96th Oscars: NOSC Calls for Entries 

By Vanessa Obioha 

The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), has called on Nigerian filmmakers to submit their feature films for consideration in the International Feature Film (IFF) category of the 96th Annual Academy Awards (Oscars). 

Recognized officially by AMPAS, the NOSC will select a single film to represent the country in the running for the IFF Award.

Starting from August 28, 2023, and continuing until September 15, 2023, filmmakers can submit their works via the NOSC portal, as announced by the committee.

The IFF Award is presented annually by the Academy to a feature-length motion picture produced outside the United States that contains 50 per cent or more in a language or languages other than English.

Apart from meeting this language requirement, submitted films must satisfy additional criteria, including English language subtitles that are both accurate and legible, specific shooting formats, and theatrical release conditions. These details can be found on the NOSC website. 

Newly appointed chairperson of NOSC, Stephanie Linus, expresses excitement at her new role, saying that the 96th Oscars presents another opportunity to honour exceptional Nigerian storytellers and talents on the global stage.

“I am honoured to take on the esteemed role of NOSC Chairperson for the Oscar Awards. I look forward to working closely with my committee members on our shared vision of promoting African filmmakers on a global platform. We now have a unique opportunity to honour the exceptional storytellers and talents whose works have entertained and connected us in many ways. I hope the decisions we make in the days ahead will inspire the next generation of filmmakers,” she stated.

Scheduled for Sunday, March 10, 2024,  at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, United States, the 96th Oscars ceremony is set to be broadcast live in over 200 territories across the globe