**Cyprus Selects ‘Hold Onto Me’ for Oscars**
Cyprus has officially chosen Myrsini Aristidou’s film "Hold Onto Me" as its entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the upcoming 99th Academy Awards. This decision was made by a seven-member National Nomination Committee, which evaluated various submissions in line with the established rules and procedures of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, as confirmed by the deputy ministry of culture.
"Hold Onto Me" features a talented cast including Christos Passalis, Maria Petrova, Aulona Loupa, Jenny Sallo, Nikolas Metaxas, and Achilleas Grammatikopoulos. The film has already garnered significant recognition, winning several awards at various film festivals. Notably, it received the Audience Award at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, three awards at the Cyprus Film Days Festival, and was honored as Best Film at the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival. Maria Petrova, one of the film's stars, has also been recognized for her acting with awards from international festivals.
The narrative of "Hold Onto Me" centers around 11-year-old Iris, who is confronted with the return of her estranged father, Aris, as he comes back to attend his father’s funeral. Driven by a desire to connect with him, Iris discovers Aris living in solitude at an old shipyard. Their subsequent encounter leads to a transformative relationship that impacts both characters significantly.
The 99th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on March 14, 2027. As Cyprus prepares to showcase "Hold Onto Me" on this prestigious international platform, the film's selection reflects the country's commitment to promoting its cinematic talent and storytelling on a global stage.