Oscars 2026: Early Best Picture Contenders to Watch

Even with the dust barely settled from the last Academy Awards, early whispers for the 2026 Oscars are circulating. While it’s exceptionally early, initial betting odds offer a glimpse into potential Best Picture contenders. As the cinematic year unfolds, these frontrunners will be ones to watch.

BEO Betting Odds Point to Avatar: Fire and Ash as the Dominant Frontrunner

Currently, BEO Betting Odds overwhelmingly indicate James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash is the film to beat. The third instalment in the sci-fi saga is on a formidable pace for Best Picture, with current BEO Betting Odds at a short 1.3, and a probability of 76.92%. This strong positioning suggests confidence in its potential to resonate with voters, likely building on its predecessors’ technical mastery.  The film’s scale and promise of cinematic innovation place it firmly in the early spotlight.

For the latest odds breakdown, visit betentodds.com.

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Runner-Up: Wicked: For Good Waiting in the Wings

While Avatar: Fire and Ash leads, BEO Betting Odds identify Wicked: For Good as the main challenger. As the designated runner-up betting option, the second part of the musical fantasy adaptation is generating significant buzz. The stage musical’s enduring popularity, a star-studded cast, and the promise of a visually spectacular production position Wicked: For Good as a strong candidate. Its success will likely depend on translating theatrical magic into cinematic gold and critical reception.

The Dark Horse: Zootopia 2 Hopping into Contention

In the unpredictable Oscars world, BEO Betting Odds identify Zootopia 2 as an intriguing dark horse with a 7.69% probability for Best Picture. While animated films often face an uphill battle in this category, the original Zootopia‘s success and Disney’s animation track record mean this sequel cannot be dismissed. If Zootopia 2 delivers a compelling narrative with the original’s wit and social commentary, it could become a serious contender.

Expert Predictions: Awaiting Further Developments

At this early stage, specific expert predictions for the 2026 Best Picture race are beginning to emerge, though a full consensus is still months away.  Film critics and awards prognosticators typically await festival premieres, wider releases, and the development of critical consensus before offering more definitive analyses. As more films are screened throughout 2025 and early 2026, a clearer picture based on critical reception, beyond initial betting odds, will form. Several publications and Oscar-watching communities have started listing potential contenders, with films like After the Hunt, Hamnet, and Frankenstein also appearing in early discussions alongside those highlighted by BEO Betting Odds.

Final Thoughts: An Avatar Coronation or an Unfolding Drama?

While BEO Betting Odds suggest Avatar: Fire and Ash is the clear favourite for Best Picture at the 2026 Oscars, the journey to awards night is long. The film industry is dynamic, with sleeper hits often emerging later to shake up the order. With Wicked: For Good poised as a strong challenger and Zootopia 2 a potential surprise, the race is far from over. However, based on these early betting indicators, James Cameron’s next Pandora epic is the benchmark. The coming months will reveal if these odds hold or if new cinematic narratives will rewrite the script.