Global Battle for Gold: Denmark and Cuba Enter Oscar International Feature Fray

Two distinct cinematic works, May el-Toukhy’s “Woman Unknown” from Denmark and Carlos Larrazabal’s “Malecón” from Cuba, have been selected as their respective countries’ official entries for the highly anticipated international feature film race at the Academy Awards. These selections highlight diverse storytelling and artistic visions making their mark on the global stage.

Denmark's "Woman Unknown," directed by May el-Toukhy, has already garnered significant international acclaim, including the prestigious Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. The jury, presided over by Maggie Gyllenhaal, recognized the film's profound impact, and el-Toukhy notably stood as the sole female director in competition at Venice this year. Adding to its accolades, the film's star, Mathilde Arcel, was honored with the Coppa Volpi for best actress. Danish Film Institute CEO, Tine Fischer, highlighted the historical significance of el-Toukhy’s achievement, noting she is only the second Danish director to win the Golden Lion in Venice since Carl Th. Dreyer’s "Ordet" in 1955.

Fischer characterized “Woman Unknown” as a “bold and uncompromising film that explores guilt, shame and morality, showing how women’s bodies and destinies become the focus of society’s condemnation and control.” She further emphasized that the film "offers no easy answers but dares to ask difficult and important questions," positioning it strongly for the Oscar race due to its "strong artistic vision and thematic complexity." The narrative is set in Copenhagen in May 1945, where Marie, a maid, is on the verge of marrying an older widower. However, a hidden secret from her past threatens to unravel her new life, forcing her to confront the increasing price of its concealment, as "No one must know the truth."

Beyond Venice, “Woman Unknown” has been showcased at the Toronto Film Festival and is slated for screenings at the BFI London Film Festival and Busan. Director May el-Toukhy’s previous works include “Queen of Hearts,” which earned the Audience Award at Sundance and received both Robert and Bodil Awards in Denmark. Her portfolio also extends to directing episodes of the Emmy-winning series “The Crown” and co-initiating Dogma25, which launched during the Cannes Film Festival in 2025. The film, produced by Mikael Christian Rieks for Nordisk Film Production and supported by the Danish Film Institute, is set for release in Danish cinemas on February 4.

Meanwhile, Cuba has put forward Carlos Larrazabal’s “Malecón” as its official submission for Best International Feature Film at the 99th Academy Awards. This announcement coincides with the San Sebastián International Film Festival, following the film’s earlier acclaimed appearances at Mar del Plata, Miami, and Havana. In a significant development for its distribution, Movistar Plus has secured the streaming rights for “Malecón” in Spain, with specific release details to be unveiled later.

“Malecón” tells the story of Elvis, who returns to Havana after a decade in prison. Upon his return, he reconnects with his childhood sweetheart but soon finds himself entangled in the city’s criminal underworld. The plot centers on his struggle to decide the extent of the sacrifices he is willing to make to finance his escape from this life, and what he must ultimately leave behind. The film boasts an entirely Cuban production, having been shot on location in Cuba and co-written by Larrazabal and Cuban screenwriter Fabián Suárez, with its script developed through the prestigious Sundance Collab program.

The cast features an all-Cuban ensemble, led by César Domínguez, Camila Rodhes, Omar Rolando, and Yordanka Ariosa, supported by a dedicated Cuban production team. Producer Inti Herrera of i4films emphasized the film's dual ambition: "to travel the world and the intimacy of a story told from within." Herrera noted the profound contribution of the Cuban cast and crew, who infused the screen with "their own memories, humor and daily realities." The film’s ability to resonate with audiences globally, as well as locally in Havana, has been particularly meaningful, highlighting universal themes of friendship and difficult choices. Co-producers include acclaimed Cuban actor Jorge Perugorría, known for “Fresa y Chocolate,” and seasoned producer Flavio Florencio. Larrazabal himself articulated the film's genesis, stating it "was born from a profound connection with Cuba and from the need to tell a story about what it means to stay, to leave and to imagine a different future.”