BBC Analysis: Key Highlights and Notable Omissions in 2026 Oscar Nominations

The 2026 Oscar nominations have been announced, with the 98th Academy Awards ceremony scheduled for March 15, 2026. Leading the pack is the vampire horror film Sinners, which set a new record with 16 nominations across various categories, breaking the previous high of 14 shared by classics like All About Eve, Titanic, and La La Land. Following closely is One Battle After Another, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, with 13 nods. Films such as Marty Supreme, Frankenstein, and Sentimental Value each received 9 nominations, while Hamnet earned 8. Best picture contenders also include Bugonia, F1 (which secured additional technical nominations), The Secret Agent, and Train Dreams. In acting categories, best actor nominees feature Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, and Wagner Moura. Best actress highlights Jessie Buckley as a strong favorite for Hamnet, alongside Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson, and Renate Reinsve. The nominations include notable international representation, with several non-English language performances recognized. However, several high-profile omissions sparked debate, including Paul Mescal’s absence in supporting actor for Hamnet and no nominations at all for the sequel Wicked: For Good despite its predecessor’s success. The BBC video, featuring culture correspondent Noor Nanji, examines these major nominees, record achievements, and the most discussed snubs, providing insight into the current awards season dynamics and potential frontrunners.