In a proud moment for global cinema, Indian-origin filmmaker Alexandre Singh clinched the Best Live-Action Short Film award at the 98th Academy Awards for his thought-provoking French-language drama Two People Exchanging Saliva.
In a rare and historic twist, the award was shared in a tie with The Singers, directed by Sam A. Davis and Jack Piatt—marking one of the few ties in Oscar history. This achievement places Singh among the growing list of Indian-origin talents making a mark on the global stage.
Who Is Alexandre Singh? (Biography & Background)
Born in Bordeaux to an Indian father and French mother, Singh grew up in Manchester before studying fine art at the prestigious University of Oxford.
Now based in Brooklyn, Singh is known for blending visual art with cinematic storytelling, creating films that explore complex social and philosophical themes. His unique style has steadily earned him recognition across international film festivals.
About the Oscar-Winning Film Two People Exchanging Saliva
Co-directed with Natalie Musteata, the 36-minute short film presents a surreal dystopian world where even the most basic human intimacy is outlawed.
In this bizarre society:
- Physical affection is punishable by death
- People exchange slaps as currency
- Human relationships are tightly controlled
The film uses absurdity and dark humor to deliver a powerful commentary on social control, intimacy, and human behavior, making it both unsettling and deeply thought-provoking.
Rare Oscar Tie: A Historic Moment
The Best Live-Action Short Film category saw an extremely rare tie, with Two People Exchanging Saliva sharing the award with The Singers.
- This is only the 7th tie in Oscar history
- Ties occur when Academy voters give equal votes to two nominees
- Both films received exceptional global acclaim
Such moments highlight the diversity and strength of storytelling in contemporary cinema.
Important Facts
- The 98th Academy Awards honored films released in the previous year
- Short films are defined as films with a runtime of 40 minutes or less
- Oscar ties are extremely rare, with only seven recorded instances
- Alexandre Singh has Indian-French heritage and studied at Oxford
Artistic Vision & Previous Works
During his acceptance speech, Singh highlighted the power of art to influence society over time, reinforcing his belief in cinema as a tool for reflection and change.
Some of his notable earlier works include:
- The Appointment (2019)
- Plan large (2016)
His Oscar-winning film also premiered at the prestigious Telluride Film Festival, further cementing his reputation as a rising voice in global filmmaking.
Why This Win Matters
Singh’s Oscar victory is more than just a personal milestone—it reflects the growing global impact of Indian-origin creators in cinema. His success showcases how experimental storytelling and bold ideas can resonate across cultures and borders.
As the world of cinema evolves, filmmakers like Alexandre Singh are redefining narratives—proving that even the most unconventional stories can leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.