Still Alive,' to represent the country in the 2027 Oscar race for best international feature. The film offers a unique portrayal of nine Palestinian refugees who reconstruct their harrowing escape from Gaza.
Wadimoff's experimental approach uses a stark stage, marked by chalk outlines, to echo the experiences of survival, reminiscent of Lars von Trier's 'Dogville.' The documentary had its debut in the Venice Days selection at the Venice Film Festival in the previous year.
'Who is Still Alive' is scheduled for a U.S. release later this year, distributed by Watermelon Pictures. First Hand Films is managing its international sales. The film was produced by Akka Films from Geneva, in collaboration with Easy Rider Films, Philistine Films, Cocoon Films, and Swiss broadcaster RTS.
The Academy will announce the 15-film shortlist for the Best International Feature Film on December 15. The five nominees will be revealed on January 21, 2027, preceding the 99th Academy Awards ceremony on March 14, 2027.
