North Carolina -- January 27, 2026: The North Carolina Film Critics Association (NCFCA) has officially announced the winners of its 14th Annual Best in Cinema Awards, celebrating the pinnacle of performance, direction, and technical achievement in film. This year’s ceremony was defined by a historic performance from the film “Sinners,” which secured a staggering 10 honors—tying the record for most wins in a single year previously set by Oppenheimer.
A Night of Dominance for “Sinners”
Directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan, “Sinners” was the undisputed heavyweight of the awards. In addition to winning Best Narrative Film, the production earned Coogler the Best Director trophy and Jordan the Best Actor in a Leading Role title. The film’s sweep extended into nearly every major technical and storytelling category, including:
Best Original Screenplay
Best Acting Ensemble
Best Cinematography
Best Editing
Best Sound Design
Best Original Score
Netflix Standouts and Notable Wins
Beyond the “Sinners” sweep, Netflix titles saw a strong showing. “Frankenstein” took home four trophies, largely dominating technical craft categories like Best Production Design, Hair and Makeup, and Costume Design, while Jacob Elordi earned Best Actor in a Supporting Role.
The vibrant “KPop Demon Hunters” also made a splash, picking up three awards:
Best Animated Film
Best Vocal Performance in Animation: Arden Cho
Best Original Song: “Golden”
Other major highlights included:
Best Actress in a Leading Role: Jessie Buckley for her acclaimed performance in “Hamnet.”
Best Foreign Language Film: A tie between “It Was Just an Accident” and “Sentimental Value.”
Best Stunt Coordination: “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.”
Best Supporting Actress: Amy Madigan for “Weapons.”
Specialty Honors: Celebrating Local Roots and Unique Talents
The NCFCA presented three specialty awards this year to honor specific contributions to the industry and the state of North Carolina:
The Ken Hanke Memorial Tar Heel Award: Awarded to “Roofman,” recognizing its deep ties to North Carolina through local production and storytelling.
The Lifetime Achievement Award for Costume Design: Presented to Ruth E. Carter, honoring her legendary artistry and influence in cinematic history.
The Best in Fur Award (President’s Discretionary Honor): Awarded to Indy, the standout canine from “Good Boy,” celebrating the unique contributions of animal performers to film storytelling.
2025 NCFCA Best in Cinema: Full Category Winners
Best Narrative Film: Sinners
Best Documentary Film: The Perfect Neighbor
Best Animated Film: KPop Demon Hunters
Best Director: Ryan Coogler (Sinners)
Best Actor: Michael B. Jordan (Sinners)
Best Actress: Jessie Buckley (Hamnet)
Best Supporting Actor: Jacob Elordi (Frankenstein)
Best Supporting Actress: Amy Madigan (Weapons)
Best Acting Ensemble: Sinners
Best Adapted Screenplay: One Battle After Another
Best Special Effects: Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Directorial Debut: Eva Victor (Sorry, Baby)
Best Breakthrough Performance: Miles Caton (Sinners)
For more information on the North Carolina Film Critics Association and a complete list of winners, visit www.ncfilmcritics.org. For more local news, film reviews, and North Carolina stories, stay tuned to wnctimes.