The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially unveiled the feature films eligible for the Animated Feature Film, Documentary Feature Film, and International Feature Film categories for the upcoming 97th Academy Awards®. These films represent a rich tapestry of creative storytelling across genres and global cinema.

Animated Feature Film

A total of 31 films are eligible for the Animated Feature Film category this year. While some entries are pending their required qualifying releases, they must fulfill this criterion and adhere to all category-specific rules to proceed in the competition.

Voting in this category is led by members of the Animation Branch, with additional Academy members invited to opt-in, provided they meet the minimum viewing requirements. Notably, animated films submitted in the International Feature Film category by their respective countries are also eligible for this award. Furthermore, animated films can compete for other categories, including the coveted Best Picture.

Documentary Feature Film

The Academy has listed 169 films eligible for the Documentary Feature Film category. Like animated features, these entries must meet qualifying release criteria and adhere to all rules to remain in contention.

Films that have won awards at qualifying film festivals or were submitted as their country’s official selection in the International Feature Film category are also eligible. Members of the Documentary Branch will vote to finalize the shortlist of 15 films, set to be announced on December 17, 2024.

International Feature Film

A record 85 countries and regions have submitted films for consideration in the International Feature Film category. This prestigious category is reserved for feature-length films produced outside the United States, with a majority (over 50%) of the dialogue in a non-English language.

Preliminary voting is open to all Academy members across branches who opt in and meet the viewing requirements. Like the Documentary Feature category, the shortlist of 15 films will also be announced on December 17, 2024.

Key Dates for the 97th Oscars

Preliminary Voting: December 9–13, 2024 Shortlist Announcement: December 17, 2024 Nominations Announcement: January 17, 2025 97th Oscars Ceremony: March 2, 2025, at the Dolby® Theatre in Hollywood