Full Breakdown
Historic Nominations for "Sinners" at the 26th Annual Black Reel Awards
12/19/2025, 6:29:55 AM
Record-Breaking Nominations
Ryan Coogler’s film "Sinners" has achieved a historic milestone by securing 21 nominations at the 26th Annual Black Reel Awards, the highest number in the awards' history. This includes nominations for Outstanding Film, Outstanding Director for Coogler, and Outstanding Lead Performance for Michael B. Jordan. The film also garnered four nominations in the Original Song category, showcasing its broad appeal across multiple facets of filmmaking.
Competing Films
"Sinners" leads a competitive field, with Spike Lee’s "Highest 2 Lowest" following with 11 nominations, including standout performances from Denzel Washington and A$AP Rocky. Other notable contenders include R.T. Thorne’s "40 Acres" and Rungano Nyoni’s "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl," each receiving nine nominations, while "One of Them Days," featuring Keke Palmer and SZA, earned eight nominations. Nia DaCosta’s "Hedda," starring Tessa Thompson, received six nominations, including for Outstanding Film.
Significance of the Awards
The Black Reel Awards, founded in 2000, aim to honor excellence in film and television by African Americans and those of the African diaspora. Tim Gordon, the founder and director, emphasized the awards' role in celebrating the resilience and creativity of Black storytellers. He stated, “This year’s nominees represent the very best of our culture, creativity, and community.”
Milestone Achievements
This year's nominations highlight several significant achievements within the industry. "Sinners" is recognized as the most-nominated horror and musical film in Black Reel Awards history. Additionally, Ryan and Zinzi Coogler are noted as only the second husband-and-wife producing duo nominated together for Outstanding Film. Tessa Thompson joins a select group of actresses nominated as both a producer and actor for the same film, while A$AP Rocky makes history as the first male hip-hop artist nominated for both Breakthrough and a main acting award.
Upcoming Ceremony
Winners of the Black Reel Awards will be announced during a virtual ceremony scheduled for February 16, 2026. This event will not only celebrate the achievements of the nominees but also continue to highlight the thriving landscape of Black cinema and television.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Founder and director Tim Gordon summed up the moment best: “The Black Reel Awards have always been about celebrating the brilliance and resilience of Black storytellers.” — Tim Gordon, Founder and Director of the Black Reel Awards
- “Sinners said yes to all of it.” — Source not specified
Conclusion
The 26th Annual Black Reel Awards nominations reflect a significant moment for Black filmmakers and artists, with "Sinners" leading the charge. As the awards ceremony approaches, the film industry anticipates a celebration of creativity and cultural contributions that resonate deeply within the community.
