Canada Selects ‘The Things You Kill’ for Oscars 2024

Canada has officially selected the film The Things You Kill as its entry for the 2024 Oscars in the Best International Feature category. Directed by Alireza Khatami, the film has received significant acclaim, particularly during its presentation at the Sundance Film Festival.

Celebrating Diverse Voices in Film

In a statement regarding the selection, Khatami expressed his excitement, stating, “I am truly delighted that our film The Things You Kill has been selected to represent Canada at the Oscars.” He acknowledged the eight years of hard work that went into creating the film, emphasizing that this recognition makes those efforts feel worthwhile. Khatami also highlighted the importance of representation in the film industry, remarking, “What makes this moment especially meaningful to me is that Canada is making space for stories that BIPOC filmmakers have to share.”

Canada’s choice reflects a trend of supporting diverse narratives. Last year, the country nominated Universal Language, another film rooted in BIPOC experiences and Iranian culture. Similarly, in 2022, Zayne Akyyol‘s film Rojek was chosen as the official entry.

Storyline and Cast of ‘The Things You Kill’

The film, which is produced in both Turkish and Farsi, follows the story of a Turkish college professor grappling with the unresolved circumstances surrounding his mother’s death. As he navigates his emotional turmoil, he spirals into a dark quest for vengeance, ultimately persuading his gardener to assist him in committing murder.

The cast includes notable actors such as Ekin Koc, Erkan Kolçak Kostendil, Hazar Erguclu, and Ercan Kesal, all of whom contribute to the film’s gripping narrative.

With its selection, The Things You Kill aims not only to compete for an Oscar but also to shed light on the unique narratives that BIPOC filmmakers can bring to a global audience. As the film prepares for its Oscar journey, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of national cinema and the importance of diverse storytelling.