In a bold and resonant move, Chile has officially selected The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo—a hauntingly poetic debut from director Diego Céspedes—as its submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.
“This film may carry my name, but it truly belongs to a generation of artists around the world who dare to challenge conventions and imagine differently,” Céspedes concurred.
In addition to clinching the prestigious Un Certain Regard honor at Cannes, The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo has carved an impressive path across the global festival circuit. The film earned the Sebastiane Latino Award at the San Sebastián Film Festival, was celebrated with both Best First Feature and the Special Jury Prize at the Lima Film Festival, and captured the critics’ FIPRESCI Award at the Brussels International Film Festival—solidifying its status as one of the year’s most acclaimed queer debuts.
Fresh off its Grand Prix win in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section, the film has captivated global audiences with its tender yet piercing portrayal of queer identity, superstition, and resilience. Set in a remote desert mining town during the early 1980s, the story follows 11-year-old Lidia and her beloved queer family, led by her flamboyant parent, Flamingo. As the AIDS epidemic begins to cast its shadow, the town spirals into paranoia—believing the disease can be spread through a mere glance or romantic affection between men. Lidia, undeterred by fear and folklore, sets out to uncover the truth behind the hysteria.
Produced by Giancarlo Nasi of Quijote Films, the film will also compete for Best Ibero-American Film at Spain’s prestigious Goya Awards. Its North American premiere is slated for September 9 at the Toronto International Film Festival, further cementing its position as one of the year’s most talked-about international titles.
“This is not just an awards campaign—it’s a small act of resistance,” said Nasi, reflecting on the film’s selection by over 400 members of the Chilean Film Academy. The decision marks a significant moment for Chilean cinema, especially as The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo triumphed over strong contenders, including Sebastián Lelio’s “The Wave” (“La Ola”), from the Oscar-winning director of A Fantastic Woman.
“It’s our hope that the Academy recognizes the same emotional force and timely relevance that has captivated viewers across global festivals. Speaking as an Academy member in Los Angeles, I’m confident this film will evoke laughter, empathy, and a deeper awareness of the urgent themes it so beautifully explores,” he added.
“As we enter the Oscar race, I hope the Academy feels the same emotional and political resonance that has already touched audiences worldwide. In a moment when visibility and representation face growing threats, this film stands as a testament to cinema’s power—to stir empathy and uplift voices that demand to be heard,” he said.
Céspedes’ film has been praised for its emotional depth, absurdist humor, and lyrical storytelling. Variety described it as “gentle, funny, passionate and occasionally absurdist… packing an enormous emotional punch”. But beyond accolades, the film stands as a testament to the power of queer storytelling and the courage to confront societal myths.