Academy Shortlists Multiple 2025 Films in 12 Categories

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has narrowed contenders across preliminary Oscar categories. Titles including ‘Sinners’, ‘Wicked: For Good’, ‘Frankenstein’, ‘One Battle After Another’, and ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ advanced in multiple races. The announcements cover areas from documentary feature to original song and the newly introduced best casting.

Shortlists represent voting results from specific branches. Members selected from eligible submissions in each field. Final nominations across all categories arrive in January 2026.

‘Sinners’ directed by Ryan Coogler earned spots in several technical and music fields. The vampire horror stars Michael B. Jordan alongside Hailee Steinfeld and Jack O’Connell. It premiered earlier this year to strong reviews.

‘Wicked: For Good’ concludes the two-part adaptation of the Broadway musical. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande reprise Elphaba and Glinda. The film secured advancement in song, score, and production categories.

‘Frankenstein’ from director Guillermo del Toro features Oscar Isaac as Victor and Jacob Elordi as the creature. It progressed in makeup, effects, and costume design. The Netflix production emphasizes practical creature work.

‘One Battle After Another’ starring Teyana Taylor and Oscar Isaac moved forward in supporting performance considerations. The drama explores personal conflicts amid larger societal issues.

‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ continues James Cameron’s Pandora saga with returning cast including Zoe Saldaña and Sam Worthington. It dominated visual effects and sound shortlists. The sequel incorporates advanced underwater performance capture.

Additional films like ‘Bugonia’, ‘Hamnet’, and ‘Marty Supreme’ received mentions in specific branches. The international feature category includes submissions from over 80 countries.

This year’s expansion added best casting as a recognized discipline. Voters shortlisted achievements highlighting ensemble assembly processes.

The documentary feature race features 15 finalists from hundreds of entries. Original song contenders include tracks from major musical adaptations.

Branch voting determined these reductions from initial eligibility lists. General membership selects final nominees next month.

These advancements signal frontrunners emerging in a competitive season. Studios now focus campaigns toward nomination ballots closing soon.

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony occurs in March 2026. Hosts and broadcast details remain pending announcement.

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