The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has unveiled the list of films eligible for the 97th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. A total of 323 films are in contention across various categories, with a separate list of 207 movies vying for the coveted Best Picture award.
Among the 207 films competing for Best Picture, six Indian films have made the cut: Aadujeevitham (also known as The Goat Life), Santosh, Putul, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, All We Imagine as Light, Kanguva, and Girls Will Be Girls. One of the most surprising inclusions is the Tamil period action drama Kanguva, which faced significant challenges at the box office despite its massive production scale.
Starring Suriya in the lead role and directed by Siva, Kanguva was produced on an extravagant budget of approximately Rs 350 crore. Unfortunately, the film failed to resonate with audiences due to what critics described as poor direction and a predictable storyline. The movie’s performance at the box office was underwhelming, earning a net domestic collection of Rs 70 crore and a worldwide gross of Rs 106 crore. This financial performance marked Kanguva as the biggest Indian box-office disappointment of 2024. Alongside Suriya, the movie featured Bobby Deol as the antagonist and Disha Patani as the female lead.
The Oscars nomination voting process is set to commence on January 8, 2025, and will close on January 12. The final list of nominees will be revealed on January 17, adding excitement as the prestigious event approaches.
While Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao’s film Laapataa Ladies did not make it to the shortlist for the Best International Feature Film category, India still has potential for recognition at the Oscars. Guneet Monga’s production Anuja has been shortlisted in the Best Live Action Short Film category. Meanwhile, Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light, which has already garnered significant acclaim at various international film festivals, is anticipated to secure several nominations, further elevating India’s prospects at the 97th Academy Awards.
India’s journey to the Oscars this year highlights a mix of high hopes and notable challenges. The inclusion of six Indian films in the Best Picture race underscores the diversity and global reach of Indian cinema. Among them, All We Imagine as Light stands out due to its impressive track record at international festivals, where it has won numerous accolades.
Director Payal Kapadia’s work in All We Imagine as Light has been praised for its compelling narrative and visual storytelling. The film’s potential to secure multiple nominations signals the growing recognition of Indian arthouse cinema on the global stage. Industry experts and critics have noted that the movie could become a significant contender in categories beyond Best Picture, reflecting the strength of its creative execution.
On the other hand, the inclusion of Kanguva in the Best Picture list has sparked debate within the industry. Despite its financial setbacks, the film’s nomination represents the evolving criteria for cinematic recognition, where aspects such as cultural impact and ambition are increasingly valued. “The production scale of Kanguva is undeniable, and it showcases the potential of Indian cinema to compete globally, even if box office numbers don’t align with expectations,” noted a prominent film analyst.
Another Indian entry, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, also generated buzz due to its historical significance and unique narrative focus. Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, the biopic sheds light on the life and contributions of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle. The film’s critical reception has been mixed, with praise for its performances but some criticism regarding its historical interpretation. Nonetheless, its inclusion in the list reflects a growing appreciation for films rooted in India’s rich history and culture.
Adding to the diverse slate, Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life), based on the best-selling novel by Benyamin, is another strong contender. Directed by Blessy, the film follows the life of a migrant worker in Saudi Arabia and has been lauded for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by Indian expatriates. Its selection emphasizes the global relevance of stories that delve into human resilience and cultural identity.
Films like Girls Will Be Girls and Putul have also captured attention for their unique themes and independent filmmaking approaches. Both movies have been celebrated for challenging conventional storytelling norms and providing fresh perspectives on societal issues.
India’s representation at the Oscars this year is bolstered further by Guneet Monga’s Anuja, which has made it to the shortlist for Best Live Action Short Film. Monga, known for her Academy Award-winning documentary Period. End of Sentence, continues to make waves with her storytelling. Anuja has been described as an emotionally gripping tale that resonates with audiences worldwide, offering another example of India’s growing prowess in the short film category.
Reflecting on these developments, industry observers have highlighted the increasing global acknowledgment of Indian cinema’s creative diversity. “It’s an exciting time for Indian filmmakers, as the industry is expanding its horizons and telling stories that resonate universally,” said a noted film critic.
With the Oscars 2025 on the horizon, India’s film community is eagerly awaiting the announcement of final nominations on January 17. Regardless of the outcomes, the inclusion of these films in the eligibility and shortlist categories is a testament to the evolving narrative and artistic achievements of Indian cinema. The journey from being contenders to potential winners could mark another milestone in India’s cinematic legacy on the global stage.