The 93rd Oscars Shortlists were announced today, among which the Taiwanese film “A Sun,” directed by Chung Mong-Hong, entered into the shortlist of Best International Feature Film, which consists of 15 titles determined from 93 eligible entries. This marks the second time that Taiwan’s selection enters the shortlist in this category since “Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale” earned the shortlist spot for the best foreign- language film in 2012.
As a profound dark drama, "A Sun" was praised for its memorable and moving portrayal of parent-child relations, and was highly recognized by international film festivals such as the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival, the Busan International Film Festival, the Tokyo International Film Festival, and the 2020 Asian Film Awards.
"A Sun" has won prizes at the 2019 Golden Horse Awards, including Best Feature Film, Best Leading Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Film Editing. Additionally, "A Sun" was considered as one of the top best films of 2020 by Variety, while The Hollywood Reporter listed it as one of "the 15 frontrunners in the international film race" for the Oscars 2021. It has also won Houston Film Critics Society award for the best foreign-language feature.
Mr. Lee Yung-te, Taiwan’s Minister of Culture, extends his congratulations to "A Sun," stating that he is proud of the film being shortlisted by the Academy and looks forward to the film winning the award. As an important catalyst for Taiwanese film industry, Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture will continue to enhance Taiwan’s film production with Taiwanese characteristics. Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) will work with the Ministry’s overseas offices to reach out to the international market, connecting Taiwan with the global film industry.
The nominations for the 93rd Academy Awards will be revealed on March 15, 2021. The 93rd Academy Awards ceremony will be held on April 25, 2021.