99th Academy Awards predictions highlight Penélope Cruz and ‘The Odyssey’

The race for the 99th Academy Awards is intensifying as awards season predictions evolve. Penélope Cruz has emerged as a significant contender for Best Supporting Actress following her performance in ‘La Bola Negra,’ a film that received acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival.

In the Best Supporting Actor category, discussions are centering on the potential for multiple nominations from Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey,’ which stars Robert Pattinson.

Key dates for the upcoming awards cycle include the Governors Awards on November 15, 2026, where Glenn Close and Ridley Scott will receive honorary Oscars. Preliminary voting for the shortlist will occur from December 7–11, 2026, with the official nominations announcement scheduled for January 21, 2027. The 99th Oscars ceremony will be hosted by Conan O’Brien and will take place on March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.