The Directors Guild of America (DGA) has officially announced the nominees for the 78th Annual DGA Awards, spotlighting the most outstanding directing achievements in theatrical feature films released in 2025.
Often regarded as one of the strongest indicators of the Academy Awards’ Best Director race, the DGA nominations once again bring together a mix of industry veterans and bold new voices shaping contemporary cinema.
The winners will be revealed on February 7, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles.
Below is the complete nominees list for the theatrical feature film categories.
Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film — 2026 DGA Awards
This category honors directors for exceptional achievement in feature-length films intended for theatrical release.
Nominees:
- Paul Thomas Anderson — One Battle After Another
- Ryan Coogler — Sinners
- Guillermo del Toro — Frankenstein
- Josh Safdie — Marty Supreme
- Chloé Zhao — Hamnet
The lineup reflects a wide creative spectrum from literary adaptations and gothic reimaginings to character driven dramas and auteur-led visions. Multiple nominees are previous DGA and Academy Award winners, further heightening the prestige of this year’s race.
Michael Apted Award for First-Time Theatrical Feature Film Director
Named in honor of the late director Michael Apted, this category recognizes exceptional debut feature film directors making their first major impact in cinema.
Nominees:
- Hasan Hadi — The President’s Cake
- Harry Lighton — Pillion
- Charlie Polinger — The Plague
- Alex Russell — Lurker
- Eva Victor — Sorry, Baby
This category continues the DGA’s tradition of highlighting emerging filmmakers whose first works demonstrate strong artistic voice, originality, and narrative ambition.
The DGA Awards are widely considered one of the most reliable predictors of the Oscar Best Director winner. Historically, DGA winners have gone on to secure Academy Awards in the same category in a majority of cases.
When Are the Winners Announced?
- Event: 78th Annual Directors Guild of America Awards
- Date: February 7, 2026
- Location: Beverly Hilton, Los Angeles