Four years ago, Polish filmmaker Pawel Pawlikowski saw his feature Ida take the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar. This year at the Cannes Film Festival, his new drama Cold War earned him the Best Director prize there. Now that it’s also played at Venice, the film continues to gather steam for the 2018 Academy Awards.
Most reviews have been raves and it’s highly likely that Poland will submit this as its selection for Oscar attention. Its inclusion in Foreign Language Film appears to be a given. The big question is whether it could possibly cross over and compete in Best Picture.
At best, there’s usually only one foreign feature that makes the leap into the largest race of all. In 2018, that slot appears to already be filled by Alfonso Cuaron’s Roma. However, if a number of American features fail to meet expectations, you never know.
Additionally, the lead actress in War is Joanna Kulig and critics have hailed her work. A nomination for her could be a long shot. Once again, Roma could have a greater chance at recognition with the work of newcomer Yalitza Aparicio.
Bottom line: Cold War is in fine position with Foreign Language Film, while anything else is a far more unclear question mark.
My Oscar Watch posts will continue…
