
The Zone of Interest
The Holocaust serves as the starting point for an exceptional display of cinematic quality, infused with a distinct perspective on the horrors of Nazism.

A British-funded film is a classic at the Oscars, this year's leading entry is a story shot in German. In addition to being nominated for Best Picture, it also received a boost in Best International Feature Film, when France decided not to pick 'Anatomy of a Fall' as its representative. The adaptation of a novel by the late British author Martin Amis, who passed away less than a year ago, is poised to be the successor to 'All Quiet on the Western Front', the 2023 winner.

What is unprecedented is for a British-labeled film to clinch the Oscar for Best International Feature Film. Filmed in German, it feels as if Germany could be celebrating victory once again following last year's win.

Similar to "Past Lives," A24 didn't hesitate to take on the project for international distribution, raising its profile. It would be the top European film of the year, in the absence of 'Anatomy of a Fall'.

At Cannes, both films couldn't win the Palme d'Or, so 'The Zone of Interest' had to settle for the prestigious Grand Prix du Jury, a significant consolation prize previously won by 'Life Is Beautiful', 'Old Boy', and 'Son of Saul'.

'Life Is Beautiful' was a pioneer, winning Best International Feature Film and also being nominated for Best Picture. It was followed by others like 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon', 'Amour', 'Roma', 'Parasite', 'Drive My Car', 'All Quiet on the Western Front' and 'The Zone of Interest'

LThe film has catapulted director Jonathan Glazer to stardom. Previously known for his eclectic work, such as 'Sexy Beast' with a phenomenal Ben Kingsley, 'Birth' with Nicole Kidman, and 'Under the Skin' with Scarlett Johansson.

Glazer is a surprise contender for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay, masterfully adapting Martin Amis's novel of the same name. This isn't the first time one of Amis' books has been adapted for the screen.

German actress Sandra Hüller delivers a powerful performance in the film. She narrowly missed out on a nomination for Best Supporting Actress, thus not achieving a double nomination following 'Anatomy of a Fall'. She did receive a nomination at the BAFTAs.

'The Zone of Interest' has captivated audiences by showing the banality that occurred right next to the terror of Nazism in Germany and Poland. Steven Spielberg has been particularly impressed, considering it the best Holocaust film since his 'Schindler's List'—high praise indeed.

It's nominated for Best Sound, which could be its chance to win an award. While 'Oppenheimer' may have a slight edge, the sound design in 'The Zone of Interest' is nearly flawless, showcasing the exceptional work of near-newcomers Tarn Willers and Johnnie Burn.

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