The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has revealed shortlists in 10 categories, bringing several notable films and artists one step closer to an Oscar nomination. Among the contenders are the Selena Gomez ballad 'Mi Camino,' the Will Ferrell and Harper Steele documentary 'Will & Harper,' and Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s score for 'Challengers.'
Two musicals, 'Emilia Pérez' and 'Wicked,' have made a strong showing in various categories. 'Emilia Pérez,' a Netflix drama centered on a transgender drug-lord, has secured nominations in international feature, original score, original songs like 'Mi Camino' and 'El Mal,' sound, and hair and makeup. Meanwhile, 'Wicked' has advanced in categories such as hair and makeup, original score, sound, and visual effects.
Notable artists in the running for best song include Pharrell Williams, Lainey Wilson, Elton John, Brandi Carlile, Robbie Williams, and Diane Warren, who could potentially earn her 16th nomination. Nicholas Britell’s 'Winter Coat' from the film 'Blitz,' performed by Saoirse Ronan, has also made the list.
Among the documentaries eligible for nominations are 'The Bibi Files,' 'Daughters,' 'Eno,' 'Frida,' 'The Remarkable Life of Ibelin,' 'Dahomey,' 'Union,' 'Porcelain War,' and 'No Other Land.'
International features moving forward include 'I’m Still Here' (Brazil), 'Universal Language' (Canada), 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' (Germany), 'Kneecap' (Ireland), 'Vermiglio' (Italy), 'Flow' (Latvia), and 'Dahomey' (Senegal).
While most shortlists focus on below-the-line categories celebrating crafts, some unexpected films have also garnered attention. 'Deadpool & Wolverine' and 'Alien: Romulus' have been recognized for sound, visual effects, and score.
The final nominations will be announced on January 17, narrowing down the shortlists to five contenders in each category. The 97th Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, are scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 2, with the ceremony airing on ABC and streaming live on Hulu.
