Holly Patrick
Thursday 22 January 2026 13:30 GMT
The film industry is abuzz as the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards have been officially revealed in a live announcement on Thursday, 22 January. This sets the stage for one of the most anticipated events in the entertainment calendar, with the ceremony scheduled for 15 March at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
Leading Contenders Emerge
As anticipated, the period drama Hamnet, featuring standout performances by Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, and the epic One Battle After Another, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, are poised to dominate the nominations list. Both films have generated significant critical acclaim and are expected to secure multiple nods across various categories, potentially making this a highly competitive awards season.
Surprises and New Categories
Adding to the excitement, Ryan Coogler's vampire horror film Sinners is also projected to earn several nominations, showcasing its impact on the genre. In a historic move, the Academy has introduced a new category for casting this year, marking the first time this crucial aspect of filmmaking will be formally recognised at the Oscars. This change could influence the nominations landscape, particularly for ensemble-driven films.
Studio Records and Industry Shifts
The nominations could see Warner Bros. achieve a record-breaking haul, with both One Battle After Another and Sinners contributing to its tally. This comes at a pivotal moment as the studio prepares for its impending sale to streaming giant Netflix, highlighting the evolving dynamics between traditional film studios and digital platforms. The current record for most nominations is jointly held by classics such as All About Eve (1950), Titanic (1997), and La La Land (2016), setting a high bar for this year's contenders.
Ceremony Details and Broadcast
The Oscars ceremony will be hosted once again by the acclaimed Conan O'Brien, ensuring a blend of humour and gravitas for the evening. The event will be televised live on ABC and streamed on Hulu, allowing audiences worldwide to tune in and celebrate the best in cinematic achievement. With the nominations now public, speculation and analysis will intensify as the film community and fans alike await the final awards night.
