Oscar Nominations: A Mixed Bag for Films in 2026
The 2026 Oscar nominations have produced a mix of jubilation and disappointment among filmmakers, highlighting the unpredictable nature of awards season. While the film Sinners stands out with a remarkable 16 nominations, others like Wicked: For Good found themselves empty-handed despite early box office success.
Why It Matters
The Oscars are a crucial indicator of the film industry’s landscape, showcasing talent and narratives that resonate with audiences globally. The nominations often set the tone for future projects and careers, making this year’s selections particularly significant amid fierce competition.
Key Developments
- Sinners leads with a record 16 nominations.
- Wicked: For Good failed to secure any nominations after receiving ten the previous year.
- Paul Mescal’s performance in Hamnet was overlooked for a Best Supporting Actor nomination.
- Chase Infiniti, expected to be nominated for her role in One Battle After Another, did not make the cut for Best Actress.
- Actors Delroy Lindo and Wunmi Mosaku received nominations for their roles in Sinners.
- Sentimental Value received nine nominations but was omitted from the Best Achievement in Casting category.
- Frankenstein garnered nine nominations, although Guillermo del Toro was not nominated for Best Director.
- F1, starring Damson Idris and Brad Pitt, made it into the Best Picture race.
Full Report
Sinners Makes History
This year’s Oscars have proven to be a monumental occasion for Sinners, which has garnered 16 nominations, catapulting it to the forefront of this year’s awards conversation.
Wicked Loses Momentum
Despite a strong box office performance, Wicked: For Good was shut out of the nominations entirely, a stark contrast to its ten nods last year. The absence of leads Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande from the Best Actress categories further exacerbated the disappointment for fans.
Overlooked Performances
Paul Mescal did not receive a nomination for his portrayal of playwright William Shakespeare in Hamnet. Although he was placed in the Best Supporting Actor category, some believed his votes may have been split between that category and Best Actor. Similar sentiments accompanied the exclusion of Chase Infiniti, who was anticipated to shine after her Golden Globes nomination for Best Actress, leaving her co-stars Leonardo DiCaprio and others in the running instead.
Surprise Nominations
In a surprising twist, Delroy Lindo and Wunmi Mosaku received nominations for their roles in Sinners. While pundits had not predicted Lindo’s nod for his portrayal of musician Delta Slim, Mosaku’s recent ascent in the awards conversation positioned her as a strong contender.
The Unexpected Omission of Sentimental Value
Sentimental Value received nine nominations, including a range of acting recognitions, but notably did not register in the new Best Achievement in Casting category, raising eyebrows among industry observers.
Frankenstein and F1 Make Their Mark
While Frankenstein secured nine nominations, acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro surprisingly did not receive a nod for Best Director. Meanwhile, the summer blockbuster F1 managed a spot in the prestigious Best Picture race, although its chances for a win remain uncertain.
Context & Previous Events
The awards season builds on the critical and audience responses to films, particularly as they debut at events like the Golden Globes, which can influence nominations. Last year’s release of the first installment of the Wicked franchise had set the stage for high expectations, leaving the empty nominations this year even more pronounced.
