NFVF Opens Call for South African Films to Represent the Country at the 99th Academy Awards

The National Film and Video Foundation, NFVF, has opened submissions for South African filmmakers to put forward feature-length films for consideration as South Africa’s official entry to the 99th Academy Awards International Feature Film category.

The selected film will represent South Africa on one of the world’s biggest film stages and compete for a nomination at the Oscars.

The NFVF is the organization officially recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to coordinate South Africa’s submission process.

The submission process is designed to showcase South African filmmaking talent globally and give local stories wider international visibility.

“Being selected as South Africa’s official entry is a major milestone for any filmmaker,” the NFVF noted. “It puts South African stories in front of international audiences and industry decision-makers.

The production must demonstrate strong South African creative leadership in key roles such as director, writer, and producer.

How to apply

All eligible submissions will be reviewed by the South African Academy Selection Committee. The committee is made up of experienced film industry professionals.

After evaluating the films, the committee will select one production to represent South Africa at the 99th Academy Awards in the International Feature Film category.

Films that have won a qualifying award at an international film festival may be eligible to submit directly to the Academy.

However, even with direct submission, the film must still meet all other Academy eligibility requirements, including language, release, and creative control.

For South African filmmakers, an Oscars submission is more than an award entry. It’s a chance for global visibility.

Past South African submissions have helped directors, producers, and actors gain international distribution deals, festival invitations, and co-production opportunities. The selected film will be promoted by the NFVF and the Academy throughout awards season.

It also highlights the diversity of South African storytelling — from township dramas and historical narratives to animation and documentary work that addresses social issues.

At least seven consecutive days in a commercial cinema with paid admission.The South African Academy Selection Committee reviews all submissions and chooses one film to represent the country

The NFVF’s call gives South African filmmakers a clear pathway to international recognition. With the global film industry paying closer attention to African stories, the opportunity comes at a time when South African cinema is gaining momentum.

For filmmakers with a film releasing in the qualifying window, this is the chance to put South African creativity on the Oscar stage.