Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter's executive editor, provides updated Oscar projections following recent film festivals, highlighting shifts in frontrunners and major contenders, including anticipated projects at TIFF.
On September 12, 2026, Scott Feinberg, the executive editor of awards coverage for The Hollywood Reporter, released his revised forecasts for the 24 Oscar categories following the Venice and Telluride film festivals as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) commenced. This update reflects significant movement in the award race due to recent high-profile premieres and critical receptions.
Key Highlights from Venice and Telluride
Both the Venice Film Festival and the Telluride Film Festival have showcased several films that have gained considerable attention in the lead-up to the Academy Awards. Venice featured the world premiere of NAZA, a documentary that garnered a remarkable 25-minute standing ovation, along with other noteworthy titles like Bunker, Wild Horse Nine, and Possible Love. At Telluride, the reception for Wild Horse Nine was similarly enthusiastic, alongside premieres like You Can See Everything and The Debut.
Feinberg noted that these films are pivotal in shaping the awards landscape, as they have received critical acclaim and audience applause, indicating strong potential as Oscar contenders. The Venice jury, led by Maggie Gyllenhaal, is expected to announce prize winners shortly, further defining the competition's parameters.
TIFF’s Start and Its Impact on Predictions
TIFF opened with a somewhat restrained atmosphere, likely due to its tradition of not highlighting films from Venice or Telluride at the festival's beginning. Films like Being Heumann and The Housewife were well-received during their world premieres. Meanwhile, the festival's returning favorite Obsession, which garnered significant Oscar buzz after its success last year, continues to maintain interest in its awards campaign.
Feinberg's predictions have notably evolved following these festivals, underscoring which films and performances are emerging as frontrunners. His forecast emphasizes films like The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan, and Project Hail Mary, which has gained traction as a contender for top honors, reflecting the shifting landscape as TIFF unfolds.
Frontrunners and Major Threats in the Oscar Race
The latest Feinberg Forecast recognizes several films as frontrunners, including:
The Odyssey (Universal)
Wild Horse Nine (Searchlight)
Project Hail Mary (Amazon/MGM)
La Bola Negra (Netflix)
Club Kid (A24)
In contrast, other titles have emerged as major threats, including Tender Loving Care, The Debut, and the highly anticipated Michael and Toy Story 5. These films represent a diverse range of genres and themes, indicating a competitive season where established narratives and innovative storytelling are both vying for recognition.
Scott Feinberg Updates Oscar Predictions After: Future Considerations and Upcoming Announcements
As TIFF continues and more films are showcased, the dynamics of the Oscars may further evolve. The festival will host premieres of significant films, including the eagerly awaited I Play Rocky, which hopes to follow in the footsteps of Green Book, a previous TIFF favorite that achieved Oscar gold. Feinberg's forecast will continue to adapt as more films are revealed to audiences.
His analytical approach provides valuable insights not only into the films' potential for Oscar recognition but also into the broader cultural conversations shaped by these cinematic works.
What this means
Feinberg's updated Oscar predictions post-TIFF are crucial for industry watchers, filmmakers, and fans alike. As the race heats up, understanding which films are trending can help shape expectations for awards season. With multiple festivals on the horizon and numerous films still under embargo, the competition for the Academy Awards remains highly dynamic. The Hollywood Reporter will continue to provide inside access and updates on this evolving narrative.
Scott Feinberg Updates Oscar Predictions After: Related EpisodeBreakdown guides
Scott Feinberg’s Oscar Predictions UpdatedKey Highlights from Venice and TellurideTIFF’s Start and Its Impact on PredictionsFrontrunners and Major Threats in the Oscar Race
EpisodeBreakdown may use automated tools to assist research, drafting, and formatting. Published pages are governed by our editorial and corrections policies, and source links are shown when they are available in the article record.
Discovery source:The Hollywood Reporter. The source identifies where the topic was discovered; EpisodeBreakdown is responsible for the commentary published on this page.
Reader response
What did you think?
Be the first to react
Reactions and poll results are based on real reader responses. No account is required.
Continue the story
movies
Poland Selects Paweł Pawlikowski’s ‘Fatherland’ For International Oscar Race
Poland has chosen ‘Fatherland’, directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, as its official submission for the Oscars 2027 International Feature Film race.Read next →
