How to Stream This Year’s Top Films Nominated for Best Picture Awards

The 2026 awards season is underway, and audiences can look forward to a diverse lineup of best picture nominees across various platforms. From streaming services to theatrical releases, here is a comprehensive guide on where and how to watch the acclaimed films contending for top honors this season.

Streaming Best Picture Nominees

Several highly nominated films are available for streaming, offering viewers convenient access from home. "One Battle After Another," directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, debuted in theaters on Sept. 26 and is now streaming on HBO Max. The dramedy explores the story of Pat Calhoun, a reformed revolutionary fighter confronting his past.

HBO Max also hosts "Sinners," a chilling horror set during the Jim Crow era. Directed by Ryan Coogler, it includes performances from Michael B. Jordan and Hailee Steinfeld. The film, which garnered seven Golden Globe nominations, generated critical buzz following its April release in theaters.

Netflix serves as the streaming home for two other major contenders: Guillermo del Toro’s "Frankenstein," starring Oscar Isaac, available now, and "Jay Kelly," a Noah Baumbach-directed drama featuring George Clooney and Adam Sandler in award-nominated roles. Both films carry significant nominations across Critics Choice and Golden Globes.

Other streaming highlights include "Train Dreams," starring Joel Edgerton as a logger navigating early 20th-century America, also on Netflix. "Bugonia," a dark comedy by Yorgos Lanthimos, streams on Peacock and features Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, both Golden Globe nominees. Additionally, "Nouvelle Vague," a Richard Linklater film about French New Wave cinema, is streaming on Netflix. Animated contenders "KPop Demon Hunters" and Pixar’s "Elio" are available on Netflix and Disney+, respectively.

In Theaters and Digital Rentals

Several critically acclaimed films continue to play exclusively in theaters or are available for rent and purchase on digital platforms. "Sentimental Value," which earned eight Golden Globe nominations, focuses on a family’s emotional journey and is currently in theaters. Furthermore, Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley star in "Hamnet," a historical fiction film about Shakespeare’s family tragedy, debuting exclusively in theaters.

"Marty Supreme," featuring Timothée Chalamet as an aspiring table tennis champion, has been rolling out in theaters and garnered multiple nominations at both the Golden Globes and Critics Choice. James Cameron’s "Avatar: Fire and Ash," a major commercial success, is also currently available in theaters.

Musical drama "Wicked: For Good," the sequel directed by Jon M. Chu, remains in theaters and can be rented or purchased digitally. The film stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande and received multiple nominations at both awards. "The Secret Agent," set in 1977 Brazil, is available for purchase on Apple TV and Prime Video but also screens in select theaters. It has been recognized with Golden Globe nominations for best picture and best actor.

Finally, Park Chan-wook’s "No Other Choice," a satirical black comedy thriller, is now playing select theaters with a wide release scheduled soon. Featuring an ensemble cast, it has received several Golden Globe and Critics Choice nods, underscoring its awards season importance.

Important Dates and Events

The season began with the 31st annual Critics Choice Awards held in Santa Monica early in January. The 83rd Annual Golden Globes followed shortly after in Beverly Hills, extending this year with a weeklong series of events branded as "Golden Week."

These ceremonies celebrate film and television achievements, highlighting the best motion pictures, performances, and screenplays. Films like "One Battle After Another" and "Sentimental Value" lead the Golden Globe nominations, indicating strong competition ahead.

How to Watch: A Quick Reference

1. HBO Max: "One Battle After Another," "Sinners"
2. Netflix: "Frankenstein," "Jay Kelly," "Train Dreams," "Nouvelle Vague," "KPop Demon Hunters"
3. Disney+: "Elio"
4. Peacock: "Bugonia"
5. Theaters & Digital Rental/Purchase:
   • "Sentimental Value" – Theaters and platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
   • "Hamnet" – Theaters only
   • "Marty Supreme" – Theaters
   • "Avatar: Fire and Ash" – Theaters
   • "Wicked: For Good" – Theaters and digital stores
   • "The Secret Agent" – Theaters and Apple TV, Prime Video
   • "No Other Choice" – Select theaters, upcoming wide release

This array of viewing options ensures that audiences can experience the nominees through preferred platforms, whether at home or in cinemas. Keeping track of the various releases and streaming availability can help award watchers stay up to date with this dynamic and celebrated film season.