The race for the 98th Academy Awards is heating up, with several films already making waves in the 2025 festival circuit and early screenings. Here are the top Best Picture contenders to watch as we approach the Oscars 2026.
🎬 Top Best Picture Contenders for the 2026 Oscars
1. Frankenstein
Director: Guillermo del Toro
Cast: Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz
Release Date: October 17, 2025 (Theatrical), November 7, 2025 (Netflix)
Genre: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi
Studio: Netflix
Why It’s Buzzing: Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel has garnered early acclaim for its emotional depth and visual storytelling. The film’s ensemble cast and del Toro’s direction position it as a strong contender for multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
2. One Battle After Another
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn
Release Date: TBA
Genre: Drama
Why It’s Buzzing: This film, inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s Vineland, has generated significant anticipation due to Anderson’s direction and the star power of DiCaprio and Penn. Early discussions suggest it could be a major player in the Best Picture category.
3. Sentimental Value
Director: Joachim Trier
Cast: Renate Reinsve, Stellan SkarsgĂĄrd, Elle Fanning
Release Date: TBA
Genre: Drama
Why It’s Buzzing: Premiering at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Sentimental Value won the Grand Prix and received excellent reviews. Its critical acclaim and emotional storytelling make it a strong contender for Best Picture.
4. After The Hunt
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Cast: Julia Roberts
Release Date: TBA
Genre: Thriller, Drama
Why It’s Buzzing: This dramatic thriller, featuring Julia Roberts as a college professor grappling with a serious accusation, has been highlighted as an early contender for Best Picture due to its compelling narrative and Roberts’ performance.
5. Mickey 17
Director: Bong Joon Ho
Cast: Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, Mark Ruffalo
Release Date: March 7, 2025
Genre: Sci-Fi, Black Comedy
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Why It’s Buzzing: Bong Joon Ho’s latest film, based on the novel Mickey7, has received positive reviews for its innovative storytelling and strong performances. Its unique premise and critical acclaim position it as a potential Best Picture nominee.ats up with exclusive interviews, nominee reveals, and expert analysis.
đź“… Key Dates for the 2026 Oscars
- December 2025: Film release deadlines for eligibility
- January 2026: Official Oscar nominations announced
- March 2026: The 98th Academy Awards ceremony
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