The nominations, revealed by the Critics Choice Association, mark the first major recognition for documentary features this awards cycle, shining a spotlight on a diverse array of stories and cinematic achievements. DuVernay's '14th,' which recently garnered acclaim by closing the New York Film Festival, leads the field, earning nods in key categories including Best Documentary Feature and Best Political Documentary. The film's strong showing underscores its critical reception and potential impact.

Following closely are other notable documentaries, with 'NAZA' and 'You Can See Everything' also securing multiple nominations across various categories, signaling them as strong contenders in the race for recognition. The CCDA aims to celebrate the vital role documentaries play in shaping understanding and inspiring audiences.

The winners will be unveiled at a star-studded gala event scheduled for Sunday, November 8, 2026, at The Edison Ballroom in Manhattan. The evening will be hosted by popular TV personality Ross Mathews, bringing together leading filmmakers, industry professionals, and special guests to honor excellence in the genre.

Beyond the competitive categories, the Critics Choice Documentary Awards will also present two significant honorary accolades. Acclaimed director Ron Howard will be honored with the Critics Choice Impact Award, recognizing his profound influence and commitment to nonfiction storytelling, which has significantly broadened the reach and evolution of the documentary form. Additionally, visionary filmmaker Jehane Noujaim is set to receive the prestigious Pennebaker Award. This award, named in tribute to the pioneering documentarian D.A. Pennebaker and presented by his widow and collaborator Chris Hegedus, celebrates filmmakers whose careers have made a lasting contribution to the art of documentary storytelling.

Christopher Campbell, VP, Documentary for the Critics Choice Association, emphasized the importance of this year's selections. "These films challenge us to see the world in new ways and reinforce the vital role documentaries play in informing, engaging, and inspiring audiences," Campbell stated, expressing pride in recognizing the talent behind the nominated works.

Among the ten films vying for Best Documentary Feature are:

  • '14th' (Netflix)
  • 'Everest: The Other Side' (National Geographic Documentary Films)
  • 'Everybody to Kenmure Street' (Icarus Films)
  • 'The History of Concrete' (Magnolia Pictures)
  • 'Musk' (Bleecker Street)
  • 'NAZA' (The Guardian / mk2 films)
  • 'Once Upon a Time in Harlem' (Neon)
  • 'Rehearsals for a Revolution' (Sony Pictures Classics)
  • 'Remake' (Music Box Films)
  • 'You Can See Everything' (A24)

In the Best Director category, the nominees include:

  • Yuval Abraham & Rachel Szor – 'NAZA'
  • Felipe Bustos Sierra – 'Everybody to Kenmure Street'
  • Ava DuVernay – '14th'
  • Nathan Fielder & Lance Oppenheim – 'You Can See Everything'
  • Ross McElwee – 'Remake'
  • Orlando von Einsiedel – 'The Cycle of Love'

The full list of nominations spans numerous categories, highlighting a robust year for documentary filmmaking.

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