German film
August 27, 2009
Austrian director Michael Haneke's black-and-white film "Das weisse Band" (The White Ribbon) captured the imagination of the German Films jury and convinced its members "through its narrative and aesthetic quality as well as its extraordinary characterization of a village community in Germany at the beginning of the 20th century."
The film, which is set in rural Protestant Germany in the years leading up to the World War I, recounts a sequence of disturbing events which topple the pillars of propriety upon which the village stands.
Speaking after the jury's announcement, Producer Stefan Arndt, said he had seldom been so pleased about a committee's decision. "We will now do everything to convince the Americans of our wonderful film."
In Austria, however, the German choice was criticized. Though Haneke is Austrian, the film was a co-production between both countries. It was on the Austrian jury's list of films to consider, but they have not yet convened.
Austria claims right to nomination
"In my opinion, the film can only be submitted by Austria," Martin Schweighofer, director of the Austrian Film Commission, told APA news agency Thursday.
He added, however, that there may have been tactical reason for entering the film from Germany, as several Austrian films have been nominated for Oscars in recent years - including last year's winner "The Counterfeiters."
"The White Band," which fought off competition from ten other films to become Germany's representative, has already proven its ability to win awards. It made a deep impression in Cannes this year and came away with the prestigious Golden Palm.
How well Haneke's drama, which has no musical score, will fare further in its bid for an Oscar will not be known for some time.
As many as one hundred countries are expected to submit films for the much coveted 2010 trophy, but the Academy will not name the five nominees to go forward for the final selection until the start of February next year. The Oscars ceremony will be held in March.
Author: Tamsin Walker
Editor: Kate Bowen