Oscars 2026: Unveiling the Contenders Across Documentary, International, and Animated Categories

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announces the movies eligible for the 2026 Oscars in documentary, international, and animated feature categories. 201 documentaries, 86 international features, and 35 animations are in the mix. Noteworthy entries and notable omissions highlight this years' lists, with shortlisting in December.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the films eligible for the 2026 Oscars across three major categories: documentary feature, international feature, and animated feature, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. This year sees 201 documentaries, 86 international submissions, and 35 animated films qualifying for consideration.

Among the documentary contenders are festival favorites like Netflix's 'The Perfect Neighbor' and 'Apocalypse in the Tropics', along with Apple's 'Come See Me in the Good Light'. Notably absent is 'The Eyes of Ghana' by Ben Proudfoot, which lacks distribution. This year's international submissions feature celebrated titles distributed by Neon, including 'Sentimental Value' and 'It Was Just an Accident', directed by Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi but submitted by France due to backing reasons.

The animated feature category is headlined by record-breaking films such as 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - Infinity Castle'. Voting for shortlist selection begins in December 2025, with nominations announced on January 22, 2026, according to The Hollywood Reporter. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)