The announcement of the 2026 Oscar nominations has ignited a lively debate among movie enthusiasts, particularly surrounding the recognition of the film F1 and the complete omission of Wicked: For Good. While F1, led by Brad Pitt, garnered four nominations including Best Picture, Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects, many are questioning the Academy’s decision to overlook the much-anticipated sequel to the Broadway blockbuster.
Released in January 2026, F1 has not only captivated audiences but has also emerged as Apple’s highest-grossing film, raking in an impressive $524 million globally. Despite its commercial success, social media reactions reflect a notable discontent regarding the exclusion of Wicked: For Good, which featured stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in lead roles. Many fans took to platforms like X to express their disbelief, with one user stating, “I can’t believe F1 got nominated but not Wicked????? Crazy work.”
The absence of any nominations for Wicked: For Good has left fans baffled, particularly given the expectations surrounding the film. Grande was seen as a strong contender for a Best Supporting Actress nomination, while the production also appeared poised for recognition in categories like makeup and hairstyling, as well as production design. “How did the F1 movie get four Oscar nominations including best picture?? I’m in disbelief,” another fan lamented.
Another aspect that has drawn criticism is the snub for Best Costume Design, particularly surprising given that Paul Tazewell received the award for the first film in 2024. Comments like, “F1 made it to the best picture nominees; I’m sure Wicked for Good could have made it to best costumes,” underscore the frustration felt by many fans.
The discourse has not been limited to Wicked: For Good. Other films, such as the historical musical drama The Testament of Ann Lee, also missed out on nominations, leading to further outrage. One user remarked, “The Oscars are always embarrassing, but nominating F1 for best pic and not giving a single nom to Ann Lee is particularly embarrassing.” This sentiment was echoed by others who felt that standout performances, such as that of Amanda Seyfried as Ann Lee, warranted recognition.
Supporters of F1, on the other hand, argue that its visual appeal and storytelling merit the nominations it received. Comments like, “F1 Movie brought millions of people to the cinema, it’s visually so beautiful,” highlight the film’s impact on audiences, with some fans insisting it deserved its place over other contenders. “That movie has done more for the industry than movies that won last year,” another supporter stated.
In total, F1 will compete against films like Bugonia, Frankenstein, Hamnet, and Sinners in the Best Picture category. As the awards approach, the conversation surrounding the Academy’s decisions continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse opinions of film fans worldwide. The backlash against the nominations illustrates the evolving landscape of cinematic recognition and the ongoing dialogue about what constitutes merit in the film industry.
As the Oscars draw nearer, it remains to be seen how the Academy will respond to the public outcry and whether such debates will influence future nominations.
