Spain's Oscar Contenders: 'The Blue Star' and 'Second Prize' Selected for International Feature Film
Spain has announced its contenders for the Best International Feature Film category at the prestigious 97th Academy Awards, scheduled to take place on March 3rd. The films preselected by the Spanish Academy of Cinema are 'The Blue Star' and 'Second Prize,' with the announcement made by notable actresses Malena Alterio, Victoria Luengo, and Belén Cuesta during a special event held at the Academy's headquarters at 11 a.m.
'The Blue Star' is a unique Spanish-Argentinian coproduction that delves into the life of Mauricio Aznar, a distinguished Spanish rocker who embarks on a journey through Latin America, seeking to rediscover his musical passion. The film is poised to resonate with audiences due to its heartfelt narrative and cultural backdrop.
In contrast, 'Marco,' directed by Aitor Arregi and Jon Garaño and featuring performances by Eduard Fernández, portrays the life of Enric Marco Batlle, a Spanish trade unionist who falsely claimed for years to have survived a Nazi concentration camp. Marco's story unfolds within the historical context of his roles as Secretary General of the National Confederation of Labor (CNT) and as President of the Mauthausen Friends Association in Spain. The film has already garnered acclaim, having been showcased in the official section of the prestigious Venice Film Festival.
On the other hand, 'Second Prize,' directed by Isaki Lacuesta, tells the poignant tale of an indie music group navigating the intricacies of life in 1990s Granada. The film draws inspiration from the renowned Spanish band Los Planetas and captures the essence of an era marked by artistic struggle and musical exploration. 'Second Prize' has already claimed the Biznaga de Oro at the Málaga Film Festival, further solidifying its position as a noteworthy contender.
An announcement set for September 18th will reveal which film will ultimately represent Spain at the Oscars. As the awards ceremony approaches, the anticipation builds over whether the selected Spanish film will secure a nomination for Best International Feature Film. In the previous year, Spain's contenders included '20,000 Species of Bees' by Estibaliz Urresola, 'Close Your Eyes' by Víctor Erice, and 'The Snow Society' by Juan Antonio Bayona, with 'The Snow Society' eventually being chosen and nominated for its poignant portrayal of the Alps tragedy.
As excitement mounts in the cinematic community, both 'The Blue Star' and 'Second Prize' represent Spain's rich tapestry of storytelling and artistic expression on the global stage.
Related Sources: