Poland has chosen ‘Fatherland’, directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, as its official submission for the Oscars 2027 International Feature Film race.
Poland has officially nominated Fatherland, directed and co-written by Paweł Pawlikowski, for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2027 Academy Awards. The Polish selection committee confirmed this choice on September 18, 2026, as reported by Deadline. This film highlights the emotional depth of a notable historical figure and the complexities of familial relationships within a politically tumultuous landscape.
Fatherland centers around the intricate relationship between the Nobel Prize-winning writer Thomas Mann, portrayed by Hanns Zischler, and his daughter Erika, played by Oscar-nominated actress Sandra Hüller. Set during the challenging summer of 1949, the narrative follows their journey across a divided Germany, emphasizing both national fragmentation and deep-rooted emotional struggles within their family. The film not only illuminates a personal story but also reflects the broader socio-political issues of post-World War II Europe.
The film premiered at the Cannes Competition, where it received a warm welcome from critics and audiences alike, leading to Pawlikowski being awarded the Best Director title ex aequo. The distribution rights for the film in the United States will be handled by Mubi, enhancing its visibility during a highly competitive awards season. This recognition further solidifies Pawlikowski's stature in the international cinema landscape, following his previous accomplishments.
The film's ensemble cast includes outstanding performances from August Diehl, Devid Striesow, and Anna Madeley, showcasing a talented group of actors that enrich the narrative. The screenplay, co-written by Pawlikowski and Henk Handloegten, provides depth to the characters and emphasizes their motivations throughout the film.
Before creating Fatherland, Pawlikowski's film Ida received significant acclaim, garnering 70 international awards, including the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards. His subsequent project, Cold War, further established his reputation, earning multiple nominations including Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film at the 91st Academy Awards. This trajectory reflects Pawlikowski's talent for weaving intricate narratives that resonate on both personal and societal levels.
Fatherland is produced by a distinguished team including Mario Gianani and Lorenzo Mieli for OUR FILMS, alongside collaborations with Extreme Emotions and Chapter 2. The film's evocative visual storytelling is executed by Academy Award-nominated cinematographer Łukasz Żal, ensuring a compelling viewer experience that draws audiences into the film's emotionally charged landscape.
The selection of Fatherland as Poland's official Oscars submission highlights its cultural relevance and Pawlikowski's ongoing contributions to cinematic art. With its poignant narrative and stellar direction, the film is poised to capture the attention of audiences and critics alike during the upcoming awards season. As competition intensifies, Fatherland stands as a testament to Pawlikowski’s legacy in Polish cinema, promising to engage audiences with its profound examination of personal and historical themes.
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