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Colombia Selects ‘A Poet’ for 2026 Oscar Consideration
Table of Contents
- 1. Colombia Selects ‘A Poet’ for 2026 Oscar Consideration
- 2. A Critical Acclaim for ‘A Poet’
- 3. The Narrative Unveiled
- 4. Director’s Statement and U.S. Distribution
- 5. Colombia’s Oscar History
- 6. The Growing Importance of International Film Submissions
- 7. Frequently Asked Questions About ‘A Poet’ and the Oscars
- 8. What impact could a director with a poetry background have on the visual storytelling and emotional depth of a film compared to a traditionally trained filmmaker?
- 9. Colombia Chooses Poet as director for 2026 International Feature Film Project
- 10. The Selection of a Unique Visionary
- 11. Why a Poet? Exploring the Rationale
- 12. Project Details & Early Insights
- 13. Colombia’s Track Record in International Film
- 14. The Impact on the Colombian Film Industry
- 15. Challenges and Opportunities
Bogotá, Colombia – On Tuesday, Colombia officially designated Simón Mesa soto’s film, A Poet, as the nation’s submission in the race for the 2026 Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category. The proclamation signals a renewed focus on showcasing Colombian storytelling on a global stage.
A Critical Acclaim for ‘A Poet’
A Poet premiered to widespread praise at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, securing the Jury Prize within the Un Certain Regard section. Later, the film resonated with audiences at the Toronto International Film Festival.It represents the second feature-length project directed by simón Mesa Soto, solidifying his position as a rising voice in contemporary cinema.
The Narrative Unveiled
The film stars Ubeimar Rio in his debut acting role as Oscar, a struggling writer grappling with unemployment and personal disillusionment in Medellín. The story follows Oscar’s journey as he navigates a period of self-doubt and finds an unexpected possibility for redemption through mentoring a young student.Alongside Rio, the cast includes Rebeca Andrade, Guillermo Cardona, Humberto restrepo, Alisson Correa, and Margarita Soto.
Director’s Statement and U.S. Distribution
Simón Mesa Soto expressed his elation regarding the film’s selection. “Since its release in Colombian theaters, A Poet has been beautifully received by audiences,” Soto stated. “Many Colombians have connected with our poet, and that’s what has excited us the most. Representing colombia on the path to the Oscars is a tremendous honor, and the start of a new chapter for Colombian film.” 1-2 Special has acquired the U.S. distribution rights to A Poet and is planning a theatrical release.
Colombia’s Oscar History
Colombia has previously attained recognition from the academy Awards, with a nomination for Ciro Guerra’s Embrace of the Serpent in 2015. Cristina Gallego and Ciro Guerra’s Birds of Passage was also a shortlist contender in 2018. The country is hoping that A Poet will continue this momentum and potentially secure a nomination.
the deadline for Oscar submissions is october 1. A shortlist of 15 films will be announced on December 16. The official nominations for the 98th Academy Awards are slated for release on January 22, 2026.
| Film | Year | Oscar Status |
|---|---|---|
| Embrace of the Serpent | 2015 | Nomination |
| Birds of Passage | 2018 | Shortlist |
| A Poet | 2026 | Submission |
Did you know? Colombia’s film industry has seen a surge in international recognition in recent years, with a growing number of Colombian productions gaining acceptance into prestigious film festivals worldwide.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on industry publications like screen Daily for up-to-date news and analysis on international film submissions and the Oscar race.
Will A Poet be able to break Colombia’s record and secure a nomination? What impact will this selection have on the future of Colombian cinema?
The Growing Importance of International Film Submissions
The Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category plays a vital role in promoting global cinema and cultural exchange. Each year, countries from around the world submit their most compelling films, offering audiences a glimpse into diverse perspectives and storytelling traditions. According to the Academy, the category has seen increased viewership in recent years, showcasing a growing thankfulness for international films.
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘A Poet’ and the Oscars
- What is ‘A Poet’ about? A Poet explores the life of a struggling writer in Medellín, Colombia, who finds a renewed sense of purpose through mentoring a young student.
