The 2026 Academy Awards Best Actress race has already seen its frontrunner emerge, with Jessie Buckley dominating precursor awards and positioning herself as a near-certainty for the Oscar. However, the performances of the other nominees, while not as dominant, offer a rich mix of acting talent, emotional depth, and narrative complexity. This article ranks the five nominees from worst to best, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each performance.

5. Kate Hudson in Song Sung Blue

Kate Hudson’s portrayal in Song Sung Blue has received mixed reactions, with some critics noting that while her early scenes are charming and relatable, the film’s dramatic turn later on overshadows her performance. Hudson’s character, handling the complexities of love and life in middle age, is compelling in the film’s first half. However, the film’s narrative choices, particularly in the second act, frame her performance in a way that feels less impactful. Despite this, her ability to balance movie star allure with down-to-earth warmth remains a highlight.

4. Emma Stone in Bugonia

Emma Stone’s performance in Bugonia is a masterclass in tonal control and dramatic precision. Working with director Yorgos Lanthimos, Stone has demonstrated her versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. In this film, she portrays a character whose corporate, media-trained behavior is so inhuman it almost feels alien. Her detailed performance, paired with Jesse Plemons’ equally strong portrayal, showcases the depth of her acting range. Stone’s performance is both captivating and precise, earning her a fifth Oscar nomination.

3. Jessie Buckley in Hamnet

Jessie Buckley’s role in Hamnet is nothing short of extraordinary. Her portrayal of a grieving parent is so raw and emotionally charged that it’s almost unbearable to watch. Buckley’s ability to convey deep, complex emotions with minimal dialogue is a testament to her acting prowess. While the film’s first half does not match the intensity of its second, Buckley’s performance remains a standout. Her work in this film is a strong contender for the Oscar, and her emotional depth will likely resonate with voters.

2. Renate Reinsve in Sentimental Value

Renate Reinsve’s performance in Sentimental Value is emotionally textured and deeply moving. One of the most memorable moments in the film is her portrayal of a character experiencing an attack of stage fright, a small but powerful scene that captures the essence of her performance. Reinsve’s ability to convey emotion through subtle expressions and minimal dialogue is exceptional. Her character’s emotional depth is palpable, making her one of the most compelling nominees in this year’s race.

1. Rose Byrne in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You

Rose Byrne’s performance in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You is the standout of the year. Playing a woman clinging to her last shred of sanity, Byrne’s portrayal is both haunting and mesmerizing. The film’s use of extreme close-ups highlights the intensity of her performance, capturing every microexpression and thought. Byrne’s ability to convey deep emotional turmoil with such precision is a testament to her acting skills. Despite the film’s independent nature, Byrne’s performance is as good as it gets, and it’s hard to imagine anyone else winning the Oscar over her.

The 2026 Oscars Best Actress race, while seemingly decided in favor of Jessie Buckley, offers a range of performances that are worthy of recognition. From Kate Hudson’s relatable charm to Rose Byrne’s haunting portrayal of emotional turmoil, each nominee brings something unique to the table. The Academy’s decision will undoubtedly reflect not only the quality of the performances but also the narrative arcs and emotional depth each film brings to the screen.