As the deadline for submissions to the 2025 Academy Awards approaches, several Asian nations have already announced their entries for the Best International Feature Film category. These films showcase the rich diversity of storytelling, cultural heritage, and artistic excellence that Asian cinema has to offer. From emotional dramas to historical epics, the entries reveal how filmmakers from the region continue to engage with local and global audiences, positioning themselves as contenders on one of the world’s biggest cinematic stages.
While a number of countries have finalized their selections, some key players, including China, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam, are still in the process of deciding which film will represent their nation. The anticipation surrounding their choices adds to the excitement as the October 2nd deadline draws near.
Hong Kong and Taiwan's Unique Contributions
Hong Kong, known for its dynamic film industry, has chosen Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In as its official entry. This film is a reflection of Hong Kong’s resilience, set in the backdrop of its complex socio-political landscape. The narrative touches on themes of confinement and freedom, making it a poignant entry for the international competition. Hong Kong has long been a contributor to global cinema, and this year’s selection is no exception, highlighting its continued relevance in world cinema.
Taiwan, meanwhile, has selected Old Fox, a film that takes a more introspective route, delving into personal relationships and moral dilemmas. Taiwan’s filmmaking has been celebrated for its ability to balance intimate storytelling with broader philosophical reflections, and Old Fox promises to continue this tradition. As Taiwan’s cinema evolves, its entries for international awards have increasingly been noted for their emotional depth and narrative complexity.
South Korea and Japan Continue to Lead in East Asia
South Korea, which has become a dominant force in the global film industry, particularly after the success of Parasite, has entered 12.12: The Day. South Korea’s film entries often balance commercial appeal with artistic flair, and this year’s contender is expected to captivate audiences with its blend of historical reflection and modern relevance. South Korean cinema’s consistent ability to merge genre elements with deeper thematic content continues to draw international attention.
Japan’s entry, Cloud, promises to uphold the nation’s tradition of reflective and visually stunning filmmaking. Japanese films are known for their artistic restraint and philosophical undertones, and Cloud appears to follow in the footsteps of this legacy. With its nuanced storytelling, Japan's submission highlights the importance of subtlety and emotional depth in international cinema.
Cambodia and Indonesia Represent Southeast Asia
In Southeast Asia, Cambodia has entered Meeting With Pol Pot, a film that dives into the painful historical legacy of the Khmer Rouge regime. Cambodian cinema has long grappled with the country’s tragic past, and this latest entry adds to the growing body of work that seeks to come to terms with national trauma through artistic expression. The film is expected to be a heavy but important watch, reflecting Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to remember and process its history.
Indonesia’s Woman from Rote Island tells a different kind of story, focusing on the life and struggles of a woman from the remote Rote Island. Indonesian cinema has been gaining momentum on the international stage, and this film reflects the country’s commitment to telling stories from its diverse archipelago. By focusing on the lives of people in less-represented regions, Indonesia highlights its cultural richness and the complexity of its national identity.
India’s Laapata Ladies: A Journey of Identity
India, a country with a prolific film industry, has entered Laapata Ladies as its contender. This film explores themes of identity and self-discovery, shedding light on the struggles of women in contemporary India. Indian cinema has historically been dominated by Bollywood, but recent years have seen a surge in independent and regional films gaining international recognition. Laapata Ladies exemplifies this trend, bringing to the fore narratives that challenge societal norms and offer fresh perspectives on modern life in India.
India’s choice for the Academy Awards demonstrates its willingness to explore more nuanced, socially-conscious topics, a move that aligns with the global trend towards films that reflect contemporary issues.
The Remaining Selections Await Announcement
As the Academy Awards submission deadline looms, a number of Asian countries are still in the final stages of choosing their entries. China, often a major player in global cinema, has yet to announce its official selection, though the film industry in the country is known for producing strong contenders. Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam are also expected to unveil their entries soon, each bringing its own unique voice to the competition.
The Best International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards has long been a platform for showcasing the cultural and artistic diversity of world cinema. With Asia’s entries continuing to reflect the continent’s varied storytelling traditions, this year’s competition promises to be as rich and dynamic as ever.
