Oscar Contenders Emerge: Sibling Sagas, Spy Thrills, and a Toybox Tale Vie for Original Screenplay Glory

Oscar Predictions: Original Screenplay — The Race Is Filled With Stories of Siblings, Spies and a Guy Living Inside Toys R' Us LOS ANGELES, CA - In the highly competitive category of Best Original Screenplay at the 2026 Oscars, a diverse range of stories has emerged as top contenders. According to Variety's Awards Circuit predictions, films like "Sinners," "Sentimental Value," and "Is This Thing On?" are vying for the coveted award. The most notable aspect of this year's competition is the prevalence of sibling-centric narratives. "Sinners" tells the story of two brothers navigating their complicated relationship, while "Sentimental Value" explores the bond between sisters. These themes resonate with audiences worldwide, particularly in cultures where family ties are deeply ingrained. "I think it's fascinating to see how these stories about siblings have captured the hearts of voters," said Clayton Davis, Variety's senior awards editor. "It speaks to a universal human experience that transcends borders and languages." In addition to sibling tales, other contenders like "Jay Kelly" offer a glimpse into the glamorous world of Hollywood, while "I" delves into government corruption. These themes have global implications, highlighting issues such as power struggles, accountability, and the impact of politics on everyday lives. The international community has taken notice of these stories, with many predicting a diverse winner's circle at the Oscars. "This year's crop of nominees reflects the complexity and diversity of human experience," said film critic and cultural commentator, Aisha Ahmad. "It's exciting to see how these stories will resonate with audiences worldwide." As the awards season heats up, voters are expected to deliberate on which screenplay best captures the essence of storytelling. With a range of themes and narratives vying for attention, it remains to be seen which film will ultimately take home the Oscar. The current standings in the Best Original Screenplay category are: 1. "Sinners" (Searchlight Pictures) 2. "Sentimental Value" (Warner Bros.) 3. "Is This Thing On?" (Netflix) Predictions are updated every Thursday, and voters have until February 2026 to cast their ballots. Background: The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, recognize excellence in cinematic achievements worldwide. The Best Original Screenplay category honors writers who create original stories that captivate audiences globally. Additional Perspectives: Industry experts predict a tight competition between "Sinners" and "Sentimental Value," with some speculating that "Is This Thing On?" could be a dark horse contender. As the awards season unfolds, voters will continue to deliberate on which screenplay best represents the art of storytelling. Next Developments: The 2026 Oscars ceremony is scheduled for March 2026 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The event will be broadcast globally, with millions tuning in to witness the culmination of this year's awards season. *Reporting by Variety.*