Last year’s Oscar-winning film “Everything Everywhere All at Once” (A24) felt like an inevitable winner, and this year, the historical epic “Oppenheimer” (Universal), directed by Christopher Nolan, seems to be the frontrunner for at least seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Director. With 13 Oscar nominations, the film has won all the precursor awards, indicating it could potentially win more than the seven awards it won at the BAFTAs. However, it’s important to note that it may not win every category it’s nominated for.
Christopher Nolan’s film “Oppenheimer” presents a compelling narrative that explores the life of a man, played by the talented Cillian Murphy, who must confront the consequences of his actions that changed the world, and not for the better. Despite its serious subject matter, the film manages to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, which is why it was able to generate almost $1 billion at the global box office.
One of the most remarkable aspects of “Oppenheimer” is that Nolan challenged his crew to create everything possible in front of the cameras and avoid using digital visual effects (VFX). Therefore, the film did not receive any VFX nomination. Nolan cast 73 speaking parts, many of which were played by recognizable actors, including 18 aging roles that had to pass muster with unforgiving IMAX cameras.
Given its impressive performance at the box office, it’s hard to imagine any of the other films in contention overtaking “Oppenheimer” as the winner. Its closest competitors, “Barbie” and “Poor Things,” are both feminist comedies that have generated $1 billion and received eight and 11 nominations respectively. However, neither of these films has the same gravitas as “Oppenheimer.”
While “Poor Things” has received critical acclaim and won five BAFTAs, it is more divisive in the US. Emma Stone’s performance in the film is in contention for Best Actress, but the film could wind up with nothing if “Barbie” takes home the awards for Costumes and Production Design, leaving “Poor Things” empty-handed. Ultimately, only time will tell if “Oppenheimer” will come out on top and claim the top prize.
The film industry is buzzing with excitement as award season approaches, and many are eagerly anticipating the announcement of the BAFTA and Oscar nominations. However, some notable directors, such as Greta Gerwig and Yorgos Lanthimos, missed out on BAFTA nods but did manage to secure Director’s Guild of America (DGA) slots. Meanwhile, fellow director Christopher Nolan emerged victorious at the DGA. Unfortunately, Gerwig failed to secure a directing Oscar nomination, despite her previous two-time screenwriter Oscar nominations.
Interestingly, the Academy switched Gerwig and Noah Baumbach’s screenplay for their based-on-an-unwritten-character scenario from Original to Adapted, which may have generated sympathy votes for Gerwig. Still, her feminist comedy faces stiff competition from Cord Jefferson’s popular “American Fiction,” which has repeatedly won precursor writing awards such as the USC Scripter. Additionally, “Oppenheimer” is another strong contender, but it can’t win everything.
When it comes to the crafts, “Oppenheimer” is a strong contender for Cinematography, Score, and Editing. However, it faces competition from “Barbie” and “Poor Things” for Costume and Production Design. Furthermore, Nolan’s British roots give “Oppenheimer” an additional advantage, even among the international block.
Despite this, the most competitive European favorites are Jonathan Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest” (A24) and Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” (Neon), which could pick up five Oscar nominations each. However, France did not submit “Anatomy of a Fall” for the Oscar, but it still has a chance to win Best Original Screenplay. Meanwhile, “The Zone of Interest” is likely to score Best International Feature and Sound.
Finally, A24 has backed first-time director and DGA nominee Celine Song’s “Past Lives,” starring Greta Lee and Teo Yoo in a story about the road not taken. However, it may have to settle for Best Feature and Director wins at the Indie Spirits.
The Oscar nominations have been announced, and it looks like “Killers of the Flower Moon” is leading the pack with 10 nominations, including Best Director and Supporting Actor. However, it’s possible that the film’s only win could come from Lily Gladstone’s performance as Actress in a Supporting Role.
Another contender for Best Picture is “The Holdovers”, directed by Alexander Payne and distributed by Focus Features. This Christmas hit is expected to win the award for Supporting Actress, with Da’Vine Joy Randolph being the frontrunner. It’s also possible that Paul Giamatti, who won the Comedy Globe and Critics’ Choice Award, could take home the award for Best Actor in a Comedy.
Netflix is also well-represented in the nominations, with “Rustin” being nominated for Best Actor, “Nyad” being nominated for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, and “Maestro” being nominated for seven awards, including Best Picture, Actor, and Original Screenplay. The most likely wins for Netflix are Kazu Hiro for Best Makeup and Hairstyling for “Maestro” and Wes Anderson for Best Live-Action Short for “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.”
