Netflix and Disney+ are battling for exclusive streaming rights to 2026 Oscar-nominated films, reshaping industry strategies, content offerings, and subscriber growth amid intensifying streaming wars.
Netflix and Disney+ have ignited a fierce competition over exclusive streaming rights to 2026 Oscar-nominated films, a move that is reshaping the entertainment landscape and intensifying the ongoing streaming wars, according to Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.
The battle for premium content has reached a new high as both platforms aggressively pursue deals with major studios and independent filmmakers. This comes ahead of the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 2026 in Los Angeles, where streaming exclusivity is expected to play a pivotal role in audience reach and revenue.
Netflix, which has traditionally invested heavily in original productions, is now focusing on acquiring post-theatrical streaming rights for high-profile Oscar contenders. Disney+, leveraging its vast studio network, is countering with exclusive deals for films distributed by subsidiaries like Searchlight Pictures and 20th Century Studios.
Background: The Rise of Streaming Wars
The streaming wars began in earnest in the late 2010s, with platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu competing for subscribers. The entrance of Disney+ in 2019, followed by HBO Max, Apple TV+, and others, fragmented the market and increased the demand for exclusive content, as reported by The Verge.
By 2025, the number of global streaming subscribers surpassed 1.5 billion, according to data from Statista. This growth has driven platforms to prioritize exclusive film and series releases, especially those with awards buzz, to differentiate themselves and retain viewers.
Key Details: The 2026 Oscar Race
This year, several Oscar-nominated films, including 'The Last Symphony,' 'Neon Skies,' and 'Echoes of Tomorrow,' have become the center of a bidding war. Sources from Deadline confirm that Netflix secured the streaming rights to 'The Last Symphony' for a record $120 million, outbidding Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.
Disney+ responded by locking in exclusive rights to 'Neon Skies,' a critically acclaimed sci-fi drama produced by Searchlight Pictures, for an undisclosed sum. Both platforms are investing in aggressive marketing campaigns to promote their Oscar film lineups, aiming to capitalize on awards season buzz.
Impact on Studios and Filmmakers
Major studios are leveraging the competition to negotiate higher licensing fees and better terms for their films. Independent filmmakers are also benefiting, as streaming platforms seek diverse content to appeal to global audiences, according to The Wrap.
However, some industry insiders express concern that the focus on exclusivity could limit audience access, especially for international viewers without subscriptions to multiple platforms. The Motion Picture Association (MPA) has called for greater collaboration and content sharing to ensure wider reach.
Subscriber Growth and Market Shifts
Netflix reported a 7% increase in global subscribers in Q1 2026, attributing the growth to its Oscar-nominated content slate. Disney+ saw a 5% rise, driven by exclusive premieres and family-friendly offerings, as per company earnings reports.
Analysts from Morgan Stanley suggest that the battle for Oscar films is not just about prestige but also about driving long-term subscriber loyalty. Exclusive access to award-winning content is seen as a key differentiator in an increasingly crowded market.
Consumer Reactions and Viewing Habits
A recent survey by Nielsen found that 63% of respondents are more likely to subscribe to a platform offering exclusive access to Oscar-nominated films. However, 41% expressed frustration with content fragmentation and the rising cost of multiple subscriptions.
Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit have seen trending discussions about the streaming wars, with users debating the merits of each service and sharing tips for accessing content across regions.
What’s Next: The Future of Streaming Exclusivity
Industry experts predict that the fight for exclusive Oscar content will intensify ahead of the 2027 awards season. There is speculation that platforms may form temporary alliances or pursue joint ventures to share high-profile releases and reduce subscriber churn.
Regulators in the US and EU are monitoring the situation, with potential antitrust concerns if exclusive deals limit consumer choice. The outcome of these investigations could shape the next phase of the streaming wars.
Sources
Sources for this article include Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, The Verge, Statista, The Wrap, Morgan Stanley, Nielsen, and company earnings reports.
Sources: Information sourced from Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, The Verge, Statista, The Wrap, Morgan Stanley, and Nielsen.