Belgium has made its decision for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2024 Oscars, and it’s rapper-turned-filmmaker Baloji’s debut feature, Omen. This groundbreaking film made its debut at Cannes 2023 in the Un Certain Regard sidebar and has been capturing attention ever since. Omen tells the story of Koffi, a young Congolese man who returns to his birthplace in Kinshasa after spending years in Belgium, to confront the complexities of his family and culture.
Omen is a co-production between Belgium, the Netherlands, Congo, France, and South Africa, showcasing the power of international collaboration in the film industry. The film’s outstanding and unique perspective earned it the prestigious New Vision Award at Cannes, solidifying its place among the industry’s finest. The cast is led by Marc Zinga, known for his remarkable work with the Dardenne brothers, alongside a talented ensemble including Lucie Debay, Eliane Umuhire, Yves-Marina Gnahoua, and Marcel Otete Kabeya.
A Date for Belgian Audiences to Mark
Belgian audiences can look forward to experiencing Omen on the big screen, as its theatrical release is scheduled for November 15th. The film will be distributed in France by Pan Distribution, while Memento International will handle its worldwide sales. Omen is a testament to the strength and creativity of the Belgian film industry, with a slew of production companies involved, including Special Touch Studios, Wrong Men, New Amsterdam Film Company, Tosala Films, RadicalMedia, Serendipity Films, and Big World Cinema.
Belgium’s previous selection for the Oscars, Lukas Dhont’s Close, made waves at the Cannes Film Festival and went on to secure a nomination in the Best International Feature Film category. Close, produced by Michiel Dhont and Dirk Impens for Menuet and co-produced by Diaphana, Topkapi Films, and Versus Productions, showcased Belgium’s ability to craft thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinema. The film competed with acclaimed titles such as Claire Denis’s Stars at Noon and ultimately stood tall among the nominees.
As of now, Belgium’s decision joins a growing list of submissions for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2024 Oscars. Each country’s selection represents a unique cultural perspective and showcases the diverse stories being told around the world. The competition promises to be fierce, with standout submissions already coming from Germany, Argentina, Poland, and Ireland.
Belgium’s choice of Baloji’s Omen marks an exciting moment for the country’s film industry and highlights the growing recognition of diverse voices and stories. Omen’s exploration of cultural identity and its multinational production serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and artistic expression. Audiences worldwide eagerly await the film’s release, while industry insiders anticipate its journey through the awards season, placing Belgium firmly on the global cinematic map once again.