Germany has selected Mascha Schilinski’s feature film, “In Die Sonne Schauen” (Looking at the Sun), as its entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. The decision followed a review of five submitted films by an independent jury on August 20th and 21st in Munich, as announced by German Films, the organization responsible for coordinating the selection process.
The film interweaves the lives of four women – Alma (1910s), Erika (1940s), Angelika (1980s) and Nelly (2020s) – each experiencing childhood or youth on a remote farmhouse in the Altmark region. The narrative explores how a tragic event repeats itself across generations, blurring the lines between past and present.
The jury cited the film’s “formal uncompromising nature, emotional existentiality and artistic uniqueness” as key factors in their choice. They described it as a work of “rare urgency, masterfully directed, poetic, universal and courageous” noting its ability to create a “physical experience that resonates and remains in the memory.
Director Mascha Schilinski expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Germany at the Oscars. “The journey of the film, including the Jury Prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival and now the chance to represent Germany at the Academy Awards, confirms our belief in the power of artistic vision” she stated. Producers Maren Schmitt, Lucas Schmidt and Lasse Scharpen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that films directed by women remain significantly underrepresented in the 98-year history of the Oscars.
The Academy plans to release a list of all submissions in the Best International Feature Film category in early November. Last year, 85 countries submitted films. A shortlist of 15 titles will be announced on December 16, 2025, followed by the announcement of the five nominees on January 22, 2026. The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is currently scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026.