The film that will represent Ukraine at the 99th Academy Awards has been selected
The Ukrainian Oscar Committee has selected the documentary *Traces*, directed by Alisa Kovalenko and co-directed by Marisa Nikitiuk, as Ukraine’s entry for the 99th Academy Awards in the “Best International Feature Film” category. A total of eight films were submitted for the national selection in 2026, and the decision was made by a 12-member committee.
The film tells the story of Ukrainian women’s quest for justice after surviving sexual violence and torture during the Russian invasion. The story centers on activist and former captive Iryna Dovhan, who documents the testimonies of survivors in de-occupied territories. The film has won awards at the Berlinale, Movies That Matter in The Hague, and Millenium Docs Against Gravity film festivals, and was named one of the top 20 audience favorites at Hot Docs in Toronto.
The shortlist of 15 films for the international award will be announced on December 15, 2026, and the five nominees will be revealed on January 21, 2027. The 99th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 14, 2027.
Source: Ukrainian Oscar Committee.
The dates for the next two Academy Awards ceremonies have been announced. At the same time, the organizers revealed new details regarding a major relocation of the event’s venue.
Starting in 2029, the Oscars ceremony will move to the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
