Fall movie season has officially begun, and with it comes the early buzz about which films might be in the running for the Academy Awards. The Oscar race typically starts in earnest after major film festivals, like the Cannes Film Festival in May, and continues through fall events in Venice, Telluride, and Toronto. These festivals often showcase films that could be considered for awards, and industry experts are already analyzing which titles might stand out. Christopher Nolan’s new film, The Odyssey, is seen as a strong contender in the awards race, though it may not be the top favorite for Best Picture. His previous film, Oppenheimer, took home both Best Picture and Best Director at the 2023 Academy Awards. However, The Odyssey may face challenges, as the Academy has increasingly favored smaller, independent films in recent years over big-budget blockbusters. New York City is set to be a major focus this fall, with several films highlighting its culture and history. These include Club Kid, which explores the city’s nightlife scene, and Once Upon a Time in Harlem, which delves into the neighborhood’s rich cultural legacy. Other titles like The History of Concrete and The Only Living Pickpocket are also expected to draw attention for their unique storytelling and local themes. John Malkovich, who has been nominated for two Oscars but never won, may have his best chance yet with his role in Martin McDonagh’s Wild Horse Nine. Meanwhile, Curry Barker’s horror film One Wish Willow has already broken records and is expected to be a part of an awards campaign, possibly competing in top Oscar categories. Other films set for release in early 2026, like Project Hail Mary and The Invite, are also being considered for awards recognition. International films are also expected to play a significant role in the Oscar race, with notable releases from countries like Japan, Norway, Spain, and Nigeria, among others.