All 7 Anime Films Eligible for 2026 Oscars Nomination

There are seven Japanese animated films now able to vie for Best Animated Feature at the 2026 Oscars last week. Each film highlights how far animation studios can stretch their creativity, with each studio offering a variety of animation genres and styles of storytelling.

On March 15, 2026, an Oscar will be awarded to whoever gets the honour to win with one of these seven films, alongside a special recognition to The Boy and the Heron. The collection represents popular franchises and original works by directors famous for telling unique stories.

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Anime Films Eligible for 2026 Oscars Nomination

1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

Director Haruo Sotozaki and the animation company ufotable have returned with another installment of the demon-slaying saga, what happens as Tanjiro Kamado takes on some of his biggest threats in the Infinity Castle arc.

There's been a lot of build-up to this Demon Slayer movie with great expectations based on the franchise's previous instalments, as well as on the increasing interest in the movie from millions of passionate Demon Slayer fans around the world. This film is expected to be a major contender for the 2026 Oscars based on its success and popularity.

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2. Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc

Studio MAPPA and director Tatsuya Yoshihara adapt one of the manga's most beloved storylines for the big screen. The Reze Arc explores complex themes of trust and betrayal through Denji's relationship with the mysterious Reze.

The film balances shocking violence with surprisingly tender character development. This theatrical release follows the successful first season that captivated audiences globally. As a 2026 Oscars contender, it represents modern anime's edgier creative direction.

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3. 100 Meters (Hyakuemu)

Kenji Iwaisawa is the director of this unique project from Rocky Mountain Studios, a company known for having an innovative aesthetic. Since Rocky Mountain Studios is an independent studio, it has a very fresh outlook on animation and has produced this project.

What we do know about the story behind this film, and what makes it stand out from all the other movies in the 2026 Oscars, is how ambitious the film is creatively. One of the defining characteristics of SWIM is that it captures the artistic spirit of independent animation.

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4. COLORFUL STAGE! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing

Producer Hiroyuki Hata and P.A. Works take on a unique concept in this movie. The Story follows Hatsune Miku, the digital singer, who faces an identity crisis when she cannot speak anymore.

The film will feature some awesome musical numbers that will show off impressive production value. It's a contender for Best Animated Feature at the 2026 Oscars and illustrates how anime has expanded its horizon when it comes to tackling unconventional stories.

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5. ChaO

The Creative Director Yasuhiro Aoki teams up with Studio 4°C, a place that is known for its out-of-the-box thinking with Animation, and they hope to impress audiences with their entry in the 2026 Oscars Awards.

There isn't much info yet, but we do know that it is yet again an ambitious project from this innovative team. Their films usually highlight philosophical themes through visually stunning images, and this entry adds extra weight to the list of anime films that are hoping to get recognised at this year's Academy Awards.

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6. Dragon Heart - Adventures Beyond This World

Isamu Imakake's direction alongside HS Pictures Studio has created a unique anime film that should appeal to families. Not only does this company have an excellent grasp on the art of animation, but they also use their creativity to design each character and world imaginatively.

Using fantasy elements, HS Pictures on this film offers families an adventure film to enjoy together while enjoying the excellence of animated works as part of their family.. Among the 2026 Oscars anime entries, it represents the genre's capacity for all-ages entertainment.

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7. Scarlet

Director Mamoru Hosoda and Studio Chizu are teaming up again for another tear-jerking family movie for the 2026 Oscars. Hosoda tends to make movies about family, growing up, and how we connect with others on an emotional level.

His previous movies were very popular around the world and received many awards. Together, this director and studio have created some of the most emotional scenes in anime.

Anime's got more than just the big blockbuster stuff going on, and these seven films prove it. The 2026 Oscars eligibility list is a good reminder that anime's now way more than just one style or one way of doing things.