New Delhi, Jan. 5 -- With the Critics Choice Awards 2026 set to be handed out, the final outcomes remain wide open. While nominations and industry momentum offer clues, nothing is confirmed until envelopes are opened.

Based on critical reception, nomination strength and awards-season patterns, here is our prediction slate, with an alternative contender listed in every category.

Prediction: One Battle After Another

Alternative: Sinners

Prediction: Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)

Alternative: Ryan Coogler (Sinners)

Prediction: Sinners

Alternative: Marty Supreme

Prediction: Paul Thomas Anderson - One Battle After Another

Alternative: Guillermo del Toro - Frankenstein (Netflix)

Prediction: Leonardo DiCaprio (One Batt...