7 Anime Confirmed to Be Nominated for the 2026 Oscar in the Animated Feature Category

The popularity of anime has solidified its position in the international film scene, with the Academy Awards (Oscars) being the pinnacle of recognition, following the wins of Spirited Away and The Boy and the Heron. Currently, attention is focused on the potential nominations from Japan. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has released a list of films eligible for the Best Animated Feature category at the 98th Oscars in 2026, and that year is expected to be highly competitive.

Good news for anime fans, as seven (7) major and independent anime film titles have been confirmed to be on that long list of eligible films. This strongly indicates that anime continues to dominate and is ready to compete fiercely on the global stage against major Western animation studios like Disney and Pixar. These seven films consist of adaptations of popular franchises and works from renowned directors.

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1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle (credit: x.com/@DemonSlayerUSA)

This film continues the epic story of the Demon Slayer Corps and is one of the most anticipated titles. With massive global popularity and the animation quality of ufotable, which is recognized as one of the best, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle clearly stands as one of the strongest candidates from Japan. The intense story and stunning visuals are its main selling points.

2. Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc

Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc (credit: x.com/@ImNotThatGloomy)

After a huge success with its television series, Chainsaw Man now comes in film format adapting the highly popular Reze Arc among manga fans. Produced by studio MAPPA, this film offers a unique combination of brutal action, dark comedy, and deep emotional elements. The presence of Chainsaw Man adds to the list of shonen adaptation films that are starting to be taken seriously in Hollywood.

3. Scarlet

Scarlet (credit: x.com/@StudioChizu)

Directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by Studio Chizu, Scarlet brings great expectations. Hosoda is a familiar name at the Oscars, after his film Mirai was nominated. Hosoda's works are known for their strong emotional storytelling and themes about family, technology, and growth. Scarlet is expected to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor's success.

4. ChaO

ChaO (credit: x.com/@MangaMoguraRE)

This film from director Yasuhiro Aoki and Studio 4°C is a more independent entry but no less intriguing. Studio 4°C is often known for its works that feature a unique and experimental visual style. Although the plot details may not be as popular as other franchise films, such films often catch the attention of Oscar juries due to their originality and artistic innovation.

5. COLORFUL STAGE! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing

A Miku Who Can't Sing (credit: x.com/@GKIDSfilms)

Adapted from the Proseka game world featuring Vocaloid Hatsune Miku, this film offers a unique narrative around music and the challenges of a character struggling to find her voice. Although originating from a game, the story is predicted to touch on universal themes of passion and self-fulfillment, which could be a strong appeal.

6. 100 Meters (Hyakuemu)

100 Meters (credit: x.com/@setsunavie)

Directed by Kenji Iwaisawa, known for rotoscoping animated films like On-Gaku: Our Sound, 100 Meters is likely to offer a different visual experience from the films on this list. Animated films using unconventional techniques like this are often appreciated by the Academy for their artistic boldness.

7. Dragon Heart - Adventures Beyond This World

Dragon Heart (credit: x.com/@PopHorrorNews)

This fantasy film by director Isamu Imakake adds to the list of anime films that have passed. The fantasy genre always holds a special place in the hearts of viewers and judges, and this film is expected to present a rich adventure with stunning visuals.

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