The 2021 Foreign Film Oscar nominees represented a dazzling array of cinematic voices from around the globe. These films, officially known as the Best International Feature Film category, offered a window into diverse cultures, perspectives, and storytelling traditions. Let's dive into the captivating world of the nominees, exploring their themes, narratives, and the impact they had on the world of cinema. Guys, this was a year of serious talent, and each film brought something special to the table!

Exploring the Nominees

Each year, the Academy Awards bring together incredible stories. For the 2021 Foreign Film Oscar nominees, each film was a masterpiece. We will go over each one of them and highlight the amazing work of the filmmakers. It’s like taking a trip around the world without leaving your couch, seriously!

Another Round (Denmark)

Another Round, or Druk in its original Danish, was directed by Thomas Vinterberg and emerged as the eventual winner of the Oscar. This thought-provoking dramedy explores the concept of social drinking and its effects on middle-aged men experiencing a mid-life crisis. The story revolves around four high school teachers who embark on an experiment to maintain a constant level of intoxication throughout the day, believing it will improve their social and professional lives.

The film's brilliance lies in its nuanced exploration of complex themes such as:

• Alcoholism: The film doesn't shy away from depicting the darker side of alcohol consumption and the potential for addiction.
• Mid-life Crisis: It poignantly captures the struggles of men grappling with feelings of inadequacy, boredom, and disillusionment.
• Friendship: The bond between the four teachers is tested as their experiment spirals out of control.
• Living Life to the Fullest: Ultimately, the film encourages viewers to embrace life's uncertainties and find joy in the present moment.

Mads Mikkelsen delivers a powerful and captivating performance as Martin, the film's central character. His portrayal of a man struggling with his identity and purpose is both heartbreaking and relatable. Vinterberg's direction is masterful, blending humor and pathos seamlessly to create a film that is both entertaining and deeply moving. The film won best film in the Bodil Awards.

Better Days (Hong Kong)

Better Days, directed by Derek Tsang, is a poignant and unflinching look at bullying, academic pressure, and social isolation in contemporary China. The film centers on the relationship between a bullied high school student, Chen Nian, and a street thug, Xiao Bei, who become unlikely allies in a harsh and unforgiving world.

The film tackles several important social issues:

• Bullying: Better Days offers a raw and disturbing depiction of the pervasive nature of bullying in schools and its devastating impact on victims.
• Academic Pressure: The film highlights the immense pressure that Chinese students face to succeed academically, often at the expense of their mental and emotional well-being.
• Social Inequality: It exposes the stark inequalities that exist in Chinese society and the lack of opportunities for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Youth Violence: The film explores the cycle of violence and the factors that drive young people to commit desperate acts.

The film's strength lies in its compelling narrative, strong performances, and its willingness to confront difficult and uncomfortable truths. Zhou Dongyu and Jackson Yee deliver outstanding performances as Chen Nian and Xiao Bei, respectively, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of their characters. This film really hits you in the feels, guys.

Collective (Romania)

Collective, directed by Alexander Nanau, is a gripping documentary that exposes corruption and systemic failures within the Romanian healthcare system. The film follows a team of investigative journalists as they uncover a massive scandal involving the fraudulent dilution of disinfectants in hospitals, leading to the deaths of numerous patients.

The film serves as a powerful indictment of:

• Government Corruption: It reveals the extent to which corruption can permeate government institutions and endanger the lives of ordinary citizens.
• Healthcare System Failures: It exposes the systemic problems that plague the Romanian healthcare system, including inadequate funding, lack of transparency, and a culture of impunity.
• Investigative Journalism: It celebrates the importance of investigative journalism in holding power accountable and exposing wrongdoing. Collective is a harrowing and eye-opening film that will leave you shocked and outraged. Nanau's direction is superb, capturing the drama and suspense of the investigation without sensationalizing the story. The film is a testament to the power of truth and the importance of fighting for justice.

The Man Who Sold His Skin (Tunisia)

The Man Who Sold His Skin, directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, is a satirical drama that explores themes of art, freedom, and the commodification of the human body. The film tells the story of Sam Ali, a Syrian refugee in Lebanon who agrees to have a large tattoo of a Schengen visa applied to his back by a renowned contemporary artist. He becomes a living work of art, exhibited in museums and galleries, but at what cost?

The film raises important questions about:

• The Art World: It critiques the often-pretentious and exploitative nature of the contemporary art world.
• The Refugee Crisis: It highlights the desperation and vulnerability of refugees seeking asylum in Europe.
• Commodification of the Human Body: It explores the ethical implications of treating the human body as a commodity.
• Freedom and Identity: It examines the challenges faced by individuals who are forced to sacrifice their freedom and identity in order to survive.

The film is visually stunning, with striking imagery and a thought-provoking narrative. Yahya Mahayni delivers a strong performance as Sam Ali, capturing the character's naivete and his growing awareness of the implications of his decision. This film is a real conversation starter, guys.

Quo Vadis, Aida? (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Quo Vadis, Aida?, directed by Jasmila Žbanić, is a powerful and heart-wrenching drama that tells the story of Aida, a UN translator in Srebrenica during the Bosnian War. The film follows Aida as she desperately tries to save her husband and sons from the impending massacre by Bosnian Serb forces.

The film is a devastating portrayal of:

• The Srebrenica Massacre: It offers a harrowing and unflinching account of one of the darkest chapters in European history.
• The Failure of the United Nations: It exposes the UN's failure to protect the civilian population of Srebrenica.
• The Trauma of War: It captures the devastating impact of war on individuals and communities.
• The Importance of Remembrance: It serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering the victims of genocide and preventing future atrocities.

Jasna Đuričić delivers a tour-de-force performance as Aida, conveying the character's strength, determination, and utter despair. Žbanić's direction is masterful, creating a film that is both emotionally devastating and historically important. Get ready to shed some tears with this one, folks.

Impact and Significance

The 2021 Foreign Film Oscar nominees collectively showcased the power of cinema to transcend cultural boundaries and foster empathy and understanding. These films tackled important social and political issues, prompting dialogue and raising awareness around the world. They reminded us of the importance of:

• Cultural Exchange: Film allows us to experience different cultures and perspectives, broadening our understanding of the world.
• Social Commentary: Cinema can be a powerful tool for social commentary, exposing injustice and promoting change.
• Human Connection: Ultimately, these films reminded us of our shared humanity and the importance of connecting with others, regardless of their background or beliefs.

The 2021 Foreign Film Oscar nominees served as a powerful reminder of the importance of international cinema and its ability to enrich our lives and challenge our perspectives. Each film was a testament to the creativity and talent of filmmakers from around the world, and they left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. Seriously, guys, if you haven't seen these films, add them to your watchlist ASAP!

Where to Watch

Finding these gems might take a little digging, but it's totally worth it! Here's the lowdown on where you might be able to catch these films:

• Streaming Services: Keep an eye on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max. They often pick up international films.
• Criterion Channel: If you're a cinephile, the Criterion Channel is your best friend. They specialize in classic and contemporary films from around the world.
• Local Theaters: Check out independent and art house theaters in your area. They often screen foreign films that you won't find in mainstream cinemas.
• DVD/Blu-ray: For the collectors out there, some of these films might be available on DVD or Blu-ray.

Happy watching, film fans! Enjoy the journey through these incredible stories. You won't regret it!