The CFTA academics chose by voting the documentary feature If Pigeons Turned to Gold (Czech Republic, Slovakia), directed by Pepa Lubojacki and produced by Wanda Kaprálová and Klára Mamojková of CLAW films, to compete in the Oscar jousting.

In the intimate and formally original documentary feature the director followed for five years the fortunes of her brother and two cousins whose addictions were slowly destroying their relationships, homes and their feeling of safety. Using the DIY aesthetics the director interlinks diary shots, stylized memories, live photos as well as graphic collages and without any sentiments tries to understand the reasons of their fall and also the impact of it on the whole family. The film had a world premiere in February this year at the Berlinale film festival, where it obtained the award for the best documentary feature as well as the independent prize Caligari. The film will be premiered officially in Czech cinemas at the end of September.

The ceremonial presentation of the 99th annual awards of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will take place on March 14, 2027. The shortlisted selection of 15 international films will be published on December 15 this year, and the nominations will then be announced on January 21, 2027.