Film Commission Unveils Rules For Saudi Arabia's 2025 Oscars International Feature Film Submission

The Film Commission has outlined the official procedures for Saudi Arabia's entry into the 98th Academy Awards' International Feature Film category. These guidelines align with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' standards, detailing committee formation, film eligibility, and submission instructions. This initiative aims to bolster Saudi cinema's global presence and enhance its standing in the international film industry.

Filmmakers must ensure their submissions meet specific criteria to qualify for consideration. Films should be feature-length, exceeding 40 minutes, and primarily in a non-English language. Accurate English subtitles are mandatory. The film's first theatrical release in Saudi Arabia must occur between specified dates, with a commercial run of at least seven consecutive days.

To maintain fairness and transparency, a selection committee of independent film experts has been established. This committee follows the Academy's guidelines to review eligible films. Members engage in a structured voting process to choose the film representing Saudi Arabia at the Oscars.

Films must not have been publicly shown or distributed on platforms like broadcast, cable, streaming, or DVD before their qualifying theatrical release. Creative control should predominantly rest with Saudi citizens or residents, including those with recognized refugee or asylum status.

Filmmakers must submit several materials: a digital upload of the film for streaming, a secure link to the film, an English cast and credits list, director’s biography and photo, key frame artwork for streaming display, and proof of qualifying theatrical release and advertisements.

For more detailed information on rules and eligibility requirements, filmmakers can visit the academy’s official website. These comprehensive guidelines ensure that all submissions adhere to international standards while promoting Saudi cinema on a global stage.

This effort by the Film Commission is part of broader initiatives to elevate Saudi Arabia’s cultural footprint worldwide through cinema. By adhering to these guidelines, filmmakers can contribute significantly to showcasing Saudi talent at prestigious international forums like the Academy Awards.

With inputs from SPA