The 2026 Oscars nominations have arrived, and they confirm one thrilling truth: cinema isn’t just surviving, it’s thriving. A remarkable number of exceptional films battled for recognition, culminating in a historic moment – Ryan Coogler’sSinnersshattering all previous records with a staggering 16 nominations.
This unprecedented achievement eclipses the long-held records of classics likeAll About EveandTitanic, relegating them to second place with 14 nominations each. Yet, despiteSinners’commanding lead, the race for the ultimate prize remains fiercely open. The path to victory is far from certain.
WhileSinnerscurrently holds the advantage, it hasn’t always been the frontrunner. Films likeOne Battle After Anotherhave previously captured critical acclaim and awards. Now, with 13 nominations, it remains a formidable contender. Close behind areSentimental Value,Frankenstein, andMarty Supreme, each boasting nine nominations, andHamnetwith eight.
This wealth of exceptional filmmaking has, however, meant some disappointments. Early favorites likeThe Smashing MachineandA House of Dynamitereceived minimal recognition, a tough blow considering the talent involved. Even Adam Sandler’s lauded performance inJay Kellywent unnoticed by Academy voters.
The nominations also revealed a heartwarming trend: a willingness to recognize long-standing contributions. Ethan Hawke secured a best actor nod forBlue Moon, a first for the celebrated actor, and Kate Hudson received her first nomination in 25 years forSong Sung Blue. These acknowledgements felt genuinely deserved.
While personal preferences differ – some favored the intensity ofSinnersover the more uneven moments inOne Battle After Another– the quality across the board is undeniable.Sentimental Valueis a quietly brilliant drama,Frankensteinlives up to its opulent promise,Marty Supremedelivers an exhilarating experience, andHamnetis a profoundly moving story.
Currently, Jessie Buckley’s performance inHamnetappears to be the most secure win, but beyond that, the outcome remains tantalizingly unpredictable. Despite its record-breaking nominations,Sinnerscould still leave the ceremony with surprisingly few awards, a testament to the fierce competition.
The snubs were also notable. Paul Mescal’s absence from the best supporting actor category for his portrayal of Shakespeare inHamnetwas a surprise, despite previous recognition from other awards bodies. However, his loss paved the way for Delroy Lindo to finally receive the recognition he deserves for his powerful performance inSinners, a long-overdue acknowledgement of his talent.
Similarly, newcomer Chase Infiniti missed out on a best actress nomination forOne Battle After Another, perhaps with the understanding that her time will come. Jeremy Allen White’s sensitive performance also went unacknowledged, and the complete shutout ofWicked: For Good, including Ariana Grande’s performance, sparked considerable disappointment.
History reminds us that a multitude of nominations doesn’t guarantee victory.The Colour Purple(1985) holds the unfortunate record for the most nominations without a single win, while films likeThe FavouriteandJokersecured only a few awards despite their numerous nods. Even the belovedThe Shawshank Redemptionwas largely ignored by the Academy.
The nominations also highlighted a concerning trend: the potential overlooking of films that challenge conventional narratives. Mona Fastvold’sThe Testament of Ann Leeand Mary Bronstein’sIf I Had Legs I’d Kick You, both critically acclaimed and deeply resonant, received limited recognition, underscoring a possible reluctance to embrace complex, “real” female stories.
Despite the snubs and uncertainties, the excitement surrounding the 2026 Oscars is palpable.Sinnershas undeniably captured the attention of the Academy, but the outcome remains far from certain. The Bafta Film Awards nominations are yet to come, adding another layer of anticipation to this thrilling awards season.
The hope is that the night doesn’t see films likeAvatar: Fire and AshorF1unexpectedly triumph over the deserving contenders. The Oscars will unfold on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre, broadcast live to audiences worldwide.
