The Visual Effects Society (VES) has revealed the contenders for its 2026 awards ceremony, acknowledging exceptional work in 25 diverse categories spanning cinema, television, special venue presentations, technological breakthroughs, and student projects. This year's nominations highlight the incredible artistry and innovation within the visual effects industry.
"Avatar: Fire and Ash," from Lightstorm Entertainment and 20th Century Studios, stands out with a remarkable 10 nominations, notably for its photoreal visual effects. Other films competing for this prestigious award include "F1: The Movie" by Warner Bros. Pictures and Apple Original Films, "Jurassic World Rebirth" from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, "The Lost Bus" from Apple Original Films, Apple Studios, Blumhouse Productions, and Comet Pictures, and DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures' "How To Train Your Dragon." In the animated film section, Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation's "KPop Demon Hunters," Disney and Pixar's "Elio," and Disney's "Zootopia 2" each garnered five nominations. For episodic content, Netflix's "Stranger Things," HBO's "The Last of Us," and Apple TV+ and BBC Studios' "Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age" received four nominations each.
VES members selected these nominees through a global event featuring numerous in-person and virtual judging panels. The 24th annual VES Awards ceremony is scheduled for February 25 at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. This year, Jerry Bruckheimer will be honored with the VES Lifetime Achievement Award, and Sir Richard Taylor, co-founder and chief creative officer of Weta Workshop, will receive the VES Visionary Award, celebrating their profound contributions to the visual effects landscape.
This year's Visual Effects Society Awards nominations showcase the boundless creativity and relentless pursuit of excellence within the visual effects community. It is a testament to the artists and technologists who push the boundaries of storytelling, creating immersive and unforgettable experiences for audiences worldwide. Their dedication not only enriches the entertainment industry but also inspires future generations to explore the potential of digital artistry, fostering a vibrant and innovative future for visual effects.