The Royal Film Commission of Jordan has officially announced that the poignant drama The Remaining of You has been selected as the country’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for 2026.
The selection committee praised the film for its profound emotional depth and its ability to weave a local narrative into a universal story of memory, loss, and endurance. The film’s selection marks another significant milestone for Jordanian cinema, which has consistently gained traction on the global stage over the past decade.
A Journey of Identity and Memory
Directed by one of the region’s rising cinematic voices, The Remaining of You explores the complex layers of human connection through the lens of a family navigating the echoes of their past. The narrative is noted for its lyrical visual style and its intimate portrayal of Jordanian social fabric, blending contemporary realism with a hauntingly beautiful exploration of what stays behind when everything else is gone.
Industry insiders suggest the film was a clear frontrunner for the selection due to its successful run at international film festivals throughout late 2025 and early 2026, where it garnered critical acclaim for its performances and atmospheric storytelling.
Jordan’s Growing Presence at the Academy
By submitting The Remaining of You, Jordan continues its tradition of sending daring and artistically rigorous films to the Oscars. This move is seen as a strategic step to further cement the kingdom’s reputation as a hub for high-quality Middle Eastern storytelling.
The film’s campaign is expected to highlight:
• Narrative Authenticity: A story rooted in the specific cultural nuances of the Levant while addressing themes of global resonance.
• Cinematic Craftsmanship: Exceptional cinematography that captures the stark beauty of the Jordanian landscape.
• Strong Lead Performances: A cast that has been lauded for bringing a raw, understated power to the screen.
The Road to the 98th Oscars
The “longlist” of international submissions will be narrowed down to a shortlist in late 2025, with the final five nominees to be announced in early 2026. Supporters of the film are optimistic that its unique perspective and artistic merit will resonate with the Academy’s voters.
As The Remaining of You begins its official Oscar campaign, it carries the pride of a nation’s film industry, standing as a testament to the power of Jordanian voices in the modern cinematic landscape.
