The gothic vampire period drama Sinners has emerged as a dominant force in the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, securing an impressive 17 nominations. Close on its heels is One Battle After Another with 14 nods. The announcement underscores a competitive year in cinema, with Ryan Coogler’s Sinners earning accolades in categories such as Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan. Wunmi Mosaku also received recognition for her role as a supporting actress, alongside nominations for costume and production design.
Despite its success, One Battle After Another fell short of the record set by Barbie, which garnered 18 nominations two years ago. Meanwhile, Australia’s Jacob Elordi has been nominated for Best Actor for his performance in Frankenstein, which, along with Hamnet, received 11 nominations each. In the television category, Adolescence made a significant impact, with its cast securing multiple nominations.
Historical Context and Industry Impact
The Critics Choice Awards, now in their 31st year, have long been regarded as a reliable predictor of the Academy Award nominations. The awards, led by Warner Bros and soon to be under Netflix’s umbrella, continue to reflect the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. This year’s nominations highlight a diverse array of films and performances, showcasing both established talents and emerging stars.
The ceremony, hosted by Chelsea Handler, will take place on January 4 in Santa Monica, with a live broadcast on E! and USA Network. As anticipation builds, industry insiders and fans alike are eager to see which nominees will ultimately triumph.
Key Nominations and Notable Snubs
The list of nominees features a mix of expected contenders and surprising omissions. Among the films vying for Best Picture are Bugonia, Frankenstein, Hamnet, Jay Kelly, Marty Supreme, One Battle After Another, Sentimental Value, Sinners, Train Dreams, and Wicked: For Good.
In the Best Actress category, nominees include Jessie Buckley for Hamnet, Rose Byrne for If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, Chase Infiniti for One Battle After Another, Renate Reinsve for Sentimental Value, Amanda Seyfried for The Testament of Ann Lee, and Emma Stone for Bugonia.
Critics have noted the absence of Cynthia Erivo from the list, despite her acclaimed performance as Elphaba in Wicked. This snub has sparked discussions about the selection process and the criteria used by the critics and entertainment reporters who vote. According to Critics Choice Awards CEO Joey Berlin, these voters are “the most informed and reliable in the business.”
Expert Opinions and Future Implications
Industry experts suggest that the strong showing by Sinners could signal a shift towards more genre films receiving critical acclaim. The film’s blend of gothic and period elements, coupled with a strong narrative and performances, has resonated with both audiences and critics. Similarly, the success of One Battle After Another highlights the enduring appeal of historical dramas with contemporary themes.
Looking ahead, the results of the Critics Choice Awards could influence the strategies of studios and filmmakers as they prepare for the upcoming Oscar season. The recognition of diverse storytelling and innovative filmmaking may encourage more projects that push the boundaries of traditional genres.
Complete List of Nominees
For those interested in the full scope of this year’s nominations, here is a selection of key categories:
Best Actor
- Timothée Chalamet – Marty Supreme
- Leonardo DiCaprio – One Battle After Another
- Joel Edgerton – Train Dreams
- Ethan Hawke – Blue Moon
- Michael B. Jordan – Sinners
- Wagner Moura – The Secret Agent
Best Supporting Actress
- Elle Fanning – Sentimental Value
- Ariana Grande – Wicked: For Good
- Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas – Sentimental Value
- Amy Madigan – Weapons
- Wunmi Mosaku – Sinners
- Teyana Taylor – One Battle After Another
The nominations reflect a broad spectrum of talent and creativity, setting the stage for an exciting awards season. As the industry continues to evolve, the Critics Choice Awards remain a vital platform for recognizing excellence in film and television.
