The Czech Film and Television Academy has officially chosen Klára Tasovská’s documentary, “I’m Not Everything I Want to Be,” as the country’s contender for Best International Feature at the 98th Academy Awards. This groundbreaking documentary, which made its debut at last year’s Berlinale and garnered the Czech Lion award for Best Documentary this year, tells the compelling story of photographer Libuse Jarcovjáková. Known for her fearless artistry, Jarcovjáková documented Prague’s underground scene during the 1980s before seeking refuge in West Berlin.
Through a rich tapestry of Jarcovjáková’s personal diaries and a treasure trove of analog photographs, Tasovská vividly chronicles her life journey—from the vibrant dissident art circles of communist Czechoslovakia to high-fashion shoots in Tokyo.
Notably, this Oscar selection marks a new milestone for the Czech Academy, as it is the first time the candidate was chosen through a two-round voting process. From an initial shortlist of three films—”Broken Voices,” “Caravan,” and “I’m Not Everything I Want to Be”—the latter emerged victorious, selected by 194 eligible academy members.
Last year, the Czech Republic’s entry, Jirí Mádl’s “Waves,” made it to the Oscars’ international feature shortlist but unfortunately did not receive a nomination. Historically, the Czech Republic has celebrated three wins in this prestigious category, including Jan Sverák’s “Kolya” (1996) and, during the Czechoslovak era, “The Shop on Main Street” (1965) and Jirí Menzel’s “Closely Watched Trains” (1966). The last Czech film nominated was Ondrej Trojan’s “Zelary” in 2003.
Mark your calendars! The Academy will unveil the 15-film international feature shortlist on December 16, with nominations set to be announced on January 22. The Oscars ceremony will take place on March 15 in Los Angeles.
