Oscar buzz is already building with the unveiling of the first films eligible for digital screening to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, igniting speculation about potential contenders. Among these hopefuls, two titles, in particular, are generating significant attention: “KPop Demon Hunters,” a Netflix/Sony Pictures Animation collaboration, and “The Ugly Stepsister,” an IFC/Shudder horror offering. As the awards season for the 98th Academy Awards unofficially kicks off, the question looms: Will these films defy expectations and achieve Oscar award recognition?
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Early Oscar Contenders
The journey to the Oscars is a marathon, not a sprint, and the initial batch of films made available for Academy members’ digital screening represents the first step. According to multiple media outlets, including Animation Magazine, Times Now, and Zoom TV, these films are now accessible to over 11,000 Academy voters, marking the official start of the 2025 awards season. This process allows Academy members to view and consider a wide range of films from the comfort of their homes, significantly influencing the nomination process.
Netflix’s Animated Hopeful: “KPop Demon Hunters”
“KPop Demon Hunters” emerges as a particularly strong contender, given its impressive performance on Netflix. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, this CG adventure blends the infectious energy of K-pop with the supernatural thrills of demon hunting. The film’s success is undeniable; as of August 5th, it ranked fourth on Netflix’s all-time most popular films list, solidifying its position as the platform’s biggest animated film to date. The film’s narrative centers around K-pop superstars who lead a double life as demon hunters, captivating audiences with its unique premise and vibrant animation.
Adding to its appeal, the film’s original songs have resonated deeply with audiences. All seven tracks charted, with “Golden” by the fictional group HUNTR/X reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 and No. 2 on the Hot 100. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as HUNTR/X became the first all-female K-pop act to break into the Top 5 on the Hot 100, according to Billboard charts. This musical success significantly bolsters “KPop Demon Hunters”‘ chances for both Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song nominations at the Oscars.
A Horror Entry: “The Ugly Stepsister”
While “KPop Demon Hunters” brings the glitz and glamour of K-pop to the Oscar race, “The Ugly Stepsister” offers a darker, more unsettling perspective. Described as a Norwegian horror film, this IFC/Shudder release aims to captivate Academy voters with its chilling narrative and atmospheric visuals. Its inclusion in the first wave of digital screeners demonstrates the Academy’s openness to considering films from various genres, including those that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
The Screening Process and Oscar Timeline
Studios pay a fee to have their films featured on the Academy’s digital screening platform, ensuring their work is considered by the voting members. This process is crucial for smaller, independent films that may not have the marketing budget to compete with larger studio productions. The digital screening platform levels the playing field, allowing Academy members to discover and appreciate films based on their merit, regardless of their commercial success.
Alongside “KPop Demon Hunters” and “The Ugly Stepsister,” the initial batch of digital screeners includes titles such as “The Luckiest Man in America,” “Becoming Led Zeppelin,” “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight,” and “Hello Beautiful.” This diverse selection of films highlights the breadth of cinematic talent and storytelling that the Academy will be considering for the upcoming awards season.
Looking ahead, the timeline for the 98th Academy Awards is already set. Oscar nominations are expected to be announced on January 22, 2025, building anticipation for the final selection of nominees. The awards ceremony itself is scheduled for March 15, 2026, where the winners will be revealed and celebrated on the world stage. This timeline provides ample time for Academy members to view, discuss, and ultimately vote on the films that will be recognized for their excellence in filmmaking.
Navigating the Competitive Landscape
The path to an Oscar nomination is fraught with challenges, as countless films vie for the attention of Academy voters. “KPop Demon Hunters” faces stiff competition in the Best Animated Feature category from established animation studios like Disney and Pixar, as well as other independent animated films. To stand out, the film must continue to generate buzz and maintain its popularity among audiences and critics alike.
Similarly, “The Ugly Stepsister” must overcome the stigma often associated with horror films in the Academy’s eyes. While horror films have occasionally received recognition, they often face an uphill battle compared to more traditional dramatic or comedic fare. To succeed, “The Ugly Stepsister” must demonstrate exceptional artistry, compelling storytelling, and a unique perspective that resonates with Academy voters.
The success of “KPop Demon Hunters” and “The Ugly Stepsister” will depend on a variety of factors, including critical reception, audience engagement, and the effectiveness of their respective marketing campaigns. The films must also navigate the complex political landscape of the awards season, where lobbying and strategic campaigning can play a significant role in influencing the outcome.
Oscar Award Recognition: An Uphill Battle?
Ultimately, whether “KPop Demon Hunters” and “The Ugly Stepsister” become Oscar contenders remains to be seen. Their inclusion in the first batch of digital screeners is a positive sign, but it is only the first step in a long and arduous journey. Both films possess unique qualities that could appeal to Academy voters, but they also face significant challenges in a highly competitive field. As the awards season progresses, it will be fascinating to watch how these films fare and whether they can defy expectations to achieve Oscar glory.
