WANA (Sep 16) – Iran has chosen Cause of Death: Unknown, directed by Ali Zarnegar and produced by Majid Barzegar, as its official submission to the 2026 Academy Awards.

 

The nine-member selection committee unanimously voted in favor of the film after reviewing the country’s shortlisted titles.

 

Committee members included actress Pantea Panahiha, documentary filmmaker Azadeh Mousavi, directors Abolhassan Davoudi and Mostafa Kiaei, screenwriter Farhad Tohidi, cinematographer Hooman Behmanesh, sound designer and Academy member Mohammadreza Delpak, actor Ali Dehkordi, and Mohammadreza Tashakori, who also served as committee secretary and international distributor.

 

This year’s selection process was marked by significant debate and competition, particularly between the films Oldboy (Pir Pesar) and Woman and Child (Zan o Bacheh), both of which had strong backing from supporters.

 

Ultimately, however, neither was chosen as Iran’s final entry, with Cause of Death: Unknown securing the nomination to represent Iranian cinema on the world stage.

WANA - “Cause of Death Unknown” Iran’s Entry for 2026 Oscars

“Cause of Death Unknown” Iran’s Entry for 2026 Oscars. Social media/ WANA News Agency