“Raqya” Chosen as Algeria’s Entry for International Oscar

Algeria has officially chosen the horror film "Raqya," directed by Yanni Koussim, as its contender for the Oscar for Best International Film. This selection for the 99th edition of the prestigious international awards highlights Algeria's cultural production and artistic talent on a global platform.

The film, categorized as horror, draws inspiration from the country's "Black Decade," a period between 1992 and 2002 marked by violent events between Islamist extremists and the state, which resulted in thousands of casualties. "Raqya" is the director's debut feature film and has previously garnered international attention with screenings at the 82nd Venice Film Festival and other international cinematic events.

The cast features actors Ali Namous, Akram Jegheim, Mostafa Djam, Hana Mansour, Lydia Hani, and Abdelkarim Derradji. The American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is expected to announce the films accepted into the first stage of the International Feature Film category in December, with the shortlist to follow in January 2027.