With the Cannes Film Festival concluded and the fall festival circuit on the horizon, the 2027 Oscar race is beginning to take shape. Several films have already emerged as frontrunners, while late-year releases could reshape the landscape. Here is an early look at the contenders.
Best Picture Frontrunners
The film generating the most buzz is "The Horizon," Denis Villeneuve's sweeping historical epic set during the 1846 Mexican-American War. Premiering at Cannes to a seven-minute standing ovation, the film features a sprawling ensemble cast and was shot on 70mm film. Critics have praised its visual ambition and thematic depth, though its three-hour runtime could be a commercial challenge.
Another strong contender is "Quiet Light," directed by Chantal Ackerman protégé Léa Mysius. The intimate drama about a deaf painter navigating a creative crisis won the Cannes Grand Prix and has been embraced by critics for its sensory storytelling. A24 is positioning it as a major awards player.
On the blockbuster side, Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey," a science fiction adaptation of Homer's epic, is expected to contend despite its commercial leanings. Nolan's post-Oppenheimer prestige gives the film credibility, and Universal is mounting an aggressive campaign.
Acting Contenders
In the Best Actor category, Joaquin Phoenix is generating early buzz for his transformative performance in "The Horizon." Phoenix, who won for "Joker" in 2020, would join the rare group of actors with multiple Best Actor wins. Other contenders include Paul Mescal for his restrained work in "Quiet Light" and Daniel Day-Lewis, who came out of retirement for an undisclosed project slated for December release.
Best Actress is shaping up to be a competitive race. Saoirse Ronan delivers a career-best performance in "The Harvest," a psychological thriller that premiered at Cannes. Florence Pugh is also in the conversation for her physically demanding role in "The Odyssey." And veteran actress Viola Davis is reportedly devastating in an upcoming Netflix drama that has been kept under wraps.
"This could be one of the most competitive acting races in recent memory. The depth of performances across categories is remarkable," noted an awards consultant.
Dark Horses and Late Entries
The fall festivals, particularly Toronto and Venice, will introduce films that could shake up the race. Steven Spielberg is reportedly putting finishing touches on a musical adaptation, and Martin Scorsese has a project in post-production that could debut late in the year. The Academy's increasing international membership also favors submissions from non-English-language films, with several Palme d'Or contenders expected to be submitted by their respective countries.
The 99th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 7, 2027. Nominations will be announced on January 19, leaving five months for the race to evolve. Expect surprises, campaigns, and the usual awards-season drama.