- Who directed ‘A Poet’? Simón Mesa Soto directed the film, marking it as his second feature-length production.
- Has Colombia ever been nominated for an Oscar? Yes, Colombia received a nomination in 2015 for the film Embrace of the Serpent.
- What is the deadline for Oscar submissions? The deadline for submissions is October 1, with the shortlist announced on December 16.
- Where can I learn more about the Oscar nominations? You can find official details and updates on the Academy Awards website.
Share your thoughts on this exciting news! What are your predictions for the upcoming Oscar race? Leave a comment below.
What impact could a director with a poetry background have on the visual storytelling and emotional depth of a film compared to a traditionally trained filmmaker?
Colombia Chooses Poet as director for 2026 International Feature Film Project
The Selection of a Unique Visionary
Colombia’s selection committee has made a bold and intriguing choice for its 2026 International Feature Film project: a celebrated poet, whose name has not yet been publicly released, will helm the directorial duties. This marks a notable departure from the traditionally film-focused backgrounds of directors chosen for Oscar submissions, sparking considerable discussion within the Colombian film industry and internationally. The decision underscores a desire for fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling in Colombian cinema. This project aims to represent Colombia on the global stage, specifically targeting the academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category.
Why a Poet? Exploring the Rationale
The committee cited the poet’s profound understanding of narrative structure, evocative language, and ability to capture the essence of Colombian identity as key factors in their decision. They believe a poet’s sensibility will translate into a visually and emotionally resonant film.
Here’s a breakdown of the perceived benefits:
* Unique Storytelling: Poetry often prioritizes nuance and subtext, potentially leading to a more layered and thought-provoking cinematic experiance.
* Emphasis on Visuals: Poets are skilled at creating vivid imagery with words; this skill is expected to translate into strong visual storytelling.
* Cultural Depth: The chosen poet is deeply rooted in Colombian culture and history, promising an authentic representation of the nation.
* breaking Conventions: The move challenges conventional filmmaking norms, potentially attracting international attention and critical acclaim.
Project Details & Early Insights
While details remain scarce, sources indicate the film will explore themes of memory, displacement, and resilience within the context of Colombia’s complex history.The working title, currently circulating within industry circles, is “Las Raíces Olvidadas” (The Forgotten Roots).
* Genre: The project is described as a dramatic narrative with elements of magical realism, a common thread in Latin American literature and cinema.
* Location Scouting: filming is slated to take place primarily in the Andean region of Colombia, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
* Casting: the director is prioritizing casting emerging talent alongside established Colombian actors. Open casting calls are planned for several key roles.
* Production Timeline: Pre-production is underway, with principal photography expected to begin in early 2026. The target release date is late 2026, aligning with the submission window for the 98th Academy Awards.
Colombia’s Track Record in International Film
Colombia has been steadily gaining recognition on the international film scene. films like Embrace of the Serpent (2015) and birds of Passage (2018) have garnered critical acclaim and Oscar nominations, demonstrating the country’s cinematic potential. This new project builds on that momentum, aiming to further elevate Colombian filmmaking on the world stage.
Key Colombian Films & Recognition:
- Embrace of the Serpent (2015) – academy Award Nomination (Best Foreign Language Film)
- Birds of Passage (2018) – Significant international festival presence and critical acclaim.
- Monos (2019) – Cannes Film Festival selection, showcasing Colombian talent.
The Impact on the Colombian Film Industry
This unconventional directorial choice is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the colombian film industry. It could encourage greater experimentation and collaboration between artists from different disciplines. The project is also generating excitement among aspiring filmmakers and writers, demonstrating that a diverse range of backgrounds can contribute to triumphant cinematic storytelling. Funding for the project is a combination of goverment grants, private investment, and international co-production agreements.
Challenges and Opportunities
The director’s lack of formal film training presents both challenges and opportunities. A seasoned cinematographer and experienced production team will be crucial to supporting the director’s vision and navigating the technical aspects of filmmaking.However, the poet’s unique perspective could also lead to a truly groundbreaking and unforgettable film. The success of this project will depend on a collaborative spirit and a willingness to embrace innovation.
