The Academy Award for Best International Feature Film (formerly Best Foreign Language Film) has a clear all-time leader: Italy. As of 2024, Italy has won the award 14 times, more than any other nation. This dominance began in the post-WWII era with the rise of Italian Neorealism, including films like Vittorio De Sica's 'Shoeshine' and 'The Bicycle Thief.' Legendary director Federico Fellini holds the individual record for the most wins in this category, with four of his films taking home the statuette: 'La Strada,' 'Nights of Cabiria,' '8½,' and 'Amarcord.' France holds the record for the most nominations (41), but Italy remains the most successful in terms of actual wins. These awards helped bridge the gap between European art-house cinema and American audiences, cementing Italy's reputation as a powerhouse of global filmmaking.