Lithuanian cinema is gaining international recognition once again. The hit film Southern Chronicles (Pietinia kronikas), directed by Ignas Miškinis, has been officially selected as Lithuania’s contender for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category.
The nomination decision was announced by the Lithuanian selection committee and approved by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
Why Southern Chronicles?
According to the Chair of the Selection Committee, film critic Neringa Kažukauskaitė, the competition was intense:
“This year, the competition for the Oscar nomination was exceptionally strong, with each film having a real chance. After long discussions, we chose Southern Chronicles because of its remarkable vitality, pulsating energy, and the hope it radiates.”
Kažukauskaitė added that the film is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that resonates widely:
“It’s an authentic narrative about shaping identity. Our young actors shine on screen, and the story draws attention to Lithuania’s history and culture – which is especially significant in today’s geopolitical climate.”
Awards and Recognition
Southern Chronicles has already become a phenomenon in Lithuanian cinema.
- Best Baltic Film at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (2024)
- European Shooting Stars award for lead actor Džiugas Grinys at the Berlin International Film Festival
- 12 Silver Crane National Film Awards in Lithuania
- Record-breaking audience numbers with more than 411,000 viewers
Producer Lukas Trimonis of In Script commented:
“This universal story of growth and discovery is not only about personal maturity, but also a metaphor for Lithuania’s coming-of-age. We believe the ‘lads from the Southern district’ will resonate with international audiences.”
A Film That Captures Lithuania’s Spirit
The story, set in the turbulent 1990s, blends youth, love, and the search for identity. Laimonas Ubavičius, Head of the Lithuanian Film Centre, said:
“It is at once very Lithuanian and profoundly universal – a perfect choice to represent our country at the Academy Awards.”
What’s Next on the Road to the Oscars?
With its selection as Lithuania’s official Oscar entry, Southern Chronicles now joins the global competition. The Academy will shortlist the top five films worldwide before announcing the final nominees. The winners will be revealed at the 98th Academy Awards ceremony in March 2026.
About the Selection Process
The Lithuanian Film Centre, together with the Lithuanian Filmmakers’ Union (LKS), oversees the national selection for the Best International Feature Film category.
The 2025 Selection Committee includes:
- Film critics: Neringa Kažukauskaitė (Chair), Rūta Oginskaitė
- Producers: Arūnas Stoškus, Uljana Kim
- Documentary filmmaker: Arturas Jevdokimovas
- Actress: Eglė Mikulionytė
