Belgium has chosen director Lukas Dhont's latest film as its entry for Best International Feature Film at the 99th Academy Awards, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The film, Coward, is a queer drama set in the Belgian trenches of the First World War. It follows Pierre, played by Emmanuel Macchia, a young Belgian soldier struggling to continue, who finds hope and eventually romance with the flamboyant Francis, played by Valentin Campagne. Francis entertains the troops with gender-bending theatrical performances and impromptu song and dance numbers.
The film premiered in competition at Cannes, where Macchia and Campagne both won best acting honors.
Dhont previously earned an Oscar nomination in the same category for his 2022 film Close. Coward reunites him with several close collaborators, including Close co-writer Angelo Tijssens and his producer brother Michiel Dhont. The new film also connects back to his 2018 debut, Girl.
Mubi acquired Coward for North America and a number of international territories, including the UK, Germany, Italy, and Australia and New Zealand. The film is set to open in US and Canadian theaters on December 25. International sales are being handled by The Match Factory.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will announce the 15-film shortlist for Best International Feature Film on December 15. The five nominees will be revealed on January 21, 2027. The 99th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 14, 2027.
