Iran’s Oscar Entry Joins the List of International Contenders

WANA (Nov 22) – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released the list of eligible films in the Animation, Documentary Feature, and International Feature categories for the 98th Academy Awards—a list of more than 300 titles that sets the stage for one of the most competitive races in recent years. Among the eligible international films is Iran’s submission, “Cause of Death: Unknown,” the debut feature by Ali Zarnegar.

According to the Academy, 86 films from various countries have qualified in the International Feature category. “Cause of Death: Unknown,” starring Banipal Shoomon, Alireza Thani-Far and Neda Jebreili, is one of these contenders. The road-movie drama follows seven travelers whose long journey takes a dramatic turn with the unexpected death of one passenger.

The Academy noted that several films on this year’s eligibility list have not yet received a public theatrical release; their qualification will only be finalized if they meet Oscar screening requirements by the end of the calendar year. The initial shortlist for all three categories is scheduled to be announced on December 16.

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

In the Animation category, 35 titles have been submitted and members of the animation branch will vote to select five nominees. The Documentary Feature category has received 201 submissions, the highest among the three sections. The branch will vote to determine a 15-film shortlist, also to be revealed on December 16, which will later be narrowed to five final nominees.

This year’s International Feature category showcases films from a wide range of countries. Notable entries include:

Belgium’s “Young Mothers”, Brazil’s “Secret Agent”, Canada’s “Things You Kill”, France’s “A Simple Accident” directed by Jafar Panahi, Germany’s “Looking at the Sun”, Hungary’s “Orphan”, Norway’s “Emotional Value”, South Korea’s “No Choice”, Spain’s “The Path”, Sweden’s “Republic Eagles” and Switzerland’s “Final Shift”.

Iran is represented by Ali Zarnegar’s “Cause of Death: Unknown.”

The inclusion of Zarnegar’s film alongside these prominent titles positions the Iranian entry for heightened international visibility—at a time when the competition is expected to be particularly dense and unpredictable.