2026 Oscar Nominations Official List: All 24 Categories

Get ready, movie lovers! The biggest night in Hollywood is just around the corner, and the official list of nominees for the 2026 Oscars has dropped! This is the moment we've all been waiting for, where the Academy unveils the films and the incredible talent that shone brightest in the past year. It’s like a giant cinematic buffet, and we get to see who’s serving up the tastiest dishes!
Think of it as the ultimate report card for the year's best movies. From the epic blockbusters that had us on the edge of our seats to the quiet indie gems that touched our hearts, every kind of film gets its chance to shine. And with 24 categories, there’s something for everyone to cheer for. It’s not just about the big awards like Best Picture; it’s a whole spectrum of movie magic being celebrated.
So, what makes this whole Oscar nomination announcement so darn exciting? For starters, it's the official kick-off to awards season! The buzz starts now, and it's infectious. Suddenly, everyone is talking about movies, debating who deserves to win, and re-watching their favorites. It’s a fantastic excuse to dive back into the films you loved or discover ones you might have missed.
The Best Picture race is always the headline grabber, isn't it? This year's nominees are a fantastic mix. We've got some of those big, sweeping epics that transport you to another world, and then there are those smaller, more intimate stories that feel so real, you’d swear you were part of them. It’s a true testament to the diverse storytelling that Hollywood has to offer.
But the Oscars are so much more than just Best Picture. Let’s talk about the acting categories. Oh, the acting! Imagine the sheer talent on display. We’re talking about actors and actresses who transform themselves completely, making us laugh, cry, and feel every single emotion right along with them. Seeing who gets recognized for their powerful performances is always a huge thrill.

The nominees for Best Actor and Best Actress are always a fascinating group. You have seasoned veterans who have graced the screen for decades, delivering consistently brilliant work. And then you have fresh faces, newcomers who burst onto the scene with performances so captivating, you can't take your eyes off them. It’s a wonderful blend of established stars and rising talents.
And don't forget the supporting roles! The nominations for Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress are where we often see those scene-stealers, the characters who might not be front and center but leave an indelible mark on the film. They're the secret sauce that makes a movie truly unforgettable. It’s a joy to see these incredible actors get their well-deserved spotlight.
Then there are the technical wizards. The Oscars celebrate the behind-the-scenes magic too, and that’s just as captivating. Think about the breathtaking cinematography that paints stunning pictures on screen. The sharp editing that keeps the story flowing perfectly. The imaginative production design that builds entire worlds. And, of course, the unforgettable musical scores that lift every scene.

The nominees for Best Cinematography often showcase visual artistry at its finest. You’ll look at some of these shots and think, "How did they even do that?" It’s pure visual poetry. And the films nominated for Best Film Editing are the ones that just work, seamlessly weaving together all the different elements into a cohesive and compelling narrative.
And let’s not overlook the storytelling itself. The categories for Best Original Screenplay and Best Adapted Screenplay highlight the brilliant minds that craft these tales. Whether it’s a completely new idea that sparks our imagination or a beloved book brought to life in a fresh way, a great script is the foundation of any fantastic film. It’s fascinating to see which stories the Academy felt were the most impactful and well-told.

There’s also the animated world to celebrate! The nominees for Best Animated Feature are always a delight, showcasing the incredible creativity and artistry that goes into bringing characters and stories to life through animation. These films often tackle complex themes with a vibrant visual style that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a category that consistently delivers pure joy and wonder.
And for those who love a good tune, the nominees for Best Original Song are a treat. These are the songs that stick with you long after the credits roll, the melodies that become the soundtrack to your life. It’s amazing to see how music can elevate a film and capture its very essence.
The 2026 Oscar nominations list is more than just a list of names and titles; it’s a celebration of human creativity, passion, and the power of storytelling. It’s a chance to reflect on the films that moved us, inspired us, and entertained us over the past year. It’s a reminder of why we love going to the movies. So, dive in, see who’s in the running, and get ready for the most glamorous night in Hollywood! Who are you rooting for?
