Hollywood: The film industry is gearing up for the most exciting time of the year—awards season. As the Oscars race begins, several films are emerging as strong contenders. Titles such as "Hamnet," "Sinners," and "Christy" are generating significant buzz, although some potential nominees have yet to premiere.
According to BBC, a large number of Oscar-tipped movies recently launched at the Venice, Telluride, and Toronto film festivals. These films join others that had already gained traction at Sundance and Cannes earlier in the year. "Hamnet," set in 1596, explores the death of William Shakespeare's 11-year-old son and the events leading the Bard to write "Hamlet." The film won the Toronto People's Choice Award, often a precursor to Oscar success, and will debut in UK cinemas on January 9, 2026.
Director Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another" might finally earn him an Oscar. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the film follows former revolutionaries who reunite to rescue a kidnapped girl. Critics have praised its gripping storytelling and pacing. The film opens in UK cinemas on September 26.
Ryan Coogler's "Sinners," a vampire movie released early in the awards year, defies expectations as an Oscars contender. The film, focusing on twin brothers returning to the Mississippi Delta, is both an original idea and a box office hit. It is available digitally.
Emma Stone stars in "Bugonia," playing a CEO kidnapped by conspiracy theorists. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the film may earn Jesse Plemons his first Oscar nomination. It releases in the UK on November 7.
"Christy," directed by David Michôd, stars Sydney Sweeney as famous boxer Christy Martin. The film chronicles Martin's rise and a murder attempt by her husband. Sweeney could receive her first Oscar nod for the film, which hits UK cinemas on November 28.
Daniel Day-Lewis returns from retirement in "Anemone," directed by his son Ronan. The film, about a former soldier reconnecting with his brother, releases in the UK on November 7.
"The Smashing Machine," featuring Dwayne Johnson as UFC fighter Mark Kerr, marks a career shift for the actor. Directed by Benny Safdie, who won the best director award at Venice, it releases in UK cinemas on October 3.
"Sentimental Value," a Cannes standout, follows estranged sisters reconnecting with their father. Starring Renate Reinsve, the film is in UK cinemas from December 26.
Luca Guadagnino's "A promising college student" involves a rape accusation at a college, stirring awards buzz. It releases in the UK on October 22.
"It Was Just An Accident," directed by Jafar Panahi, won the Palme d'Or at Cannes. Set against political repression in Iran, the film may receive nominations in the international category. It releases on December 5.
"Marty Supreme," starring Timothée Chalamet, follows table tennis player Marty Reisman. Directed by Josh Safdie, it releases on January 1, 2026.
"Wicked: For Good" and "Avatar: Fire and Ash" are blockbuster sequels likely to perform well at the box office. With an expanded best picture category, these films could secure nominations to maintain ceremony relevance.
Other notable films include Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein," George Clooney's "Jay Kelly," and music biopic "Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere." International contenders include "No Other Choice" from South Korea and "The Secret Agent" from Brazil.
These films are just the tip of the iceberg as the Oscars race heats up, promising a varied and competitive awards season.