However, the question remains: how many people have actually seen these movies? Two of the most popular contenders, “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie,” are global box office successes, which could attract a larger audience for the awards show on March 10th. Regardless of who wins, the Oscars are shaping up to be an exciting event for film buffs and casual viewers alike.
The final list of 23 Oscar picks and spoilers is below.
Best Picture: “Oppenheimer”
Spoiler: “The Zone of Interest”
The film industry has been abuzz with the recent performance of Jonathan Glazer’s holocaust film. Following its release on December 15, the movie seemed to have gained momentum but with only three wins on its BAFTA home turf, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that it will emerge as a major contender. Despite its acclaimed reception, the movie doesn’t seem to pose a significant threat to the mighty “Oppenheimer.”
Interestingly, after “Dunkirk” failed to secure wins in the Best Director or Picture categories, many industry insiders are suggesting that it is Christopher Nolan’s time to shine. Nolan, who is renowned for his exceptional work as a filmmaker, is expected to make a strong contender for the title of Best Director. The competition in this category is expected to be fierce, but Nolan’s work is highly regarded, and many believe that he is a strong contender for the award.
Best Director: Christopher Nolan (“Oppenheimer”)
Spoiler: Yorgos Lanthimos (“Poor Things”)
The highly anticipated awards season is here, and the film industry is buzzing with excitement. Among the top contenders for the coveted Oscars is the movie “Poor Things,” which has received a staggering 11 nominations. This cinematic masterpiece is giving tough competition to “Oppenheimer” in several craft categories. However, despite the film’s impressive performance, the directorial award will go to the long overdue Christopher Nolan. Nolan has been nominated for directing only once before, for his outstanding work in “Dunkirk.” This recognition is long overdue, and it’s a testament to Nolan’s exceptional talent and contribution to the film industry.
Best Actor: Cillian Murphy (“Oppenheimer”)
Spoiler: Paul Giamatti (“The Holdovers”)
The two lead actors in this film are truly exceptional, delivering performances that are being touted as the best of their careers. Eddie Murphy, who is a first-time Oscar nominee, is simply mesmerizing on the big screen with his deep blue eyes, rich bass voice, and gaunt physique. Having already won the Golden Globe (Drama), the BAFTA, and the SAG awards, the Irish actor is considered a strong contender for the coveted Academy Award, with international voters rooting for him.
On the other hand, Paul Giamatti, an American actor who was previously nominated for an Oscar for his role in “Cinderella Man”, delivers a heart-tugging performance as a grumpy teacher who is stuck spending the holidays with a rebellious student. He won the Golden Globe (Comedy) and even beat Murphy at the Critics Choice Awards (CCA). However, it is often the case that a performance that demands more gravitas and has a higher degree of difficulty ultimately wins over a comedic performance.
Overall, the acting in this film is truly remarkable, and audiences are sure to be moved by the exceptional performances of both Murphy and Giamatti.
Best Actress: Lily Gladstone (“Killers of the Flower Moon”)
Spoiler: Emma Stone (“Poor Things”)
The race for the Best Actress award is currently a close one and both actresses, Gladstone and Stone, have been performing exceptionally well throughout the awards circuit. Gladstone started off by winning a number of prestigious critics’ prizes and the Globe (Drama), while Stone won Comedy and then the CCA and BAFTA as well, where Gladstone failed to secure a nomination, indicating weak international support for “Killers.” However, Gladstone made a comeback by winning the more mainstream SAG Award.
Although many believe that Gladstone should have been considered for the Supporting Actress category given her lack of dialogue, she held her own with Leonardo DiCaprio as her on-screen husband and could become the first Native American to win the Best Actress award. Her impressive performances have charmed many supporters on the awards circuit.
This could also potentially mark the only win for Martin Scorsese’s Osage epic, which peaked early. Voters may not want to repeat the scenario of “The Irishman,” which received 10 nominations but no wins.
On the other hand, Stone has already won an Oscar for her role in “La La Land,” but that hasn’t stopped Oscar voters in the past, as Frances McDormand boasts three Oscars. The level of acting challenge could be the deciding factor: Stone created a complex character in “Poor Things,” where she portrays Bella Baxter, who starts out as a grown woman with a baby’s brain implanted in her skull, and gradually matures into a curious and questing creature who learns how to function in the world without shame.
However, Stone, being an in-demand star, will have other opportunities in the future to win the Oscar. It remains to be seen which actress will win the coveted award, but it is clear that both Gladstone and Stone are strong contenders, and the competition between them is intense.
