The Czech Republic has selected Pepa Ljubojacki's documentary "If Pigeons Turned to Gold" as its entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards, chosen by the Czech Film and Television Academy. The film, shot over five years, follows the director's brother and two cousins whose addictions gradually destroy their relationships and homes, and it premiered at this year's Berlinale.

The Czech Academy praised the film's DIY aesthetic, describing how it weaves together diary footage, stylised memories, live photos and graphic collages to explore the causes and family impact of addiction. This year's submission window is the first under revised eligibility rules allowing non-English-language films to qualify by winning top honours at major festivals such as Berlin, Cannes, Sundance, Toronto and Venice. The International Oscar shortlist is due on 15 December, with full nominations following on 21 January 2027; last year's winner in the category was Joachim Trier's Norwegian film "Sentimental Value".