Golden Globes 2026: Anxiety‑Driven Films and TV Shows Expected to Dominate Nominations

Key Points

• Golden Globes nominations will be announced December 8, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET.
• Films and series exploring themes of anxiety are projected to lead the race.
• Leonardo DiCaprio’s One Battle After Another is a top contender across major categories.
• Streaming hits like KPop Demon Hunters, Adolescence, and Severance are expected to score multiple nods.
• The ceremony, hosted by Nikki Glaser, airs January 11, 2026.

Anxiety‑Themed Storytelling Takes Center Stage

As the entertainment industry awaits the 2026 Golden Globes nominations, a clear trend has emerged: films and television series centered on anxiety, uncertainty, and emotional turmoil are poised to dominate the ballot. With the announcement set for December 8, 2025, anticipation is building around several standout titles that have resonated with audiences throughout the year.

DiCaprio’s One Battle After Another Leads the Film Race

Among the strongest contenders is One Battle After Another, starring Leonardo DiCaprio in one of his most talked‑about performances in recent years. The political drama examines anxiety through the lens of national unrest and personal unraveling, positioning it for nominations in acting, directing, and writing categories.

The film is currently available on streaming platforms at theatrical pricing and will return to select IMAX theaters for a one‑week engagement beginning December 11, 2025.

Other Films Generating Awards Buzz

Several additional titles are expected to make a strong showing:

Sentimental Value

Joachim Trier’s emotional drama follows a strained relationship between a troubled actress and her distant father. Renate Reinsve delivers a standout lead performance, supported by Elle Fanning.

Sinners

Released in April, this supernatural‑meets‑social‑commentary thriller has become one of the year’s cultural touchstones.

Hamnet

A literary adaptation with growing awards momentum.

KPop Demon Hunters

The Netflix hit, which debuted in June, has built a passionate young fanbase and remains a contender in genre and ensemble categories.

Weapons

Featuring a chilling performance from Aunt Gladys, the film has been praised for its unsettling portrayal of societal anxieties.

Television: Anxiety Narratives Dominate the Field

On the TV side, several series exploring psychological tension and societal pressure are expected to secure nominations.

Severance

The workplace‑dystopia drama continues to earn acclaim for its sharp critique of corporate culture.

Adolescence

Netflix’s breakout hit about a teenager entangled in a murder investigation is likely to appear across multiple categories.

Other notable contenders include:

• Pluribus
• The Last of Us
• The Pitt

Each series offers a distinct perspective on anxiety, particularly within the American health care system.

Fan favorites such as The White Lotus, The Bear, and Only Murders in the Building are also expected to collect multiple nominations, adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s race.

Golden Globes Ceremony Details

The 2026 Golden Globes will be hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser and will air on January 11, 2026. With anxiety‑themed storytelling dominating both film and television, this year’s nominations are expected to spark lively discussion across the industry.