Battlefield Blasts Meet Broadway Magic: Oscar Sound Shortlist Revealed

The Oscars shortlist for best sound has been announced, and the category is a symphony of chaos, featuring a diverse range of contenders vying for the top honor. One Battle After Another, a war film that has been making waves in the industry, has earned its spot with a gritty, ground-level realism that meticulously orchestrates every explosion and anguished scream for visceral emotional impact. Meanwhile, Sinners continues its awards momentum with a sound mix that is equal parts operatic and cinematic. According to Clayton Davis, chief awards editor at Variety, the competition in the best sound category is fierce, with several films pushing the boundaries of sound design. "This year's shortlist is a testament to the incredible work being done in sound design," Davis said. "From the intense battle scenes in One Battle After Another to the sweeping orchestral scores in Sinners, each film has brought something unique and innovative to the table." One Battle After Another, directed by James Gray, has been praised for its immersive sound design, which pulls audiences directly into the fog of battle. The film's sound team, led by supervising sound editor Mark Mangini, worked tirelessly to create a realistic and visceral experience for viewers. "We wanted to create a sense of chaos and disorder, to put the audience right in the midst of the battle," Mangini said. "It was a challenging but rewarding process, and we're thrilled to be recognized for our work." Sinners, on the other hand, has been praised for its operatic sound mix, which combines sweeping orchestral scores with intimate, emotional moments. The film's sound team, led by supervising sound editor Tom Johnson, worked closely with the film's director, Olivia Wilde, to create a sound design that perfectly captured the film's themes and tone. "We wanted to create a sense of grandeur and drama, to match the operatic scope of the film," Johnson said. "It was a collaborative process, and we're thrilled with the result." The best sound category has been a staple of the Oscars for decades, recognizing the often-overlooked work of sound designers and editors. This year's shortlist is a testament to the incredible work being done in the field, and the competition is sure to be fierce. The winners will be announced at the 97th Academy Awards, which take place on March 8, 2026. As the awards season heats up, fans and industry professionals alike are eagerly anticipating the results. With a diverse range of contenders vying for the top honor, it's anyone's guess who will take home the award. One thing is certain, however: the best sound category is always a highlight of the Oscars, and this year's shortlist is no exception.