Oscars: 7 Films That Could Define the Awards Season, From ‘The Odyssey’ to ‘Michael’
The frontrunners have a head start. The festivals have contenders ready to run them down. Let the games begin. The film year has already delivered, led by Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” a July event picture that doubled as the first true best picture launch of 2026. Back in
The 2026 Oscars are shaping up to be a thrilling competition, with Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" already making a strong case for Best Picture. Released in July, the film's early buzz is a strategic advantage, allowing it to set the tone for the awards season. This head start will likely make it a tough contender to beat, but the festivals have already thrown up some challengers.
Films like "The Odyssey" often perform well at the Oscars, and Nolan's reputation as a master filmmaker will undoubtedly boost its chances. However, with a crowded field of contenders, including "Michael" and five other films, the competition is far from over. The upcoming festivals will be crucial in determining which movies will ultimately make the cut. As the games begin, all eyes will be on the frontrunners and the dark horses waiting to upset them.
As the awards season heats up, keep an eye on the performances and technical categories, where "The Odyssey" and its competitors will likely face off. With a strong showing in these areas, a film can quickly gain momentum and become a serious contender. What's next to watch is how the other contenders, including "Michael," will position themselves in the lead-up to the Oscars, and which films will ultimately emerge as the top nominees.
Originally reported by variety.com. FilmNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.