The article discusses what determines the nominees and winners of the Oscars, emphasizing the significant role of the American film industry, which accounts for approximately 66% of the global box office market. While the dominance of the US film industry has declined over the years—with American films previously controlling over 90% of the market—interest in the Oscars remains strong worldwide as long as the US film industry continues to thrive in cinemas globally. Within Latvia, American films are particularly popular, with significant ticket sales reflecting viewer preferences. In 2025, a substantial portion of the box office revenue was generated from American films, highlighting their appeal in the local market.

The piece also provides insights from Latvian film critic Kristīne Simson and discusses predictions regarding this year's Oscar nominations. It explores how various industry members, about 11,000 from different sectors of cinema, contribute to the selection of Oscar winners through their votes within the Academy. This collaborative process shapes not only the nominees but also influences trends in global filmmaking, particularly in how films are received and valued across different cultural contexts.