The Golden Globes, taking place in Los Angeles on October 15, 2026, mark the official start of the awards season, celebrating exceptional television shows and films from the past year. As Hollywood gears up for an extravagant series of events, the spotlight is on several notable storylines, particularly the rising prominence of horror films and the competitive landscape of television categories.
Horror Films Gain Traction
Horror cinema, once a mainstay of award recognition, is experiencing a resurgence, with films like “Sinners” emerging as strong contenders. Directed by Ryan Coogler, this hybrid horror film has garnered extensive acclaim, especially for its engaging narrative about Black twin brothers, portrayed by Michael B. Jordan, who establish a juke joint in Mississippi during the Great Depression. The film has received seven nominations at the Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture – Drama and a nod for Coogler himself.
Despite its summer release, “Sinners” has maintained a strong presence in discussions surrounding award potential, with its box office success highlighting the genre’s marketability. Additionally, the film has been nominated in the new box office achievement category, drawing comparisons to previous winners like “Barbie” and “Wicked.”
Another horror-related highlight includes Amy Madigan‘s performance in the film “Weapons.” Her portrayal of Aunt Gladys has earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Director Zach Cregger‘s film has resonated with audiences, particularly through social media, where Madigan’s character has inspired Halloween costume trends and makeup tutorials. With several film critics circle awards already in her pocket, Madigan’s nomination adds to the excitement surrounding horror at this year’s Globes.
Anticipation Surrounds Major Productions
In addition to horror, the film “One Battle After Another” by Paul Thomas Anderson is generating buzz. With a critic score of 95% on both Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, the film is a strong contender for various awards. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a disillusioned revolutionary, the film explores themes of conflict with a compelling cast that includes Sean Penn and rising stars Teyana Taylor and Chase Infiniti.
The Golden Globes may reveal unexpected outcomes that could influence the trajectory of this awards season, particularly in light of “One Battle After Another”‘s impressive momentum.
While television categories may seem predictable with contenders such as “The Pitt,” “Severance,” “The White Lotus,” and “Hacks,” there is potential for surprises. Rhea Seehorn has earned her first Golden Globe nomination for her role in “Pluribus,” a sci-fi series from Vince Gilligan. Competing against established names like Kathy Bates and Helen Mirren, Seehorn’s recent Critics Choice Award win positions her as a serious contender in the best female actor category.
In an innovative twist, this year’s telecast will introduce a new category for Best Podcast, recognizing influential shows in the medium. Notable nominees include “Armchair Expert,” “Call Her Daddy,” and NPR’s “Up First.” This addition reflects a growing trend in entertainment consumption, catering to the evolving interests of global audiences.
With the Golden Globes paving the way for the 2026 awards season, a mix of traditional favorites and surprising newcomers promises an exciting and unpredictable journey ahead.
