Spirit Awards 2026: ‘Adolescence,’ ‘Train Dreams’ Compete for Top Honors
The 41st Film Independent Spirit Awards are set to take place in Los Angeles, showcasing notable talents and films in the independent sector. The event, livestreamed on YouTube, will air on Sunday at 5 p.m. ET, hosted by comedian Ego Nwodim, known for her work on “Saturday Night Live.”
Top Nominees for 2026 Spirit Awards
This year, numerous films are competing for top honors. Key contenders include:
- “Peter Hujar’s Day” – A biographical narrative about the famed photographer, played by Ben Whishaw, directed by Ira Sachs.
- “Train Dreams” – An adaptation of Denis Johnson’s work, featuring Joel Edgerton.
- “Sorry, Baby” – A poignant exploration of life post-assault, directed by Eva Victor.
New Venue and Charity Focus
This year’s celebration will be held at the Hollywood Palladium, shifting from its traditional location in Santa Monica, which is under renovation. The event acts as a fundraiser for Film Independent’s ongoing programs championing independent film and television.
Competing Performances
Several prominent actors are in the running for awards. Notable nominees include:
- Rose Byrne – Nominated for her role as a troubled mother in “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” and a contender for both a Spirit Award and an Oscar.
- Joel Edgerton – Competing for his portrayal in “Train Dreams.”
- Keke Palmer – Nominated for her performance in “One of Them Days.”
- Tessa Thompson – Recognized for her work in “Hedda.”
- Dylan O’Brien – Acknowledged for his role in “Twinless.”
- Ben Whishaw – Nominated for “Peter Hujar’s Day.”
Gender-Neutral Categories and More
In a move to promote inclusivity, the Spirit Awards adopted gender-neutral acting categories in 2022. Supporting performance nominees include:
- Naomi Ackie for “Sorry, Baby”
- Zoey Deutch for “Nouvelle Vague”
- Kirsten Dunst for “Roofman”
- Nina Hoss for “Hedda”
- Archie Madekwe for “Lurker”
International and Documentary Films
The international category features films such as:
- “Sirāt”
- “The Secret Agent”
- “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl”
In addition, the documentary prize will see films like:
- “Come See Me in the Good Light”
- “My Undesirable Friends: Part I — Last Air in Moscow”
- “The Perfect Neighbor”
Actors Honored
Ethan Hawke, nominated for his performance in “Blue Moon,” is also recognized at the Spirit Awards for his role in the series “The Lowdown.” Other nominees in the lead performance category include:
- Seth Rogen for “The Studio”
- Stephen Graham for “Adolescence”
- Noah Wyle for “The Pitt”
The Spirit Awards not only highlight outstanding film achievements but also reinforce the significance of independent cinema in today’s entertainment industry.