Best Supporting Actor: Robert Downey, Jr. (“Oppenheimer”)
Spoiler: Ryan Gosling (“Barbie”)
In the current race, it seems that drama is winning over comedy. Robert Downey Jr. has been racking up all the awards and accolades, and rightfully so. He has a powerful comeback story that has captured the hearts of many. After spending years working on big-budget commercial movies and blockbuster Marvel productions, he took on a challenging dramatic role that required him to push himself to his limits. Despite the difficult task, he managed to deliver a performance that was both nuanced and powerful, earning him a lot of praise from critics and audiences alike.
On the other hand, Ryan Gosling’s performance in “Barbie” has been hailed as a comedic and musical tour de force. He effortlessly brings the character of Ken to life, showcasing his incredible talent for humor and song. However, despite Gosling’s impressive performance, it seems that Downey is the one to beat in this race. With his exceptional acting skills and powerful narrative, he is the clear favorite to take home the prize.
Best Supporting Actress: Da’Vine Joy Randolph (“The Holdovers”)
Spoiler: Jodie Foster (“Nyad”)
The movie industry is always abuzz during awards season, as critics and fans alike eagerly anticipate which films and actors will take home the top prizes. One such standout performance this year is that of Randolph, who has already won both Critics Choice and Globe awards. In fact, she is poised to sweep the field, having also won BAFTA and SAG awards for her performance. Many believe she is a shoo-in to win the Oscar, given her powerful portrayal of a grieving mother who has lost her son in Vietnam and is left to cook for a professor and student over the holidays.
While Randolph is a clear frontrunner, there are still other performances that have garnered attention from voters. For instance, Foster’s return to the screen in a supporting role has been highly praised, particularly in her first outing as an openly gay character opposite Annette Bening. Additionally, her role as a gruff detective in HBO’s “True Detective: Night Country” has only served to heighten her profile during campaign season. However, despite the buzz surrounding her performances, it seems that Randolph’s stunning portrayal will be the one to take home the win.
Of course, awards season is always full of surprises, and anything can happen on the big night. Some speculate that “The Holdovers,” featuring Giamatti and screenwriter David Hemingson, could pull off an upset. But for now, all eyes are on Randolph, who has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike with her powerful performance. And even if Foster doesn’t win this time around, we can be sure she’ll be back with more standout performances in the future.
Best Original Screenplay: Justine Triet and Arthur Harari (“Anatomy of a Fall”)
Spoiler: David Hemingson (“The Holdovers”)
“Anatomy of a Fall” emerged as the winner for the Best Screenplay category at both the Golden Globe and BAFTA awards, cementing its position as a well-written and engaging movie. On the other hand, the Critics’ Choice Association (CCA) awarded Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach for their original screenplay “Barbie.” Unfortunately, they face stiff competition in the Adapted Screenplay category at the Academy Awards. The hilarious and heartwarming script for “The Holdovers” was penned by TV writer Hemingson, who made his debut in the world of feature films. Hemingson managed to infuse the script with a lot of heartfelt moments by including several of his family members in the story. Overall, it is safe to say that the year has been an exciting one for screenwriters, who have produced some excellent scripts for us to enjoy.
Best Adapted Screenplay: Cord Jefferson (“American Fiction”)
Spoiler: Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach (“Barbie”)
The current awards season has been a thrilling ride so far with several contenders vying for the top prize. Initially, it seemed like a two-way battle between “Barbenheimer” and “American Fiction” for the coveted trophy. However, as the award season progressed, “American Fiction” gained momentum and kept winning accolades for its brilliant screenplay. The movie is based on Percival Everett’s acclaimed novel “Erasure” and is directed by Jefferson, a first-time director but an established TV writer.
The film has already won several prestigious awards like the CCA, BAFTA, Indie Spirit, and Scripter Awards, making it a strong contender for the top honors. Despite its success, the film has not faced any criticism as yet and has been received well by audiences and critics.
On the other hand, “Barbie,” a feminist comedy and a blockbuster hit, has divided opinions. The movie, based on a Mattel doll, has been praised for its original screenplay and outrageous story. Gerwig and Baumbach, the writers, won the CCA Original Screenplay award for their exceptional work.
The race for the top prize is not just limited to these two films. Another contender in the race is Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of his box-office hit “Oppenheimer,” based on the book “American Prometheus.” The movie is a time-shifting historic epic that revolves around the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the atomic bomb, and Lewis Strauss, in black and white. With such strong contenders in the race, it will be exciting to see which film takes home the top honors.
