Belgium Selects Lukas Dhont’s ‘Coward’ For Oscars

Belgium has officially selected Lukas Dhont’s latest feature film, ‘Coward,’ to represent the country in the Best International Feature Film category at the upcoming 99th Academy Awards. The announcement marks a significant step for the film as it enters the competitive race for one of cinema's most prestigious international accolades. Directed by Dhont, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Angelo Tijssens, ‘Coward’ is a historical drama set against the backdrop of the First World War. The narrative centers on Pierre, a soldier who has recently arrived at the front lines, exploring his experiences and the profound impact of warfare.

This selection positions ‘Coward’ to compete against submissions from numerous other countries, each vying for a nomination in the highly competitive Best International Feature Film category. The Academy Awards, often referred to as the Oscars, are a globally recognized event celebrating cinematic excellence across various genres and filmmaking disciplines. The Best International Feature Film award specifically honors full-length feature films produced outside of the United States with predominantly non-English dialogue. The selection process for each country’s submission is typically managed by a national committee or film academy, which then forwards their chosen film to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for consideration.

Lukas Dhont is an acclaimed Belgian filmmaker whose previous work has garnered international attention. His 2018 debut feature, ‘Girl,’ earned him the Caméra d'Or – Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival and the Queer Lion award at the Venice Film Festival, signaling his emergence as a significant directorial talent. ‘Girl’ also received critical praise for its sensitive and powerful portrayal of a transgender teenage ballerina. With ‘Coward,’ Dhont returns to themes of identity, struggle, and the human condition, this time within the brutal context of World War I. The film’s narrative is expected to delve into the psychological and emotional toll of conflict on individuals.

The screenplay for ‘Coward’ was developed by Dhont and Angelo Tijssens, who previously collaborated on ‘Girl.’ Their partnership suggests a continued focus on nuanced character development and compelling storytelling. The film’s setting during the First World War provides a rich historical canvas for exploring themes of bravery, fear, and the resilience of the human spirit. The Academy Awards ceremony for the 99th edition is scheduled to take place in early 2027, with nominations typically announced in January of that year. ‘Coward’ will now undergo further evaluation by Academy members, who will vote on the shortlisted films to determine the final nominees and ultimately, the winner. The film’s journey through the awards season will be closely watched by the international film community.