Films from 92 countries and regions were eligible in the category.
According to the deadline.com website, EO is “a vision of modern Europe seen through the eyes of a donkey on a stoic journey through a world where disaster and despair alternate with unexpected bliss."
The film is “an exemplary, fresh and radiant piece of work from an 84-year-old director who has not lost his energy or own way of seeing things."
EO has won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Festival, Best Original Score at the European Film Awards, Best International Film from the New York Film Critics Circle, and awards from the Los Angeles Film Critics’ Association for Best Film Not in the English Language and for Best Cinematography.
Skolimowski is one of Poland’s most internationally renowned film directors. His credits include Identification Mark, Barrier, Walkover, Hands Up, Deep End, Four Nights with Anna, and Essential Killing.
The final nominations for the 95th Oscars will be announced on January 24, and the awards ceremony is due to be held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 12.
(mk/gs)