The U.S. Embassy in Baku has congratulated Azerbaijani filmmaker Zaur Qasımlı after his film “Tağıyev: Neft” was officially accepted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) in Hollywood as Azerbaijan’s candidate for the 2026 Academy Awards.
The historical feature, centered on the legacy of Azerbaijani oil magnate Hacı Zeynalabdin Tağıyev, will now compete with more than 80 international films for a coveted nomination in the Best International Feature Film category.
According to the Embassy’s statement, finalists will be announced in Los Angeles on December 16, with the Embassy wishing the Azerbaijani submission “the best of luck” in the global competition.
The United States, the statement added, is proud to host the world’s most influential film industry, with Hollywood productions watched by hundreds of millions worldwide. The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026.
