What's happened
As the 2026 Oscars approach, several films are emerging as early favorites. Notable contenders include Edward Berger's 'The Ballad of a Small Player' and Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet'. Other significant entries are Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' and James Cameron's 'Avatar: Fire and Ash'.
What's behind the headline?
Key Contenders for Best Picture
- 'The Ballad of a Small Player': Directed by Edward Berger, this psychological thriller features Colin Farrell and Tilda Swinton. Its narrative about an English conman in Macau is drawing significant attention.
- 'Hamnet': Chloé Zhao's adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's novel is another strong contender, exploring the emotional landscape of Shakespeare's family.
- 'Frankenstein': Guillermo del Toro's take on the classic horror story, starring Oscar Isaac and Mia Goth, is expected to resonate with both critics and audiences.
- 'Avatar: Fire and Ash': James Cameron's latest installment in the 'Avatar' franchise continues to attract a massive following, bolstered by its previous Oscar wins.
Implications for the Awards
The early favorites indicate a trend towards films that explore complex emotional narratives and character-driven stories. As the awards season progresses, these films will likely shape discussions around cinematic excellence and storytelling.
What the papers say
According to David Hepburn in The Scotsman, 'The Ballad of a Small Player' is currently the favorite for Best Picture, highlighting its psychological depth and star power. Hepburn also notes that Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet' is tied for the top spot, emphasizing its poignant exploration of grief. Meanwhile, The Guardian reports on the anticipation surrounding Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another', which, while not an Oscar favorite, showcases Leonardo DiCaprio's return to the screen. This film's high production budget and star-studded cast suggest it will be a significant player in the upcoming awards season, even if it doesn't lead the pack.
How we got here
The film industry is gearing up for a competitive awards season, with several high-profile directors releasing new works. Anticipation is building as critics and audiences speculate on potential Oscar winners.
Go deeper
- What are the themes of the leading films?
- Who are the directors behind these favorites?
- How do these films compare to past Oscar winners?
Common question
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What are the early favorites for the 2026 Oscars?
As the 2026 Oscars draw near, excitement is building around the films that are emerging as frontrunners. With notable contenders like 'The Ballad of a Small Player' and 'Hamnet', many are curious about what makes these films stand out. Below, we explore the early favorites and what they signify for the upcoming awards season.
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