The Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) have unveiled the nominations for the 73rd Annual MPSE Golden Reel Awards, celebrating excellence in sound editing, sound design, music editing, and foley artistry across film, television, and gaming. The prestigious gala will take place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles.
This year’s awards spotlight the skill and creativity of sound editors in a wide range of categories, from broadcast animation to feature documentary, showcasing the critical role sound plays in storytelling. Notable nominations include Love, Death + Robots: “400 Boys” (Netflix), Andor: “Who Are You?” (Disney+), The Last of Us: “Through the Valley” (HBOMax), and Stranger Things: Chapter Four: “Sorcerer” (Netflix). In feature animation, contenders such as Elio (Disney Pixar) and Bad Guys 2 (DreamWorks Animation) demonstrate the intricate work behind animated soundscapes.
In addition to competitive categories, MPSE will honor two industry luminaries with special awards. Kathleen Kennedy, the celebrated producer behind some of cinema’s most iconic franchises, will receive the Filmmaker Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to storytelling and the entertainment industry. Mark Mangini, a legendary supervising sound editor whose career spans decades of landmark film projects, will be presented with the Career Achievement Award, highlighting his lasting influence on the craft of sound editing.
MPSE, founded in 1953, remains the premier organization for entertainment sound professionals, emphasizing the artistry and technical skill required to bring stories to life through sound. The Golden Reel Awards not only recognize individual achievement but also shine a spotlight on the collaborative efforts of teams who shape the auditory experience of audiences worldwide.
The 2026 nominees exemplify the evolving landscape of sound in media, from high-intensity action sequences and immersive gaming worlds to the nuanced subtleties of dialogue and foley in dramatic storytelling. With sound playing a pivotal role in enhancing narrative and emotional impact, the awards underscore the importance of these often-unsung professionals in the entertainment ecosystem.
Winners will be revealed during the 73rd Annual MPSE Golden Reel Awards gala, a marquee event celebrating both emerging talent and lifetime achievements in sound editing. For enthusiasts, creators, and industry insiders alike, the evening promises a showcase of the artistry that makes film, television, and gaming resonate through sound.