The nominations for the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards have been announced, igniting excitement for the upcoming awards season leading up to the Oscars. At the forefront of the film categories is Ira Sachs’ “Peter Hujar’s Day,” which received five nominations, including acting nods for Rebecca Hall and Ben Whishaw. Additionally, Keke Palmer and SZA were recognized for their performances in the comedy “One of Them Days,” which is also contending for Best First Feature.
In the realm of television, the series “Adolescence,” “Forever,” and “Mr. Loverman” have emerged as notable contenders, each securing four nominations. Noteworthy performances include those of Noah Wyle, Seth Rogen, and Ethan Hawke. “Chief of War,” featuring Jason Momoa, won the award for Best Ensemble Cast in a New Scripted Series, while “The Long Walk” team was celebrated with the Robert Altman Award.
While some prominent Oscar contenders were not eligible due to the Indie Spirits’ $30 million budget cap, several key award contenders like actors Rose Byrne and Joel Edgerton still garnered nominations. Historically, the Film Independent Spirit Awards have a track record of aligning with the Oscars, with three of the last five Best Feature winners also claiming the Academy’s Best Picture title.
This announcement of nominations coincided with the New York Film Critics Circle awarding “One Battle After Another” the title of Best Film of 2025. The winners for the 41st Film Independent Spirit Awards will be announced on February 15, 2026. This year’s nominations promise to showcase a rich diversity of talent and storytelling, underscoring the vibrancy of the independent film community. As the award season unfolds, it reflects a hopeful future for innovative filmmakers and fresh narratives.