Swiss Hospital Drama “Heldin” Advances in Oscar’s International Feature Film Race
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The Swiss film “Heldin,” starring Leonie Benesch, has been shortlisted as one of 15 contenders in the “Best International Feature Film” category for the 98th Academy Awards, signaling a strong showing for Swiss cinema on the global stage.
The Film Academy in Los Angeles announced the preselection list, recognizing “Heldin” for its compelling narrative and powerful performances. The final nominations – a selection of just five films – will be revealed on January 22, 2025, with the awards ceremony scheduled for March 15, 2026.
A Race Against Time on the Surgical Ward
“Heldin” centers on Floria, a dedicated nurse navigating the demanding realities of an understaffed surgical ward. The film portrays her unwavering passion and professionalism as she confronts an increasingly frantic work environment, where each moment becomes critical. According to a statement from the Federal Office of Culture, Benesch’s performance was instrumental in the film’s submission for Oscar consideration. The office lauded both Benesch’s acting and the work of Swiss screenwriter and director Petra Volpe, describing the film as a “thoroughly captivating drama.”
International Competition Heats Up
Switzerland is not alone in its pursuit of Oscar glory. The shortlist includes a diverse range of international films, reflecting a global tapestry of cinematic storytelling. Germany has submitted Mascha Schilinski’s “Looking into the Sun,” a drama exploring themes of domestic violence and inherited trauma. Other contenders include films from South Korea (“No Other Choice”), Tunisia (“The Voice of Hind Rajab”), Argentina (“Belén”), France (“A Simple Accident”), Norway (“Sentimental Value”), Spain (“Sirât”), and Brazil (“The Secret Agent”).
Last December, Germany’s political thriller “The Seeds of the Sacred Fig Tree” also made the shortlist, ultimately earning a nomination. The previous year, the Brazilian drama “Forever Here” by Walter Salles took home the trophy for best international film.
The selection of “Heldin” underscores the growing recognition of Swiss filmmaking talent and its ability to resonate with audiences worldwide. The film’s success in reaching this stage of the competition is a testament to its artistic merit and its ability to tackle universal themes with sensitivity and nuance.
