Dutch film Beyond Silence shortlisted for an Oscar; Rietland misses out

Dutch director Marnie Blok’s film Beyond Silence is vying for an Oscar, having been shortlisted in the Live Action Short Film category, The Academy announced on Tuesday. The Dutch psychological thriller Rietland, which was submitted for consideration, did not make the shortlist in the International Feature Film category and is therefore no longer in the running.

Beyond Silence addresses the taboo surrounding sexual abuse and misconduct. The story follows a deaf student who approaches her dean in an effort to reveal her professor’s abusive behavior. The film stars Sigrid ten Napel, Tamar van den Dop, and Henrianne Jansen in leading roles.

“Beyond Silence gives space to those who have been silenced. By supporting our film, you have greatly expanded that space. You amplify voices that need to be heard. Dear Academy, we are deeply honored and grateful,” Blok wrote in a statement.

This marks Marnie Blok’s debut as a director. She previously penned the screenplay for last year’s series Máxima, and earlier this year, Beyond Silence earned an award at New York’s esteemed Tribeca Film Festival. Oscar nominations for 2026 will be revealed on January 22.

This year, Rietland represented the Netherlands in the race for the prestigious American film awards. The story centers on reed cutter Johan (Gerrit Knobbe), who finds a young girl’s lifeless body on his property. Plagued by guilt, he seeks answers while looking after his granddaughter. Sven Bresser’s debut feature premiered earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival and was met with enthusiastic reviews.

A Dutch film last made the Oscar shortlist in 2014, when Lucia de B. appeared in the International Feature Film category. The country’s last nomination came in 2003 for Twin Sisters (De Tweeling), while the most recent Dutch film to win an Oscar was Character (Karakter) in 1997.

Wicked: For Good and Sinners are emerging as the leading contenders for the 98th Oscars, each appearing on seven shortlists.

The two films are on the shortlists for categories including Makeup and Hairstyling, Music, Sound, Visual Effects, Casting, and Cinematography. Frankenstein is also a strong contender, with six shortlist mentions, while One Battle After Another appears in five categories.

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 16, 2026.