Variety’s awards circuit, curated by chief awards editor Clayton Davis, has updated its official Oscar predictions for the 99th Academy Awards. The publication notes that the Best Casting category is only in its second year and suggests that if voters simply choose the splashiest ensemble from the Best Picture front-runner, the purpose of the award might be flawed.
Two films are highlighted as standing out in the category. Siân Heder’s Apple drama "Being Heumann," which depicts Judy Heumann and the 1977 San Francisco sit-in for disability rights, features a cast of more than 20 disabled actors. Casting directors Bernie Telsey and Adam Caldwell included many actors with little or no experience around breakout Ruth Madeley. Variety describes this as a bigger swing than any other star-studded ensemble.
The Netflix epic "La Bola Negra" by Los Javis is also noted for its discovery of talent. Casting directors Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, working with Eva Leira and Yolanda Serrano, assembled a cast featuring pop singer Guitarricadelafuente in his acting debut alongside newcomers Milo Quifes and Carlos González. These performers are surrounded by legends Penélope Cruz and a Spanish-speaking Glenn Close.
The awards timeline continues with the Governors Awards on Sunday, Nov. 15, to present honorary Oscars to Glenn Close and Ridley Scott. Preliminary voting for the Oscar shortlist in 12 categories is scheduled for Dec. 7-11, with the shortlist announcement on Tuesday, Dec. 15.
Following the close of the eligibility period on Dec. 31, 2026, nominations voting will occur Jan. 11-15, 2027. Official nominations will be announced on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2027. The 99th Oscars will be hosted by Conan O’Brien on Sunday, March 14, 2027, airing live at 7 p.m. ET on ABC from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.
