Will PH finally get an Oscar nod in ‘Magellan’?

Movie fans are aware that “Magellan,” written and directed by Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz, has been selected as the Philippines' official entry for the 98th Academy Awards, which will take place on March 16, 2026.

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“Magellan” distinguished itself among acclaimed Filipino films, including “Green Bones,” “Sunshine,” “Food Delivery,” “Hello, Love, Again,” “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking,” and “Song of the Fireflies,” by being selected as an entry for the Oscars.

It is important to note that “Magellan” is not yet officially nominated for an Oscar; it is one of many international feature films aiming to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. There is still a significant journey ahead before it can achieve an official nomination.

Countries have until Oct. 1, 2025, to submit their entries for the Best International Feature Film category. A shortlist of 15 finalists is expected to be announced on. Dec. 16, 2025, with the final five nominees revealed on Jan. 22, 2026.

An international feature film is defined as a feature-length motion picture (over 40 minutes) produced outside the United States with predominantly non-English dialogue (more than 50 percent). This category can include both animated and documentary films, according to an article by British magazine ScreenDaily.