Oscars 2026: How to watch the movies getting the most awards buzz

Here’s a look at a dozen of the most likely 2026 Oscar contenders — and how you can watch them before the show.

Hollywood is on edge. These days, the film industry is racked with anxiety about impending corporate mergers, uneven box-office returns, the rise of artificial intelligence and other nail-biting twists.

But amid all the angst, America’s movie capital can still count on at least one time-tested tradition: Oscar season.

The film academy’s nearly 10,000 voting members will soon cast their Oscars ballots in more than 20 categories, including a new one recognizing achievement in casting. The nominees for the 98th Academy Awards will be announced on Jan. 22, with the ceremony to follow on March 12.

Here’s a look at a dozen of the most likely contenders — and how you can watch them before the show. In alphabetical order:

The third installment in James Cameron’s money-minting science-fiction franchise finds Na’vi couple Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) fending off new threats to their family and way of life. The first two “Avatar” blockbusters each competed for the best picture prize. Cameron’s latest might complete the trifecta.