The nominations for the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards have been unveiled, signaling a significant milestone as the awards season gears up toward the Oscars. Leading the nominations in the film categories is Ira Sachs’ “Peter Hujar’s Day,” which garnered five nods, including acting nominations for Rebecca Hall and Ben Whishaw. Keke Palmer and SZA were also acknowledged for their performances in the acclaimed comedy “One of Them Days,” which is a contender for Best First Feature.
In the television category, “Adolescence,” “Forever,” and “Mr. Loverman” emerged as frontrunners with four nominations each. Among the notable acting nominees are well-known names like Noah Wyle, Seth Rogen, and Ethan Hawke. “Chief of War,” featuring Jason Momoa, secured the award for Best Ensemble Cast in a New Scripted Series, while the team behind “The Long Walk” was honored with the Robert Altman Award.
It is important to note that some prominent Oscar contenders have been excluded from the nominations due to the Indie Spirits’ budget cap of $30 million. However, several significant awards hopefuls, including actors Rose Byrne and Joel Edgerton, still received recognition. The Spirit Awards have demonstrated a historical alignment with the Oscars, with three of the last five Best Feature winners also taking home the Academy Award for Best Picture.
These nominations come just a day after the New York Film Critics Circle awarded “One Battle After Another” as its Best Film of 2025. The winners of the 41st Film Independent Spirit Awards will be announced on February 15, 2026, adding anticipation for both filmmakers and audiences alike. This year’s nominations reflect a diverse array of talent and storytelling, promising to keep audiences engaged as the awards season unfolds.
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