Oscar 2026: 'Sentimental Value' surpasses 'The Secret Agent' as best international film
The film 'Sentimental Value' won the Oscar for Best International Film, overshadowing 'The Secret Agent' while celebrating notable achievements in diversity and representation in the filmmaking industry.
At the 2026 Oscar ceremony held in Los Angeles, the film 'Sentimental Value' clinched the award for Best International Film, surpassing competitors including 'The Secret Agent'. The event featured a series of celebrations throughout the city, highlighting the significance of the awards in showcasing diverse narratives in cinema. Notably, the film's lead, Michael B. Jordan, celebrated his win by choosing to eat hamburgers just blocks away from the theater, embodying a quintessentially American way of celebrating success.
In his acceptance speech, Jordan recognized the importance of representation in the film industry, becoming the sixth Black actor to win an Oscar in this category. The film addresses critical themes of racism, employing the horror genre as a vehicle for social commentary and garnering praise for its approach. Alongside winning Best International Film, 'Sentimental Value' triumphed in other categories, including Best Original Screenplay and Best Original Score, showcasing its compelling narrative and rich musical composition.
Additionally, history was made in the cinematography category, as Autumn Durald Arkapaw won for her work, marking the first time a woman has received an Oscar in this area. This recognition emphasizes the ongoing efforts within the industry to elevate diverse voices and perspectives, contributing to a more inclusive cinematic landscape. Overall, the 2026 Oscars highlighted significant achievements and provided a platform for discussions around representation in film.