The gothic vampire period drama Sinners has emerged as the frontrunner at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, securing an impressive 17 nominations. Close on its heels is One Battle After Another, which garnered 14 nods. The nominations were announced today, highlighting a competitive year in both film and television.
Among the nominations for One Battle After Another are best picture, director, and actor for Michael B. Jordan. The film also received nods for supporting actress Wunmi Mosaku, as well as costume and production design. Despite its success, it fell short of the record 18 nominations achieved by Barbie two years ago.
Australian actor Jacob Elordi has been recognized with a nomination for best actor for his role in Frankenstein. Both Frankenstein and Hamnet received 11 nominations each, showcasing a strong international presence in this year’s lineup.
Television Triumphs and Historical Context
On the television front, Adolescence dominated, with its cast receiving nominations across multiple categories. This year marks the 31st edition of the Critics Choice Awards, an event historically known for its accuracy in predicting the Academy Award nominations. The awards are led by Warner Bros, which is on the verge of being acquired by Netflix, adding an intriguing layer to this year’s ceremony.
The winners will be unveiled at the Critics Choice Awards gala, hosted by Chelsea Handler on January 4 in Santa Monica. The event will be broadcast live on E! and USA Network, promising a night of celebration and anticipation.
Notable Nominations and Snubs
The list of nominees is a testament to the diverse range of talent in the industry. In the best picture category, films such as Bugonia, Frankenstein, and Hamnet stand out alongside Sinners and One Battle After Another. The best actress category features talents like Jessie Buckley for Hamnet and Emma Stone for Bugonia.
However, the nominations were not without controversy. Critics have pointed out the notable absence of Cynthia Erivo, who starred as Elphaba in Wicked. Despite the film’s inclusion in the best picture category, Erivo was left off the list in six slots, sparking discussions about the selection process.
Key Categories and Predictions
In the best director category, Ryan Coogler for Sinners and Paul Thomas Anderson for One Battle After Another are among the top contenders. The best original screenplay sees competition from names like Noah Baumbach and Emily Mortimer for Jay Kelly, and Ryan Coogler for Sinners.
The best adapted screenplay category includes Paul Thomas Anderson for One Battle After Another and Guillermo del Toro for Frankenstein. These nominations reflect the critical acclaim and anticipation surrounding these films.
Expert Opinions and Industry Impact
According to industry experts, the Critics Choice Awards serve as a bellwether for the Oscars. Joey Berlin, CEO of the Critics Choice Awards, emphasized the credibility of the voters, stating,
“The critics and entertainment reporters who vote are the most informed and reliable in the business.”
As the awards approach, the industry is abuzz with speculation about potential winners and the implications for the Oscars. The nominations highlight a year of exceptional storytelling and performances, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable awards season.
As the gala draws near, all eyes will be on the Critics Choice Awards to see which films and performances will take home the coveted trophies and how these outcomes might influence the upcoming Academy Awards.
