In a historic moment for Kollywood, the Tamil-language film Tourist Family has officially qualified for consideration in the Best Picture category at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026). The film is among a select group of 201 feature films globally to meet the Academy’s stringent eligibility requirements for the top prize.
Directed by debutant Abishan Jeevinth, the survival drama stars Sasikumar and Simran as members of a Sri Lankan Tamil family who illegally immigrate to India following the Sri Lankan economic crisis. The narrative, praised for its grounded and naturalistic portrayal of the migrant struggle, previously earned critical acclaim and the Best Film award at the Chennai International Film Festival.
To secure its spot on the Academy’s “Reminder List,” Tourist Family completed a qualifying theatrical run in the U.S. and met mandatory Representation and Inclusion Standards (RAISE). It joins other notable Indian contenders, including Rishabh Shetty’s Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 and Anupam Kher’s Tanvi The Great.
While inclusion on this list does not guarantee a nomination, it marks a significant milestone for independent Tamil cinema on the global stage. The final ten Best Picture nominees will be announced on January 22, 2026, ahead of the ceremony on March 15.
