As the 2024 Oscar nominations draw near, two Indian films are still in contention for the Best Picture category. Out of 321 feature films from around the world that qualified for the upcoming Oscars, 265 are eligible to be nominated for Best Picture. Among these, two Indian films have made the cut: Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s heartrending drama “12th Fail” and the intense survival drama “2018.”
While these films did not qualify for the International Feature Film category, they are vying for recognition in the prestigious Best Picture category. Critics have expressed skepticism about their chances, citing the formidable competition from acclaimed films such as “Oppenheimer,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and “Anatomy of a Fall,” which have made a significant impact at the awards circuit over the past year.
To secure a spot among the final list of nominees, a film not only needs to be of high quality but also requires effective campaigning. Stakeholders must engage in thorough marketing and create a buzz among the intended audience, particularly the Oscar jury, months before the nominations are announced. While “12th Fail” and “2018” have been lauded for their individual merits, they have not generated the same level of buzz and recognition at the awards circuit as some of their competitors.
The road to an Oscar nomination is undoubtedly challenging, and the final outcome remains to be seen. However, the inclusion of these Indian films in the list of contenders is a testament to their artistic merit and the growing global recognition of Indian cinema.
Last year, SS Rajamouli’s “RRR” made waves and collected awards at various international film festivals. The film’s hit song “Naatu Naatu” eventually created history at the Oscars 2023 as it earned the Best Original Song award, making it the first song of an Indian film to earn such an accolade.
While no Indian film was named in the recently announced 2024 Oscars Shortlist for the International Feature Film category, the inclusion of “12th Fail” and “2018” in the Best Picture category is a significant achievement for Indian cinema. These films have garnered critical acclaim and recognition for their unique storytelling and cinematic excellence.
The Oscars have long been considered the ultimate recognition of cinematic achievement, and a nomination or win can significantly boost a film’s profile and success. The inclusion of these Indian films in the list of contenders is a testament to the growing global recognition of Indian cinema and its ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
As the world eagerly awaits the announcement of the final nominees, the Indian film industry can take pride in the recognition of these two outstanding films and the growing impact of Indian cinema on the global stage.
