The 2026 Golden Globes are set to kick off the awards season this Sunday, marking the beginning of a competitive cycle for major film accolades. With a diverse array of films released in the past year, the nominations promise an exciting blend of established favorites and potential dark horse contenders. As the anticipation builds, industry insiders are keenly analyzing which performances and films might dominate or surprise.
Among the standout films of the past year, productions like Sinners, One Battle After Another, and Wicked: For Good have garnered significant attention. Emotional dramas such as Hamnet and Train Dreams, alongside international features like It Was Just an Accident and Sentimental Value, have also made their mark. As the awards approach, many are left wondering if first-time nominees like Jessie Buckley and Timothée Chalamet will secure their first Academy Award nominations or if a surprise contender will emerge.
Predictions for Best Motion Picture
The Golden Globes uniquely feature two categories for Best Motion Picture, divided into drama and musical or comedy. This format doubles the opportunities for films to secure awards, creating a vibrant competition.
In the Best Motion Picture – Drama category, Sinners and One Battle After Another have maintained strong support from audiences since their releases. Hamnet is also a significant contender, particularly with its emotional depth and its connection to Shakespeare’s legacy. The film has resonated with viewers, making it a serious candidate for awards recognition.
Prediction: Sinners
Dark Horse: Hamnet
The Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy category is equally competitive. Director Richard Linklater is making waves with two nominations for his films, Nouvelle Vague and Blue Moon. Despite their underdog status, both films have been well-received. One Battle After Another has already triumphed at the Critics’ Choice Awards, establishing it as a leading contender. Yet, Marty Supreme, directed by Josh Safdie, remains a scrappy contender to watch.
Prediction: One Battle After Another
Dark Horse: Marty Supreme
Best Director and Acting Categories
The Best Director category features some of the industry’s most celebrated filmmakers, including Chloé Zhao for Hamnet and Ryan Coogler for Sinners. Paul Thomas Anderson, who has been previously overlooked, could finally secure recognition for his work on One Battle After Another. While Guillermo del Toro faces challenges in gaining momentum for Frankenstein, Jafar Panahi stands out, having recently faced legal challenges in Iran.
Prediction: Paul Thomas Anderson
Dark Horse: Ryan Coogler
In the Best Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama category, Jessie Buckley appears to be the frontrunner for her performance in Hamnet, showcasing a range of vulnerability and strength. She faces competition from Jennifer Lawrence in Die My Love, who delivers a bold performance, though her film’s reception may hinder her chances.
Prediction: Jessie Buckley
Dark Horse: Jennifer Lawrence
The Best Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama category is also fierce, with Michael B. Jordan poised for recognition for his dual role in Sinners. Joel Edgerton, with a nuanced performance in Train Dreams, could be a potential upset.
Prediction: Michael B. Jordan
Dark Horse: Joel Edgerton
In the musical or comedy categories, the competition remains tight. Rose Byrne in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You is a strong candidate thanks to her standout role, while Kate Hudson in Song Sung Blue also poses a threat to seize the spotlight.
Prediction: Rose Byrne
Dark Horse: Kate Hudson
The Best Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy category features Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio, both delivering exceptional performances in their respective films. As both actors have significant fan followings, the competition may result in a split vote, potentially opening the door for Ethan Hawke to claim victory.
Prediction: Timothée Chalamet or Leonardo DiCaprio
Dark Horse: Ethan Hawke
The Golden Globes are known for their unpredictability, and this year’s nominees are no exception. As the ceremony approaches, the excitement surrounding potential winners continues to grow. With a blend of established stars and emerging talent, the 2026 Golden Globes promise to be a memorable event in the world of film awards.
