The anticipation is palpable as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences prepares to unveil the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards. The announcement, set to take place at 8:30 a.m. ET from the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Los Angeles, will be presented by actors Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman, with American Sign Language interpreters ensuring accessibility for all viewers.
This year’s nominations are particularly significant as the film industry continues to rebound from the pandemic, with a diverse slate of films vying for the coveted Oscar statuettes. Among the contenders, several films have already generated significant buzz, while others are poised to surprise.
The Front Runners: Expected Nominees and Surprises
Leading the pack is Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another”, an action-thriller epic that has captivated audiences and critics alike. The film is widely expected to dominate the nominations, with potential nods in Best Picture, Best Director, and several acting categories, including performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Teyana Taylor.
Another strong contender is Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners”, a vampire epic that has been a hit both critically and commercially. The film is anticipated to secure nominations in major categories such as Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan’s dual role performance.
International Films Making Their Mark
The international film category is particularly competitive this year, with films like “Sentimental Value” and “The Secret Agent” leading the charge. These films are not only vying for Best International Feature but are also expected to break into other categories, showcasing the increasing global influence on the Oscars.
“Sentimental Value” looks a strong bet for a Best Picture nod, with Stellan Skarsgård a near lock for a Best Supporting Actor slot.
Streaming Giants in the Oscar Race
Streaming platforms continue to play a significant role in the Oscars landscape. Netflix, in particular, is hoping to finally clinch a Best Picture win with films like “Frankenstein” and “Train Dreams”. While these films are expected to earn nominations, they face stiff competition from traditional studios.
Netflix’s best chance for a win might come from Jacob Elordi’s performance in “Frankenstein,” which is tipped for a Best Supporting Actor nomination.
Potential Snubs and Surprises
Despite its box office success, “Avatar: Fire and Ash” is unlikely to replicate the awards success of its predecessors, with expectations limited to technical categories like Visual Effects. Similarly, “Wicked: For Good” may struggle to capture the magic of its predecessor, with its Oscar hopes dwindling following a lukewarm reception.
“Avatar: Fire and Ash” might be ruling the box office, having recently ticked over $1.3 billion, but its Oscar outlooks are looking pretty darn remote.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the Oscars
As the nominations are announced, the focus will shift to the upcoming ceremony scheduled for March 15, 2026. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the event promises to be a star-studded affair, continuing the tradition of celebrating cinematic excellence. This year marks a significant transition, as the Oscars will eventually move to exclusive streaming on YouTube from 2029, a move that signifies the evolving nature of media consumption.
As the film industry eagerly awaits the nominations, the 2026 Oscars promise to be a reflection of the diverse and dynamic landscape of modern cinema, with new voices and stories taking center stage.
