The 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards nominations were announced on December 3, 2025, with 'Peter Hujar’s Day' leading the film categories with five nods. Netflix's 'Adolescence' and BBC's 'Mr Loverman' topped the television side with four nominations each. The awards ceremony is set for February 15, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium.
Overview
The nominations for the 40th annual Film Independent Spirit Awards highlight independent achievements in film and television from the eligibility period of October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Films must have budgets under $30 million, with a $1 million cap for the John Cassavetes Award. Television categories focus on new scripted and non-scripted series in their first season.
'Peter Hujar’s Day,' a biographical drama directed by Ira Sachs, earned the most film nominations, including best feature, best director, best lead performance for Ben Whishaw, and best supporting performance for Rebecca Hall. Trailing with four nods each are 'Train Dreams' (best director for Clint Bentley), 'Blue Sun Palace,' 'Sorry, Baby,' 'Lurker,' and 'One of Them Days.' 'The Plague' and 'Twinless' received three nominations apiece.
Television Highlights
In TV, 'Adolescence' secured best new scripted series, along with lead performance for Stephen Graham, supporting for Erin Doherty, and breakthrough for Owen Cooper. 'Mr Loverman' also earned best new scripted series, with lead for Lennie James and supporting nods for Ariyon Bakare and Sharon D. Clarke.
Other notable TV nominees include 'Forever' and 'North of North' for best new scripted series, and documentaries like 'Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time' for best new non-scripted series.
Key Quote
Brenda Robinson, acting president of Film Independent, stated: “The distinguished and inspired work produced by our nominated artists this year shows both the incredible breadth and the essential nature of independent art being created today. These artists brilliantly demonstrate that there is no limit to the places where storytellers are able to find drama, humor and beauty, all while challenging audiences to stay engaged and curious, to protect the space where independent art can thrive.”
The full list spans categories like best first feature, screenplay, performances, cinematography, and emerging filmmaker awards, celebrating diverse independent voices.