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

December 26, 2025

Title: Oscars 2026: A Look at the Most Likely Contenders and How to Watch Them Before the Show

The film industry has always been known for its unpredictability, but one thing that remains constant is the anticipation surrounding Oscar season. With the nominees for the 98th Academy Awards set to be announced on January 22nd, followed by the ceremony on March 12th, movie enthusiasts are already speculating about which films will make it to the top of the list. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the most likely contenders and how you can watch them before the show.

At the top of the list is James Cameron's "Avatar: The Way of Water," the third installment in his science-fiction franchise that has already made history with its previous two films competing for best picture prizes. With a star-studded cast and groundbreaking visual effects, this film could very well complete the trifecta by winning the coveted award. Fans can catch it in theaters or wait for its release on Disney+ and Hulu.

Another highly anticipated movie is Guillermo del Toro's adaptation of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," starring Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his Creature. Del Toro, who won four Oscars for his 2018 film "The Shape of Water," is known for bringing a unique perspective to classic stories. This adaptation promises to be no exception, so make sure you add it to your watchlist on Netflix.

Chloé Zhao's "Benediction" tells the story of William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes as they grieve their young son in this heart-wrenching drama adapted from a novel by Maggie O’Farrell. With Zhao having already made history as one of only three women to win the best director Oscar for her 2020 film "Nomadland," expectations are high for this latest offering. Catch it in theaters or on Peacock once it becomes available.

While these films are certainly frontrunners, there are many other contenders vying for attention during Oscar season. As we eagerly await the nominations announcement, one thing is certain: no matter which movies make the cut, this year's Academy Awards promises to be an unforgettable event filled with surprises and celebrations of cinematic excellence.

In conclusion, while it remains to be seen which films will ultimately take home the top prizes at the 98th Academy Awards, these three contenders are definitely worth watching before the big night. With their captivating stories, stunning visuals, and talented casts, they represent the best of what Hollywood has to offer – a testament to the enduring power of cinema in our lives. So grab some popcorn, settle in for an unforgettable cinematic experience, and get ready to cheer on your favorite films come Oscar night!

Source: [Original Article](https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/oscars-2026-how-to-watch-awards-season-likely-contenders-rcna249626) #oscars

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