The anticipation surrounding the 2026 Oscars builds as nominations for the 98th Academy Awards are set to be unveiled. With filmmakers working tirelessly and audiences buzzing, speculation intensifies about what films will feature prominently in key categories.
2026 Oscar Predictions: Key Categories
Several films are gaining traction in predictions for best picture. Contenders include:
- “Bugonia”
- “Frankenstein”
- “Hamnet”
- “It Was Just an Accident”
- “Marty Supreme”
- “One Battle After Another”
- “The Secret Agent”
- “Sentimental Value”
- “Sinners”
- “Train Dreams”
There is buzz about the potential for surprises, such as “Weapons,” while some high-profile sequels like “Wicked: For Good” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash” may face snubs due to lackluster receptions.
International Feature Representation
The Academy’s international membership allows for a broader range of nominations. Last year featured two international films in the best picture category, including “Anatomy of a Fall.” This year, possibilities include:
- “It Was Just an Accident” (France)
- “The Secret Agent” (Brazil)
- “Sentimental Value” (Norway)
Director Predictions
Prominent directors expected to vie for the nomination include:
- Paul Thomas Anderson, “One Battle After Another”
- Ryan Coogler, “Sinners”
- Jafar Panahi, “It Was Just an Accident”
- Josh Safdie, “Marty Supreme”
- Chloé Zhao, “Hamnet”
Panahi’s film is particularly notable for its themes of resistance against oppression, indicating a strong chance for a nomination.
Actor and Actress Predictions
Front-runners for best actor include:
- Timothée Chalamet, “Marty Supreme”
- Leonardo DiCaprio, “One Battle After Another”
- Ethan Hawke, “Blue Moon”
- Michael B. Jordan, “Sinners”
- Wagner Moura, “The Secret Agent”
For best actress, the contenders are:
- Jessie Buckley, “Hamnet”
- Rose Byrne, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You”
- Chase Infiniti, “One Battle After Another”
- Renate Reinsve, “Sentimental Value”
- Emma Stone, “Bugonia”
Supporting Roles and Screenplays
In the supporting actor category, nominees could include:
- Benicio Del Toro, “One Battle After Another”
- Jacob Elordi, “Frankenstein”
- Paul Mescal, “Hamnet”
- Sean Penn, “One Battle After Another”
- Stellan Skarsgård, “Sentimental Value”
Prominent contenders for original screenplay include:
- “It Was Just an Accident,” Jafar Panahi
- “Marty Supreme,” Josh Safdie and Ronald Bronstein
- “Sinners,” Ryan Coogler
International Feature and Animated Film
The international feature film category may showcase:
- “It Was Just an Accident”
- “The Secret Agent”
- “Sentimental Value”
For animated feature, predictions lean toward:
- “KPop Demon Hunters”
- “Zootopia 2”
- “Little Amélie or the Character of Rain”
As the awards season progresses, the landscape continues to shift. Watch for the nomination announcements to clarify the competitive field as the Oscars approach.
