Culture
Thai Film '9 Temples to Heaven' Selected for 99th Academy Awards
The Thai documentary '9 Temples to Heaven' has been chosen as Thailand's official entry for the 99th Academy Awards, following its domestic theatrical release.
According to Khaosod Online, the Thai film '9 Temples to Heaven' (9 วัด สู่สวรรค์) has been officially selected to represent Thailand in the race for the 99th Academy Awards. The film, which explores the cultural practice of visiting nine temples for merit-making, follows the journey of a single family.
Directed by Sompot Chidgasornpongse, the project was a long-term endeavor, taking nine years to complete. It is a collaborative production involving At A Time Pictures and Kick the Machine Films from Thailand, with international co-production support from E&W Films (Singapore) and petit chaos (France). The film is produced by Kritsada Khamyang and Apichatpong Weerasethakul.
For residents and travelers in Thailand, the film offers a cinematic look into local spiritual traditions and the significance of temple-hopping, a common practice in Thai Buddhism. The movie officially premiered in Thai cinemas on September 17, 2026. While the film has secured its spot as the national representative, its ultimate success in the Oscar nomination process remains to be determined. Those interested in Thai contemporary cinema may find this a significant cultural touchstone to explore.
