‘Sinners’ Makes Oscar History with Record 16 Nominations
Story by Patrick "Chief" Callum - 2 min read
January 22, 2026 — Ryan Coogler’s genre-defying vampire drama Sinners has rewritten the Academy Awards record book, becoming the most-nominated film in Oscar history with 16 nods for the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. The achievement surpasses the long-standing mark of 14 nominations previously set by classics like Titanic, La La Land, and All About Eve.
Set against the backdrop of 1930s Mississippi, Sinners blends supernatural horror, blues music and incisive commentary on racism and segregation. At the heart of the film is Michael B. Jordan, who delivers a dual performance as twin brothers returning home to confront both human and vampiric terrors — a role that has earned him his first Oscar nomination for Best Actor.
The film, released in April 2025, has already been celebrated throughout awards season for its originality and technical achievements. It’s 16 Academy nominations include major categories such as Best Picture, Best Director for Coogler, Best Original Screenplay, and recognition in categories that span Casting, Costume Design, Cinematography, Original Score, Visual Effects and more.
Supporting performances also drew attention, with Delroy Lindo nominated for Best Supporting Actor and Wunmi Mosaku receiving a nod for Best Supporting Actress. These acting honors underscore the broad acclaim for the ensemble’s work.
Industry watchers note that Sinners not only excels in artistic categories but also demonstrates global appeal, with strong box office returns — having grossed over $360 million worldwide — and widespread critical praise.
Trailing closely behind Sinners in the nomination count is Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another, which earned 13 nominations, including Best Picture and multiple acting nods for stars such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Teyana Taylor. Other films in the Oscar conversation this year include Hamnet, Frankenstein, Marty Supreme, and Sentimental Value, reflecting an especially competitive field.
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 15, with Conan O’Brien returning as host. This year’s record haul for Sinners highlights both the film’s impact and an evolving Oscars landscape that increasingly rewards bold storytelling and genre innovation.
#SinnersMovie #MichaelBJordan #Oscars2026 #OscarNominations #AcademyAwards #FilmHistory
Share this page with your family and friends.