Best Animated Feature: “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
Spoiler: “The Boy and the Heron”
In the category of Best Animated Feature Film, the competition is tough but there are two standout contenders. The first is a blockbuster sequel directed by producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller. This movie has already grossed an impressive $681 million worldwide and has received critical acclaim for its innovative and engaging storytelling. The second contender is “The Boy and the Heron,” a movie directed by the returning Japanese Master Hayao Miyazaki. This movie has been a sleeper hit in both Japan and North America, grossing $162 million worldwide. Miyazaki is known for his imaginative and captivating storytelling, and “The Boy and the Heron” is no exception. While both movies are strong contenders, many experts believe that the innovative storytelling of Phil Lord and Chris Miller’s blockbuster will ultimately win out in this category.
Best Animated Short: “War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko”
Spoiler: “Letter to a Pig”
This year’s animation entries have been impressive, with two standout pieces deserving special mention. The first is “War is Over!” by Dave Mullins, a former Pixar animator who previously worked on the short film “Lou.” The short tells the story of a chess game played across enemy lines during World War II, which is made possible thanks to a heroic carrier pigeon. This heartwarming tale is sure to capture the hearts of audiences.
The second standout piece is “Letter to a Pig” by Tal Kantor, which won the Grand Prize at the Animation Is Film Festival. The animation uses elegant line drawings to depict the story of a Holocaust survivor who writes a thank you letter to the pig that saved his life. This touching and emotional story is a testament to the power of simple acts of kindness and the resilience of the human spirit. Overall, both animation entries are outstanding and deserve recognition for their creativity and artistry.
Best Cinematography: “Oppenheimer”
Spoiler: “Killers of the Flower Moon”
Hoyte van Hoytema, the winner of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) award, is a strong contender for his first Oscar in the Best Cinematography category. His outstanding work on “Oppenheimer” involved using massive IMAX cameras, which he skillfully operated on set, while also positioning them close to the actors to capture their emotions and expressions. This delicate approach ensured that the cinematography perfectly complemented the story and added depth to the characters.
Rodrigo Prieto, a three-time Oscar nominee, is also in the running for the Best Cinematography award this year. He has worked on two projects that have been nominated – the 1920s saga “Killers of the Flower Moon” and “Barbie.” Prieto’s exceptional skills as a cinematographer shone through in both films as he masterfully captured the essence of the stories and brought them to life on screen. With his impressive track record, it’s no surprise that Prieto is a strong contender for the coveted Oscar award.
Best Costume Design: “Poor Things”
Spoiler: “Barbie”
The highly anticipated battle between “Poor Things” and “Barbie” has captured the attention of feminists worldwide. BAFTA winner “Poor Things” has challenged CCA winner “Barbie” in a fierce competition of fashion and creativity.
“Barbie” is the embodiment of Mattel’s fashion history, and the movie features the stylish duo of Barbie (played by Margot Robbie) and Ken (played by Ryan Gosling). The costumes in “Barbie” are a testament to the iconic and ever-evolving fashion trends that the brand has been associated with for decades.
On the other hand, “Poor Things” takes a bold and provocative approach to outfitting the Victorian free spirit, Bella Baxter (played by Emma Stone). The movie’s costumes are a sheer display of originality, and the designers have pushed the boundaries of creativity to create a unique look that perfectly complements the character’s personality.
While both movies have stunning costumes, the sheer originality and boldness of “Poor Things” may give it the edge over “Barbie” in this feminist battle.
Best Documentary Feature: “20 Days at Mariupol”
Spoiler: “Bobi Wine: The People’s President”
The current film industry is witnessing a tough competition between two documentaries that have gained immense popularity and critical acclaim while also placing their respective filmmakers in grave danger. The first one is Mstyslav Chernov’s “20 Days at Mariupol,” which has won both the BAFTA and DGA awards and is aired on PBS. The documentary provides a heart-wrenching account of the devastating start of the Ukraine War, which brought destruction and misery to the region. The film captures the human cost of war, the bravery of the people, and the inhumanity of those in power who caused the conflict.
The second documentary, “Bobi Wine: The People’s President,” also has received critical acclaim and won the IDA award. Christopher Sharp and Moses Bwayo directed it, and National Geographic aired it. The film chronicles the life of an Afrobeat star, Bobi Wine, who dared to challenge the brutal dictatorship in Uganda by running for president. Bobi Wine’s popularity among the masses threatened the regime, and as a result, he was thrown into prison multiple times. The documentary captures the spirit of democracy and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
Best Documentary Short: “The ABCs” of Book Banning”
Spoiler: “The Last Repair Shop”
Sheila Nevins, a veteran of HBO, received her first Oscar nomination at the age of 84 for MTV Documentary Films’ work that protests against book censorship in the United States. “The Last Repair Shop” (Searchlight), directed by Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers, is a touching portrayal of the committed individuals who repair instruments for the LA Unified School District.
