Oscar 2024: Nominated Movies You Need To See

The 2024 Oscars are just around the corner, guys, and you know what that means! It's time to dive headfirst into the amazing pool of nominated movies. This year, we've got a spectacular lineup, from mind-bending sci-fi to heart-wrenching dramas and everything in between. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s take a closer look at some of the films that are vying for the golden statuette. Whether you're a die-hard cinephile or just looking for some quality entertainment, this guide is your ticket to being in the know before the big night!

The Frontrunners

Let's kick things off with the heavy hitters, the films that everyone's talking about. These are the movies that have been dominating the awards season buzz, racking up nominations and wins left and right. Seriously, if you haven't seen these yet, what are you waiting for? You are missing a lot of good movies. First, we have "Oppenheimer." Christopher Nolan's epic biographical thriller explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and his involvement in the development of the atomic bomb. The film is a cinematic masterpiece, with stunning visuals, a gripping narrative, and powerhouse performances from Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr. It has already garnered widespread critical acclaim and is a strong contender for Best Picture, Best Director, and several acting awards. Next up is "Killers of the Flower Moon." Martin Scorsese's historical crime drama, based on the non-fiction book of the same name, tells the story of the Osage Nation murders in the 1920s. With a star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone, the film is a sprawling and immersive portrayal of greed, corruption, and injustice. Scorsese's masterful direction and the film's powerful themes make it a serious contender in multiple categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Gladstone. These films have generated significant buzz due to their strong narratives, direction, and performances, positioning them as leading contenders in the race for the coveted golden statuettes.

Dark Horse Contenders

Now, let’s shine a spotlight on some of the underdogs, the films that might not be leading the pack but are definitely worth keeping an eye on. These are the movies that have surprised audiences and critics alike with their unique vision, compelling stories, and stellar performances. Don't count them out just yet, guys! They could just pull off an upset. First, we have "Poor Things." Yorgos Lanthimos's bizarre and surreal film is a dark fairy tale that defies easy categorization. Emma Stone plays a young woman brought back to life by a mad scientist, and her performance is nothing short of transformative. The film's distinctive visual style and unconventional narrative have earned it a devoted following, and it could sneak into several categories, including Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Director. Then there is "American Fiction." Cord Jefferson's satirical comedy-drama is a biting commentary on race, identity, and the publishing industry. Jeffrey Wright delivers a tour-de-force performance as a Black novelist who writes a deliberately stereotypical book that becomes a bestseller. The film's sharp wit and insightful observations have resonated with audiences, and it could be a surprise contender for Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay. These films, while perhaps not as widely discussed as the frontrunners, possess unique qualities and compelling narratives that could position them as dark horse contenders, potentially disrupting the expectations of awards season.

Animated Adventures and International Intrigue

Okay, let's switch gears and talk about the amazing world of animated films and international cinema. These categories are always full of hidden gems, and this year is no exception. From visually stunning animation to thought-provoking stories from around the globe, these films offer a unique perspective and are a must-see for any movie lover. For animation, we have "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse." This is not just another superhero movie; it's a visual masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of animation. The stunning visuals, innovative storytelling, and diverse cast of characters make it a standout in the animated category. It’s a film that appeals to both kids and adults, and it’s a serious contender for Best Animated Feature. Next, let's consider "The Boy and the Heron." Hayao Miyazaki's latest film is a poignant and visually stunning return to form. The film tells the story of a young boy who enters a magical world filled with mystery and wonder. Miyazaki's signature style and themes are on full display, and it's a strong contender for Best Animated Feature. Regarding international films, there is "Anatomy of a Fall." Justine Triet's courtroom drama is a gripping and suspenseful exploration of a marriage on trial. Sandra Hüller delivers a powerful performance as a writer accused of murdering her husband. The film's complex characters and twisty plot have earned it critical acclaim and it's a must-see. Also, check out "Perfect Days." Wim Wenders's slice-of-life drama is a gentle and meditative look at the life of a Tokyo toilet cleaner. Kōji Yakusho delivers a subtle and moving performance as a man who finds beauty and contentment in his everyday routine. The film's simple yet profound story has resonated with audiences, and it's a strong contender for Best International Feature. The diverse range of storytelling approaches in these categories underscores the global nature of cinema and the ability of animation and international films to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Acting Aces: Performances to Remember

Alright, guys, let's give some love to the actors who brought their A-game this year! These performances are the heart and soul of the nominated films, and they deserve all the recognition they're getting. From transformative portrayals to nuanced performances, these actors have captivated audiences and left a lasting impression. Let's start with Cillian Murphy in "Oppenheimer." Murphy's portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer is nothing short of mesmerizing. He captures the complexity and inner turmoil of the brilliant physicist with stunning nuance and depth. This is a career-defining performance that is sure to be remembered for years to come. Then we have Lily Gladstone in "Killers of the Flower Moon." Gladstone delivers a powerful and heartbreaking performance as Mollie Burkhart, an Osage woman who falls victim to the Reign of Terror. She embodies the strength and resilience of the Osage people with grace and dignity. This is a groundbreaking performance that is sure to make waves. Consider Paul Giamatti in "The Holdovers." Giamatti shines as a curmudgeonly classics professor who forms an unlikely bond with a troubled student. His wry humor and heartfelt emotion make him a joy to watch. This is a classic Giamatti performance that is both funny and touching. Finally, there is Emma Stone in "Poor Things." Stone's fearless and transformative performance as Bella Baxter is a revelation. She fully embodies the character's eccentricities and vulnerabilities with abandon and grace. This is a bold and unforgettable performance that showcases Stone's incredible range. Each of these performances showcases the actor's ability to fully embody their characters, adding depth and authenticity to the narratives, and earning them well-deserved recognition.

Where to Watch

Okay, now that you're super excited about all these movies, you're probably wondering where you can watch them, right? Don't worry, I've got you covered! Some of these films are still playing in theaters, so grab your friends and head to your local cinema for the full big-screen experience. For those of you who prefer to watch from the comfort of your own couch, many of these movies are available to rent or buy on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. And of course, keep an eye out for them on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max in the coming months. With various viewing options available, audiences can engage with the nominated films through their preferred channels, whether it's the immersive experience of a movie theater or the convenience of streaming from home.

Get Your Popcorn Ready!

So there you have it, guys! A sneak peek at the amazing movies nominated for the 2024 Oscars. Whether you're rooting for the frontrunners or hoping for a surprise win from a dark horse contender, this year's lineup is sure to keep you entertained and engaged. So, grab your popcorn, gather your friends, and get ready for a night of celebrating the best in cinema! And hey, don't forget to cast your own votes in your office Oscar pool – bragging rights are on the line!