Another Pakistani film has been selected for the Oscars 2023 nomination, following the queer-themed film Joyland. The Oscar shortlists for 10 categories were released by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Tuesday.
As Far As they can run, a Pakistani short documentary film has also been nominated for an Oscar for Best Documentary Short Film in addition to the Saim Sadiq-directed “Joyland.” In spite of frequently inhumane treatment and exclusion by their communities, three children with intellectual disabilities in rural Pakistan manage to find some acceptance and a place in society through sports. As Far As They Can Run, directed by Iranian-American filmmaker Tanaz Eshaghian, tells their story.
In Pakistan, three young adults enroll in a marathon for youth with disabilities in an effort to change attitudes in their rural community. The short film’s producer tweeted about the achievement and said, “Thrilled to make the #Oscars2023 non-fiction shortlist.” At the 23rd annual Woodstock Film Festival, As Far as They Can Run also won top nonfiction prizes.
The American’s Largest Documentary Festival, DOC NYC, presented the renowned Short List: Shorts Directing Award to the documentary short film. In support of the crew of the short film, the screenwriter of the upcoming picture What’s Love Got to do with also tweeted. This is really exciting, she wrote. The Oscars have shortlisted As Far As They Can Run.