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Oscars: Denmark Selects May el-Toukhy’s Golden Lion Winner ‘Woman Unknown’ for International Feature Race
Denmark has selected May el-Toukhy’s “Woman Unknown” as its official submission for the Oscars’ international feature film category. The choice follows the film’s Golden Lion victory at the Venice Film Festival, increasing its profile ahead of the awards race.
Set in Copenhagen in May 1945, the film follows Marie, a maid preparing to marry her older employer while concealing a damaging secret. It also won Mathilde Arcel the Venice award for best actress and will screen at festivals including London and Busan; el-Toukhy becomes only the second Danish director to win Venice’s top prize, after Carl Th. Dreyer in 1955.
In short
- Denmark submits Venice winner “Woman Unknown” for the international feature Oscar.
- May el-Toukhy made history with her Golden Lion victory.
- The film stars Mathilde Arcel and opens in Denmark on 4 February.
Explained simply
The international feature film category recognises films made outside the United States, with each country choosing a film to submit. Denmark’s entry is therefore one step in a wider selection process; it does not guarantee a nomination or an Oscar.
“Woman Unknown” is directed by May el-Toukhy and stars Mathilde Arcel. Set in Copenhagen as the Second World War ends in May 1945, it follows Marie, a maid planning to marry her older employer while hiding a damaging secret.
The film’s Golden Lion is the top prize at the Venice Film Festival, one of the major international film festivals. That win has raised the film’s profile, while its Oscar submission puts Danish cinema in the international feature race.