The British film industry celebrated a historic moment at the 2024 Oscars as “The Zone of Interest” clinched the award for Best International Feature, marking the UK’s first victory in this category.
Directed by Jonathan Glazer, the Holocaust drama has been the subject of widespread acclaim, particularly for its poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of life and evil within Auschwitz.
“The Zone of Interest,” adapted from Martin Amis’ novel, has a chilling narrative that follows the commandant of Auschwitz, Rudolf Höss, and his wife Hedwig, as they attempt to create an idyllic existence beside the notorious camp. The film’s dialogue, delivered in German and Polish, enhances its authenticity and immersive experience.
Glazer’s masterpiece, which features a haunting score by Mica Levi and striking cinematography by Lukasz Żal, has been a decade in the making. Its selection by BAFTA to represent the UK was a strategic move that paid off, given the film’s previous success at Cannes where it secured the Grand Prix and FIPRESCI prize.
The Hollywood Reporter’s review hailed the film as a “stone cold stunner,” emphasizing Glazer’s “unerring control of tonal and visual storytelling.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the industry, with many expressing little surprise at the film’s Oscar triumph.
In a powerful moment during the Oscars ceremony, Glazer took the opportunity to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
“Right now, we stand here as men who refute their Jewishness and the Holocaust being hijacked by an occupation, which has led to conflict for so many innocent people ~ whether the victims of October the 7th in Israel or the ongoing attack on Gaza ~ all the victims of this dehumanization… how do we resist?”
See his full speech below.
Despite the UK’s vibrant film industry, its track record in the Oscars’ international feature category has been less than stellar, with only two nominations across 19 nominations. However, “The Zone of Interest” has broken this cycle, bringing home an award that has long eluded British filmmakers.
The other nominees in the category were Io Capitano from Italy, Perfect Days from Japan, Society of the Snow from Spain, and The Teacher’s Lounge from Germany.