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Oscars Score Shortlist: Surprises and Snubs Emerge
17 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Three women earned spots on the original score shortlist.
- Twenty films advance from 135 submissions, lowest in a decade.
- Notable omissions include works by Michael Giacchino and Daniel Blumberg.
The Academy Awards' Best Original Score shortlist has been revealed, showcasing a competitive field with notable inclusions and surprising exclusions. Among the recognized composers are Lesley Barber, Laura Karpman, and Academy Award winner Hildur Guðnadóttir for her work on "Hedda." Other standout scores include contributions to "Sirât" and "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery."
This year's shortlist sees 20 films advancing from a record low of 135 submissions, reflecting a tightening race. Significant omissions have sparked discussion, including acclaimed works by Michael Giacchino and the absence of last year's winner, Daniel Blumberg, for "The Testament of Ann Lee."
Music Branch members will now determine the final nominees. The process began with an eligible pool of 135 scores, with Oscar nomination voting scheduled to open on January 12, 2026. Final nominations are set to be announced on January 22, 2026.
