Matthew Rankin’s ‘Universal Language’ advances to next round in Oscars race

By The Canadian Press on December 17, 2024.

A scene from the film "Universal Language" is shown in this undated handout photo. "Universal Language," an absurdist dramedy by Winnipeg writer-director Matthew Rankin, has claimed the $15,000 award for best Canadian film at this year's Vancouver International Film Festival. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - Telefilm Canada **MANDATORY CREDIT**

The Canadian absurdist dramedy “Universal Language” has advanced to the next round in the race for best international feature film at next year’s Oscars.

The movie from Winnipeg’s Matthew Rankin is one of 15 that made the short list for the category, five of which will be nominated for the award next month.

Each year, countries are asked to submit a film – in which no more than half the dialogue is English — for consideration in the category.

“Universal Language” sees Rankin play himself alongside a Persian- and French-speaking cast in an alternate universe where Winnipeg, Quebec and Tehran converge as one.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released short lists for 10 categories on Tuesday. After another round of voting, the nominations will be announced on Jan. 17.

The awards show is set for March 2.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 17, 2024.