“THE GROUND BENEATH OUR FEET” SELECTED AS ICELAND’S OSCAR SUBMISSION. CINEMATOGRAPHY BY WOJCIECH STAROŃ
Yrsa Roca Fannberg’s documentary “The Ground Beneath Our Feet” has been selected as Iceland’s submission for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. The film was shot by Polish cinematographer Wojciech Staroń, with Staroń Film serving as a co-producer.
Set at the Grund nursing home in Reykjavík, the film offers an intimate and deeply human portrait of people approaching the final stage of life. With remarkable sensitivity, Yrsa Roca Fannberg observes the residents’ everyday routines, fleeting memories and quiet moments, creating a story about ageing, memory, closeness and a lasting love of life.
The Icelandic selection committee described the film as an exceptionally well-made, personal and moving piece of cinema. The committee also praised its understated yet powerful form, noting that while it is a film about the final steps of life, it is no less a film about life itself.
The documentary is directed by Yrsa Roca Fannberg and produced by Hanna Björk Valsdóttir of Akkeri Films. Wojciech Staroń is the film’s cinematographer, while Staroń Film is among its co-producers. “The Ground Beneath Our Feet” has already travelled widely on the international festival circuit, receiving critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Iceland’s selection marks the beginning of the film’s next stage in the Oscar race. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will announce the 15-film shortlist for Best International Feature Film on 15 December 2026, with the official nominations for the 99th Academy Awards to follow on 21 January 2027.