Anime is stepping into the 2026 Academy Awards with one of its strongest lineups ever, a mix of blockbuster hits, viral sensations, and visually stunning titles that have dominated conversation across the world. From Demon Slayer’s monumental Infinity Castle arc to the rise of Hatsune Miku on the global stage, this year’s eligibility list signals something clear: anime is no longer a guest at the awards table, it’s becoming a major contender.
Below is a breakdown of the anime films eligible for Oscar consideration for 2026, using the most up-to-date confirmations circulating among anime outlets and fan communities.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, The Unstoppable Giant
It’s no surprise that Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle made the eligibility list. At this point, it would’ve been shocking not to see it included. The movie shattered expectations worldwide, even surpassing the Superman movie at several international box-office milestones, something fans still brag about.
The Infinity Castle arc is one of the most visually ambitious pieces of animation ever put to screen, and combined with the emotional gravity of the story, it stands as a legitimate Oscar threat. If this year’s Oscars are looking for spectacle + storytelling, Demon Slayer is arriving fully prepared.
Chainsaw Man: The Movie, Reze Arc, A Real Contender
Chainsaw Man enters the Oscars with BIG momentum.
Of course, Chainsaw Man Reze had to be here. This one is different, it isn’t just popular; it’s a cultural explosion. The Reze arc movie became the second-highest-rated film on all of MyAnimeList and the highest-rated anime film ever made on the platform. Combined with its strong box-office numbers, it has one of the most realistic chances of winning an Oscar. The Reze arc balances chaos, heartbreak, brutal action, and some of the best character development in modern anime. It absolutely has a realistic shot at a nomination, and some fans genuinely believe it could win.
Chainsaw Man isn’t just hype, it’s quality.
Scarlet: Beauty, Revenge, and Breathtaking Art
Scarlet takes a completely different approach.
This is a revenge story wrapped in a unique art style that instantly grabs attention. Its use of color, its painterly backgrounds, and its emotional intensity make it stand out visually from every other film on the list.
Where Chainsaw Man hits with violence, Scarlet hits with atmosphere.
Its visual palette alone makes it a strong artistic candidate, especially for voters who appreciate animation as an art form rather than just entertainment.
100 Meters: A Sports Anime With Heart
100 Meters may not be as explosive as Demon Slayer or Chainsaw Man, but it brings something just as meaningful: emotional clarity and beautiful animation.
The film focuses on running, pushing the limits of endurance, speed, and personal struggle. Its art direction has been widely praised for its clean, fluid motion and powerful race sequences.
Sports fans especially will find this one worth watching, and depending on how voters respond to grounded, inspirational storytelling, it might be a quiet dark horse.
The Legend of Hei 2: A Return to Spirit-World Fantasy
Even though the first Legend of Hei released in 2019, the sequel arrived this year with a fresh mission and deeper world-building. After a massive attack disrupts the fragile peace between humans and spirits, Hei and Lu Yi, the last disciples of Wushan, must uncover conspiracies threatening both sides.
The film blends action, spiritual fantasy, creature design, and emotional stakes in a way that bridges Eastern folklore with modern animation. Its return to the Oscars eligibility list shows that non-Japan Asian animation is also rising in global recognition.
Chao: Romance, Myth, and Mesmerizing Color Work
Chao is centered around a romance between a human and a mermaid, but the film is far from typical. Its animation follows the same breathtaking visual approach seen in Scarlet, with fluid motion, surreal underwater sequences, and color compositions that feel almost dreamlike.
It’s the kind of movie that doesn’t need explosions or big fights to win attention.
Instead, it charms with intimacy, mood, and emotional warmth, and Academy voters often appreciate films with poetic or mythical storytelling.
Hatsune Miku Movie:A Global Icon Steps Into Awards Season
Yes, the Hatsune Miku movie is eligible too.
And honestly? It feels like destiny.
Hatsune Miku has been a worldwide digital idol for years, but this film pushed her cultural impact into a new era. The movie exploded in popularity, reaching both long-time fans and completely new audiences. The blend of music, fantasy, and emotional beats made it the kind of film that could surprise voters who weren’t expecting an idol-driven anime to go this hard.
If Miku wins, it’ll represent a major shift in how the Academy views art, fandom, and digital culture.
What to Watch, And What Could Happen
If the Oscars nominations hold to tradition, five films for Best Animated Feature, it’s likely that at least 2–3 of the anime contenders might make the cut. (for what it’s worth):
- Strong Chances: Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, Chainsaw Man – Reze Arc, thanks to massive popularity, polished animation, and global distribution.
- Wildcard / Artistic Vote: Scarlet, Chao, given fresh or different styles; may appeal to voters looking beyond action for artistry.
- Underdogs / Surprise Picks: COLORFUL STAGE! The Movie, 100 Meters, may capture niche votes if they deliver strong storytelling or unique visuals.
Even if none win, the fact they are eligible is big.
Why This Matters, Even Beyond the Awards
For fans, this recognition means anime is finally getting its seat at the global cinema table. For creators, animators, writers, studios, it’s a call to aim higher.
And for global audiences: this could lead to more anime films with larger budgets, international distribution, and stories that speak beyond Japan. A win at the Oscars isn’t just about a trophy, it’s about opening doors, broadening reach, and celebrating animation as a universal art.
What do you think? Which anime on the eligible list deserves to win? Share your favorites and why in the comments below.