The 98th Academy Awards nominations reveal a shift in Hollywood. While technical marvels usually command the spotlight, the 2026 lineup proves that emotional resonance currently holds more weight with voters than high-frame-rate spectacles. Out of over two hundred eligible films, only a few achieved the prestigious Best Picture nod, signaling a return to narrative-driven excellence.

The announcement of the nominations solidified a major trend: the Academy currently favors grit and grief over blue-skinned epics. The shift toward deep human narratives has left even the most anticipated cinematic giants behind.

The Academy has sent a clear message by embracing the raw power of Sentimental Value and the dark intensity of Sinners. These films dominated the major categories, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay, leaving the much-anticipated Avatar: Fire and Ash behind.

While James Cameron’s epic secured a spot in Best Visual Effects and Costume Design, it failed to capture the imagination of the general audience. This exclusion marks a significant moment where grounded narratives proved more compelling than expensive digital landscapes.

The success of Sentimental Value is largely due to its remarkable cast, featuring Renate Reinsve and Stellan Skarsgård. Meanwhile, Sinners proved its versatility by appearing in categories ranging from Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan to Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

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The competitive edge of these films stems from their ability to translate complex human conditions into unforgettable cinema.

Sentimental Value deserves its massive nomination haul because it masterfully navigates the delicate intricacies of family trauma and artistic ambition. The film serves as a showcase of chemistry that provides the backbone for its more than eight nominations.

It achieves a rare balance of being deeply personal yet universally relatable, a feat that voters rarely overlook. This Norwegian masterpiece has truly set a new benchmark for contemporary international drama.

Sinners earned its spot through a bold atmospheric vision that redefined the expectations for a modern thriller. By securing the acting, the film proved that its strength lies in its exceptional character work. The production also benefited from the new Best Casting category and its technical nominations in Sound and Cinematography, further demonstrating a complete mastery of the cinematic craft.

The Academy has chosen to celebrate films that leave a lasting psychological impact on the viewer. Each nomination for these two titles reflects a commitment to stories that challenge the audience to look inward.

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Are you satisfied with Sentimental Value and Sinners getting the major nomination this year in Oscar? Let us know in the comments below.