Canada Selects Turkish-Language Thriller “The Things You Kill” for 2026 Oscars Thriller “The Things You Kill” for 2026 Oscars

Iranian-Canadian director Alireza Khatami’s latest film will represent Canada. “The Things You Kill” is Canada’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film Oscar. The selection marks a significant moment for the country’s diverse film industry.

The psychological revenge thriller was chosen by Telefilm Canada’s selection jury. Its nomination highlights Canada’s commitment to showcasing multicultural stories. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Khatami described the selection as a profound affirmation of his home.

Selection Process Overcame Initial Hurdles

Telefilm Canada initially disqualified the film for its international co-production status. The film is a co-production between Canada, France, Poland, and Turkey. Khatami successfully argued that Academy rules allowed for such collaborations.

The director researched the Oscars’ international feature category regulations. He presented his findings to the selection committee. The jury ultimately voted to include the film in Canada’s submission.

A Story of Patriarchy and Generational Trauma

The film critiques patriarchal structures through a family drama. It follows a professor who seeks vengeance for his mother’s death. He coerces his gardener to murder his abusive father.

Khatami deliberately subverts expectations of Iranian arthouse cinema. He builds tension slowly through complex family dynamics. The narrative mixes realism with surreal fantasy elements.

The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. It won the Directing Award in the World Cinema Dramatic competition. This recognition helped bolster its profile ahead of Oscar consideration.

Production Journey from Iran to Turkey

“The Things You Kill” was originally planned for production in Iran. Iranian censors objected to the film’s central theme. They specifically opposed the son killing the father narrative.

Khatami refused to compromise his artistic vision. He moved the entire production to Turkey after six years of development. This was not his first experience relocating a film project.

His debut feature, “Oblivion Verses,” was also moved from Iran. That film was ultimately produced in Chile with Spanish dialogue. Both experiences reflect the director’s adaptability.

Cultural Impact on Canadian Cinema

The selection signals a broadening of Canada’s cinematic identity. It offers a Turkish-language alternative to typical English and French productions. The move has inspired other BIPOC filmmakers in Canada.

Khatami reports receiving emotional messages from diverse creators. They never believed Canada would select a non-official language film. Now they feel new hope for their own projects.

The film’s U.S. release begins November 14 via Cineverse. Its theatrical run will introduce American audiences to this unique Canadian entry. The Oscar campaign will continue through the awards season.

The selection of “The Things You Kill” as Canada’s Oscar submission represents a milestone for inclusive storytelling. This Turkish-language thriller breaks new ground for the country’s international film entries. Its journey to the Oscars reflects the evolving face of Canadian cinema.

Thought you’d like to know

What is “The Things You Kill” about?

It is a psychological thriller about a professor seeking revenge for his mother’s death. The story explores patriarchy and generational trauma within a family. The film blends family drama with surreal revenge elements.

Why was the film almost disqualified?

Telefilm Canada initially questioned its multi-country co-production status. The film involves production companies from Canada, France, Poland, and Turkey. Director Alireza Khatami successfully argued that Academy rules permitted such collaborations.

Where was the film originally supposed to be shot?

Production was initially planned for Iran with a full cast and crew ready. Iranian censors objected to the central plot involving patricide. The director moved the entire production to Turkey instead.

What award did the film win at Sundance?

“The Things You Kill” won the Directing Award in the World Cinema Dramatic competition. This recognition came during its premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. The award helped establish its credibility ahead of Oscar consideration.

How does this selection impact Canadian cinema?

It represents a significant step toward reflecting Canada’s multicultural reality. The selection of a Turkish-language film expands beyond traditional English and French productions. It provides inspiration for other immigrant and BIPOC filmmakers in Canada.