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Saim Sadiq’s Joyland has been nominated for the 95th Academy Awards. The film is Pakistan’s first nomination for an Oscar in the International Feature Film category. Joyland, starring Alina Khan, Ali Junejo, Rasti Farooq, Sarwat Gilani, Salman Peerzada, and Sania Saeed, was announced in September as Pakistan’s official submission for the 95th edition of the world’s most prestigious film awards.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the shortlists for the 2023 Academy Awards on Tuesday, which include documentary and international features, as well as a documentary short subject, makeup, hairstyling, original score, original song, animated short, live-action short, sound and visual effects.
Last Film Show, India’s foreign submission, also made the cut, while RRR, another Indian film, entered the shortlist for its hit single Naatu Naatu. Malala Yousafzai, the film’s executive producer, expressed her excitement at Joyland’s selection while applauding Sadiq.
“I am very, incredibly thrilled for you and your entire team,” Malala Yousafzai said to Sadiq over the phone. “Behind the screen was everyone who was on the screen. You guys have done an amazing job! Being a part of this endeavor is a big honor for me. It’s an incredible time for all of the performers and for Pakistan!” She continued, “The squad must realize how proud everyone is of them.”
