The race for the Academy Award for Best Costume Design is taking shape, with "Frankenstein" and "Sinners" emerging as frontrunners, according to Variety's Awards Circuit predictions updated Jan. 5, 2026. The predictions, curated by Variety chief awards editor Clayton Davis, reflect the current standings based on formal and informal polls, buzz, and recent events.
Kate Hawley's work on "Frankenstein," a Netflix production slated for 2025, and Ruth E. Carter's designs for "Sinners" are considered strong contenders. Carter is a two-time Oscar winner, recognized for her work on "Black Panther" and "Amistad," bringing a wealth of experience and cultural understanding to her craft. The potential nomination for "Sinners" highlights the Academy's increasing recognition of costume design that reflects diverse cultural narratives.
"Wicked: For Good," with costumes by Paul Tazewell, also appears to be a likely nominee. Tazewell won the award last year. Malgosia Turzanska's work on "Hamnet" rounds out the films in contention.
Costume design plays a crucial role in filmmaking, extending beyond mere aesthetics to inform character development and reflect the historical and cultural context of a narrative. In "Frankenstein," Hawley's designs likely aim to capture the gothic horror and scientific themes inherent in Mary Shelley's classic novel, potentially drawing inspiration from various interpretations of the story across different eras and national cinemas. The film stars Mia Goth as Elizabeth.
The Academy's Costume Designers Branch holds significant sway in determining the nominees and winner. Their preferences often reflect a balance between technical skill, historical accuracy (where applicable), and the overall impact of the costumes on the storytelling.
Davis notes that the predictions are fluid and subject to change, emphasizing the competitive nature of awards season. The final nominations will depend on various factors, including critical reception, guild awards, and the overall momentum of each film. The Academy Awards ceremony is expected to take place in early 2026.
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