Oscars Shortlist Reveals Surprise Contenders for Best Original Score

The Oscars shortlist for best original score has been announced, with several notable films and composers earning recognition. The list includes Kangding Ray's haunting work on "Sirât" and Nathan Johnson's inventive score for "Wake Up Dead Man," both of which have garnered significant attention and praise from critics and industry professionals. According to Variety's Awards Circuit Predictions Pages, "Sirât" and Angel Studios are among the surprise inclusions on the shortlist, while "Testament of Ann Lee" was unexpectedly shut out of consideration. "Sirât" is a critically acclaimed film that has been praised for its unique blend of music and visuals, and Kangding Ray's score has been hailed as a standout element of the film. In a statement, Clayton Davis, Variety's chief awards editor, noted that the shortlist reflects a diverse range of musical styles and approaches. "This year's shortlist is a testament to the incredible range and creativity of the composers who are vying for the award," Davis said. "From the haunting sounds of 'Sirât' to the inventive scoring of 'Wake Up Dead Man,' each of these films showcases a unique and compelling musical voice." The inclusion of several female composers on the shortlist, including Lesley Barber, Laura Karpman, and Hildur Guðnadóttir, has also been noted as a significant development. Barber, who is currently serving as governor of the Music Branch, has been a vocal advocate for greater representation and diversity in the music industry. The background of the music industry has been marked by a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion. In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to increase representation and opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women and people of color. International perspectives on the Oscars have also been shaped by the growing recognition of the importance of global cinema. The inclusion of films and composers from around the world on the shortlist reflects the increasingly global nature of the film industry. The current status of the competition is that the shortlist will be narrowed down to five nominees, who will be announced in the coming weeks. The winners will be announced at the 97th Academy Awards ceremony in March 2026.