The 52nd Telluride Film Festival wrapped over Labor Day weekend, bringing with it a fresh wave of Oscar buzz and cinematic surprises from the Rockies. As always, the intimate festival served as a key launching pad for awards contenders, and this year, three titles clearly emerged as frontrunners: Hamnet, Sentimental Value, and Sinners.
Adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel, Hamnet was met with acclaim for its emotional depth and sweeping visuals. Jessie Buckley’s performance as Shakespeare’s wife is already being hailed as a potential Best Actress nominee, adding another standout role to her growing list of accolades. Directed with quiet power, the film’s historical resonance and intimate storytelling struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.
Sentimental Value, from director Joachim Trier, also made waves with its delicate portrayal of grief and human connection. Renate Reinsve, reuniting with Trier after their success in The Worst Person in the World, delivers a nuanced, heartbreaking performance that places her firmly in the Best Actress conversation. The film’s poetic tone and strong emotional undercurrent make it a strong contender across several categories.
Meanwhile, Sinners, a gritty morality tale with a standout ensemble cast, continued its rise after an impressive Venice debut. Its Telluride reception only solidified its status as a Best Picture hopeful, with particular attention on its sharp screenplay and ensemble performances.
Beyond the screenings, Telluride 2025 had its usual charm: major names like Margot Robbie, Ryan Coogler, Oprah Winfrey, and Bruce Springsteen attended not as promoters, but as genuine film lovers. The festival opened with moments of quiet reverence — from Chloé Zhao’s group meditation to Jesse Plemons serenading an audience. Even Adam Sandler and Emma Stone took time to pose for photos with local schoolchildren, underscoring the festival’s unique blend of celebrity and small-town warmth.
With Venice still ongoing and Toronto around the corner, the awards picture will continue to evolve. But Telluride has once again done what it does best: spotlight strong, emotionally resonant films that will shape the months ahead. As it stands, Hamnet, Sentimental Value, and Sinners are the titles to beat — and the Oscar race is officially on.
