The anticipation is palpable as the 98th Academy Awards nominations are set to be announced today, January 22, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. ET from the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Los Angeles. Hosted by actors Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman, the event promises to spotlight the films and performances that have captivated audiences and critics alike over the past year.
As the film industry eagerly awaits the announcements, several movies are already generating significant buzz. Among them, “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners” are expected to dominate the nominations, while potential surprises could come from international films and streaming giants.
The Front-Runners: “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners”
Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” is widely regarded as the frontrunner for Best Picture. The action-thriller has been praised for its compelling narrative and stellar performances, particularly by Leonardo DiCaprio and Chase Infiniti. The film is expected to secure nominations across major categories, including Best Director and multiple acting nods.
Meanwhile, Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners” is another strong contender. The vampire epic, featuring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role, has captured both critical acclaim and audience admiration. It is anticipated to receive nominations in categories such as Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor, alongside technical categories like Production Design and Cinematography.
International Films Making Waves
In recent years, the Academy has increasingly recognized international films, a trend that is expected to continue in 2026. Notable contenders include “Sentimental Value,” “The Secret Agent,” and “It Was Just an Accident.” These films are not only vying for Best International Feature Film but are also strong candidates for nominations in major categories.
“Sentimental Value” is a strong bet for a Best Picture nod, with Stellan Skarsgård a near lock for a Best Supporting Actor slot.
Streaming Services in the Spotlight
Streaming platforms continue to play a significant role in the Oscars race. Netflix, in particular, has two films in contention for Best Picture: “Frankenstein” and “Train Dreams.” While neither is expected to be a favorite for the top prize, they highlight the ongoing influence of streaming services in the film industry.
Jacob Elordi’s performance in “Frankenstein” is generating buzz in the Best Supporting Actor category, with critics praising his portrayal of the iconic monster.
Potential Surprises and Snubs
While some films are expected to dominate, others might face unexpected snubs. “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” despite its box office success, is unlikely to secure a Best Picture nomination, a departure from its predecessors’ achievements.
Noah Baumbach’s “Jay Kelly” and the sequel “Wicked: For Good” are also at risk of being overlooked despite initial expectations. The latter’s underwhelming critical reception and box office performance have dampened its Oscar prospects.
Looking Ahead to the Ceremony
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026, with Conan O’Brien returning as host. This year’s event will continue the trend of streaming availability, following last year’s inaugural broadcast on Hulu. In a significant shift, the Oscars will move exclusively to YouTube in 2029, marking the end of a decades-long partnership with ABC.
As the nominations are revealed today, the film industry will gain clarity on the key players in this year’s Oscars race. With a mix of expected front-runners and potential surprises, the stage is set for an exciting awards season.
