Belgium has officially selected Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne’s latest feature, Young Mothers, as its submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards.
Young Mothers, the Dardenne brothers’ 13th feature, premiered in competition at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Best Screenplay award alongside the Prize of the Ecumenical Jury. The film explores the intertwined lives of five young mothers and their children living in a support center in Liège, delivering a gritty yet empathetic portrait of their struggles and resilience. The cast includes Lucie Laruelle, Babette Verbeek, and Elsa Houben, among others, showcasing a strong ensemble led by nuanced performances.
The production, a collaboration between Les Films du Fleuve, Archipel 35, and The Reunion, was filmed in Banneux, Wallonia, with backing from the regional Wallimage fund. Its theatrical release in Belgium took place on June 4, 2025, satisfying the Academy’s eligibility window for international submissions. This marks the fifth time that Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne represent Belgium for the Oscar submission, underscoring their prominent status in European cinema.
Industry sources indicate that the selection of Young Mothers positions Belgium strongly amid a competitive field of international contenders. The film’s Cannes recognition and the Dardennes’ established reputation make it a notable entry in a year where the international feature race is marked by unpredictability and critical acclaim. With other countries unveiling their submissions, Belgium’s choice aligns with a broader trend of highlighting socially conscious narratives at the Academy Awards.
According to insiders, the film’s authentic storytelling and thematic focus on young motherhood against socio-economic challenges bring a compelling voice to the Oscars race. It reflects the Dardennes’ continued commitment to socially engaged cinema, elevating Young Mothers as a key title to watch for the 2026 ceremony.