The Armenian film industry has reached a significant milestone with the inclusion of the film Amerikatsi in the Oscars’ shortlist, for the first time in the country’s history. The film, directed by Michael Gurdjian, is one of the top 15 international feature films being considered for the esteemed award. This breakthrough comes as a result of a concerted effort to elevate the presence of Armenian cinema on the global stage.
Armenian films have seen a surge in their participation in international competitions and festivals by 74 percent in 2022, earning 28 international awards. This uptick indicates a shift in the global perception of Armenian cinema, with the industry gaining wider recognition for its creative offerings.
Amendments to the Law on Cinematography have been instrumental in this progress. The law has been restructured to be more comprehensive and accessible for international colleagues. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia has signed memorandums of cooperation with international organizations, laying the groundwork for future collaborations on global platforms such as Netflix.
Efforts are also being made to bolster the film industry within Armenia’s provinces. Programs have been initiated to host events in these regions, fostering a nationwide culture of cinematic appreciation and production.
The official Oscar nominees will be announced on January 23, 2024, with the final ceremony scheduled for March 10, 2024. The inclusion of Amerikatsi in the Oscar shortlist marks a turning point for Armenian cinema, placing it in the limelight on one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic stages.