Thailand Sends ‘9 Temples to Heaven’ to Oscar International Feature Competition
The National Federation of Motion Pictures and Contents Associations has selected Sompot Chidgasornpongse’s film “9 Temples to Heaven” as Thailand’s entry for the International Feature category at the 99th Academy Awards.
Thailand’s official film body, the National Federation of Motion Pictures and Contents Associations, announced that Sompot Chidgasornpongse’s “9 Temples to Heaven” will represent the country in the International Feature Film race at the 99th Academy Awards. A specialist panel drawn from directors, producers, distributors and theater operators evaluated 51 eligible movies, ultimately shortlisting eight before settling on the Cannes-premiered drama.
The story tracks a Thai family’s day-long journey to nine temples after a fortune-teller predicts the mother’s imminent death. Production involves Kick The Machine Films, At A Time in Thailand and co-producers from Singapore, France, Norway, China, Hong Kong and Indonesia, with Playtime managing global sales. The Academy will first cut all entries to a 15-film shortlist, then announce five nominees ahead of the March 14, 2027 ceremony. Thailand has submitted 33 films since 1984 but has never secured a nomination, coming closest when “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” reached the shortlist at the 97th ceremony.
Why it matters
Thailand’s Oscar submission highlights the nation’s growing presence in global cinema and could boost international interest in its film industry.
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