The NC Film Critics Association Awards Timeline
FYC 2026 season (proposed dates) 15th Annual NCFCA Best in Cinema
- December 20, 2026 (Sunday): Call for Nominations (Nomination Ballots Sent to Membership)
- January 3, 2027 (Sunday, 11:59 PM ET): Deadline for Nomination Ballot Returns
- January 11, 2027 (Monday): NCFCA Best in Cinema Award Nominations Announced
- January 11, 2027 (Monday): Final NCFCA Ballots Emailed to All Members
- January 17, 2027 (Sunday, 11:59 PM ET): Deadline for Final Ballot Returns
- January 25, 2027 (Monday): Announcement of Annual NCFCA Best in Cinema Winners
Any film released for voting members within the calendar year (January 1 – December 31) could be considered eligible for awards consideration. Films for consideration may be offered in theatres, online viewing platforms, or through physical media.
Awards Categories
The North Carolina Film Critics Association members recognize filmmaking in the following categories:
- Best Narrative Film
- Best Documentary
- Best Animated Film
- Best Foreign Language Film
- Best Director
- Best Actor/Actress
- Best Supporting Actor/Actress
- Best Acting Ensemble
- Best Vocal Performance in Animation, Mixed Media or Live-Action Narration
- Best Original Screenplay
- Best Adapted Screenplay
- Best Cinematography
- Best Editing
- Best Costume Design
- Best Hair & Make-Up
- Best Production Design (includes Set & Art Direction)
- Best Score
- Best Original Song
- Best Sound Design
- Best Special Effects
- Best Directorial Debut
- Best Stunt Coordination
- Breakthrough Performance *honoring acting talent for an outstanding film debut, or for a transformative performance in a lead or supporting role.
- Lifetime Achievement Award *honoring filmmakers who have left a legendary mark on the world of cinema
- Ken Hanke Memorial Tar Heel Award *honoring talent or productions with North Carolina connections
*Updated March 12, 2025
