Nordic Triumph at the 2026 Academy Awards

The 2026 Academy Awards became a milestone night for Nordic cinema as films from Norway, Denmark, and Sweden all took home Oscars—marking one of the most significant collective achievements in the region’s film history.

Norway celebrated a historic first when Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value won the Oscar for Best International Feature Film. Norwegian Film Institute CEO Kjersti Mo, attending the ceremony with Minister of Culture and Equality Lubna Jaffery, emphasized the importance of long-term artistic freedom and Nordic collaboration in making such success possible. With nine nominations, Sentimental Value also highlighted the strength of Norway’s creative community and its growing international standing.

Denmark made history of its own as David Borenstein’s Mr. Nobody Against Putin secured the country’s first-ever Oscar for Best Documentary Feature. Produced by Helle Faber and Made in Copenhagen, the film’s victory underscored the global impact of independent documentary filmmaking. Danish Film Institute CEO Tine Fischer noted that the win demonstrates the extraordinary quality of Danish creative talent and the continued international demand for Nordic expertise.

Sweden also shone at the ceremony, with composer Ludwig Göransson winning Best Original Score for Sinners. This marks his third Oscar in the category and reaffirms his position as one of the world’s most influential contemporary film composers.

Across three countries and multiple genres, Nordic filmmakers showcased the artistic ambition, political courage, and creative innovation that define the region’s cinematic identity. The Five Nordics extends warm congratulations to all nominees and winners for an unforgettable night that will resonate across the industry for years to come.