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‘Gleason’ makes first cut for Oscar consideration.

Former New Orleans Saints safety Steve Gleason, left, appears with his son Rivers in a scene from the documentary "Gleason." The film follows Gleason and his wife, Michel, into the maelstrom of ALS, or Lou Gehrigs disease, as the couple adjusts to their fluctuating reality and makes way for their son, Rivers. The film has made the shortlist for the Acadmey Awards in the documentary category. (Open Road Films)
Staff report

“Gleason,” the documentary that chronicles Spokane native Steve Gleason’s struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, has been included on a short list of nonfiction features that will potentially be up for Academy Awards next year.

Of the 145 film submissions made to the Academy’s documentary branch, 15 were deemed most eligible for Oscar consideration, and those selections will later be winnowed down to the five nominees for best documentary feature. Other titles on the short list include ESPN’s “O.J.: Made in America,” director Ava DuVernay’s Netflix production “13th” and “Weiner,” which chronicles Anthony Weiner’s failed mayoral campaign.

Gleason, a former football player for the New Orleans Saints, was diagnosed with ALS – also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease – in 2011. The documentary covers five years of his life as he battles the incurable condition.

Oscar nominations will be announced on Jan. 24, and the award ceremony will air on ABC on Feb. 26. “Gleason” is now available on DVD and all digital platforms.