Outstanding Film
The Outstanding Film category honors the producers behind this year’s most impactful and extraordinary films. Each nominated work exemplifies excellence in storytelling, creativity, and cultural significance. Here’s a closer look at the nominees:
Challengers
Producers: Luca Guadagnino, Rachel O’Connor, Amy Pascal & Zendaya
Nominations: 2
Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers is a dynamic exploration of love, rivalry, and ambition in the world of professional tennis. With sharp direction and a stellar performance from Zendaya, the film captivates audiences through its layered characters and emotional depth. This is the first Bolt nomination for producers Luca Guadagnino and Rachel O’Connor, the second nomination and second in this category for Amy Pascal, and the fourth nomination but first in this category for Zendaya, who is also nominated for Outstanding Lead Performance.
Exhibiting Forgiveness
Producers: Stephanie Allain, Derek Cianfrance, Sean Cotton, Titus Kaphar & Jamie Patricof
Nominations: 9
Exhibiting Forgiveness is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful drama that examines themes of redemption and human connection. With its compelling narrative and innovative direction by Titus Kaphar, the film has been a standout this awards season. This is the first Bolt nomination for producers Sean Cotton, Jamie Patricof, and Derek Cianfrance, the fourth nomination and fourth in this category for Stephanie Allain, and the fifth nomination but first in this category for Titus Kaphar, who also earned four additional nominations this year, including Outstanding Director.
Nickel Boys
Producers: Joslyn Barnes, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner & David Levin
Nominations: 13
Adapted from Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Nickel Boys tells the harrowing story of injustice and resilience in a segregated reform school. Its remarkable production has garnered 13 nominations, the most of any film this year. This is the first nomination for producer David Levin and for Joslyn Barnes, who is also nominated for Outstanding Screenplay. For Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner, this marks their fifth nominations overall and fourth in this category. They previously won in this category for 12 Years a Slave (2014), Selma (2015), and Moonlight (2017).
The Piano Lesson
Producers: Todd Black & Denzel Washington
Nominations: 12
A powerful adaptation of August Wilson’s iconic play, The Piano Lesson brings to life the story of legacy, family, and identity in 1930s Pittsburgh. With 12 nominations, including Outstanding Ensemble and Outstanding Screenplay, the film is a leading contender this year. This is the sixth nomination for Todd Black and his sixth in this category, having previously won for Antwone Fisher (2003). For Denzel Washington, this is his 24th nomination and fifth in this category, with a prior win also for Antwone Fisher (2003).
Sing Sing
Producers: Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar & Monique Walton
Nominations: 6
Sing Sing is a heartfelt tale of hope and humanity, set within the confines of a prison theater program. The film’s intimate storytelling and stellar ensemble cast have earned it six nominations, including Outstanding Ensemble. This is the first Bolt nomination for producers Clint Bentley and Monique Walton, while Greg Kwedar secures his second nomination this year with a nomination as the Casting Director for Sing Sing for Outstanding Ensemble.