Phl entries 'Magellan,” ‘Food Delivery,” ‘Vox Humana' miss Oscars 2026 shortlists

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced yesterday the official shortlists in 12 categories for the 98th Academy Awards.

- By PATRICIA DELA ROCA

Unfortunately, none of the Philippines' submissions advanced to the next round.Lav Diaz's historical epic "Magellan" failed to make the shortlist for Best International Feature Film, where 86 films from various countries and regions were eligible this year.

Set in the 16th century, "Magellan" follows Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan, who defies his king after his ambitions to explore the world are rejected. Turning to the Spanish Crown, he secures support for a daring voyage to the East.

The 15 titles that advanced, listed alphabetically by country, are: "Belén" (Argentina), "The Secret Agent" (Brazil), "It Was Just an Accident" (France), "Sound of Falling" (Germany), "Homebound" (India), "The President's Cake" (Iraq), "Kokuho (Toho)" (Japan), "All That's Left of You" (Jordan), "Sentimental Value" (Norway), "Palestine 36" (Palestine), "No Other Choice" (South Korea), "Sirât" (Spain), "Late Shift" (Switzerland), "Left-Handed Girl" (Taiwan), and "The Voice of Hind Rajab" (Tunisia).

Two other Philippine entries were also eliminated. Baby Ruth Villarama’s “Food Delivery” failed to enter the shortlist for Best Documentary Feature Film, while Don Eblahan’s “Vox Humana” missed out in the Best Live Action Short Film category.