Best Editing: “Oppenheimer”
Spoiler: “Anatomy of a Fall”
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), the Critics’ Choice Association (CCA), and the American Cinema Editors (ACE) have awarded Jennifer Lame for her exceptional work in editing Nolan’s masterful historic drama. Meanwhile, “Anatomy of a Fall,” a French courtroom drama directed by Triet, has garnered five Oscar nominations, and its inclusion in this category suggests that it is a strong contender. This film has earned the support of international voters, indicating that it has struck a chord with audiences beyond its home country. Overall, both films have received critical acclaim for their editing, and it will be interesting to see who takes home the award in the end.
Best Live Action Short: “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar”
Spoiler: “Invincible”
In the world of cinema, there is always a steady stream of emerging filmmakers waiting for their turn in the spotlight. However, it seems that Wes Anderson may be taking up a slot that would normally belong to one of these up-and-coming talents. Despite this, it cannot be denied that the theatrical experience offered by his latest film, an adaptation of Roald Dahl’s work, is truly delightful. On the other hand, the French Canadian film “Invincible” presents a challenging and emotionally gripping narrative that is executed with great artistry, making it a difficult but rewarding watch for those who can appreciate its depth.
Best Makeup and Hairstyling: “Maestro”
Spoiler: “Poor Things”
It’s worth noting that “Maestro” has received seven nominations this year, which is quite impressive. However, it’s possible that this could be the film’s only win, despite being such a strong contender. Interestingly, this could mark a third Oscar for Kazu Hiro, who has already won two Academy Awards for his work in the makeup and hairstyling department. On the other hand, “Poor Things” managed to take home the BAFTA in this category, so it’s not hard to imagine that it could repeat that success at the Oscars as well. It’s definitely going to be an exciting awards season, with plenty of talented artists and filmmakers vying for recognition.
Best Production Design: “Barbie”
Spoiler: “Poor Things”
It is worth noting that in the past, the winners of the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) have often repeated their success at the Oscars. This year, the British film “Poor Things” managed to secure four craft awards at the BAFTAs. However, it remains to be seen whether the film will be able to replicate its success at the upcoming Oscars. Looking at the nominations, it is interesting to see that “Barbie” could potentially emerge as a strong contender in both the Costume and Production Design categories, making it a film to watch out for at the upcoming awards ceremony.
Best Original Score: “Oppenheimer”
Spoiler: “Killers of the Flower Moon”
Ludwig Göransson’s score, which features a prominent use of violins, has emerged as a favorite in the awards season. It has already won several prestigious awards, including the Globes, Critics Choice, and BAFTAs. However, there is a growing sentiment among some film enthusiasts for the late indigenous musician Robbie Robertson’s final score, which he composed for his old friend Martin Scorsese. Despite Göransson’s impressive run so far, Robertson’s score has garnered praise for its unique blend of traditional and modern sounds, as well as its emotional resonance.
Best Original Song: “What Was I Made For?”
Spoiler: “I’m Just Ken”
The upcoming Oscars ceremony is set to feature a close race between the two “Barbie” songs nominated for Best Original Song. The first song, by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, has gained significant attention for its impressive campaigning efforts. However, the second “Barbie” song, by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, also has a strong following of supporters pushing for its win. Adding to the intrigue, Ryan Gosling is set to perform at the ceremony, further fueling the excitement around the category. With such a close race between the two “Barbie” songs, it’s possible that a dark horse nominee could ultimately take home the coveted Oscar award.
Best Sound: “The Zone of Interest”
Spoiler: “Oppenheimer”
In the same vein as the Academy Award-winning films “Whiplash” and “The Sound of Metal,” Johnnie Burn’s exceptional sound design in “The Zone of Interest” has undoubtedly set a new benchmark for the craft in modern cinema. Burn’s innovative approach to sound has played a defining role in the film’s success and has certainly caught the attention of Oscar voters. It wouldn’t be a surprise if “The Zone of Interest” takes home the award for Best Sound Design at the upcoming Oscars. However, if not, the award is likely to go to “Oppenheimer,” which is also a strong contender in this category.
Best Visual Effects: “Godzilla Minus One”
Spoiler: “The Creator”
If the low-budget movie “Godzilla Minus One,” which was made for under $15 million, wins the Visual Effects (VFX) Oscar, it could potentially become more popular and reach a wider audience. However, Toho, the Japanese film studio that owns the Godzilla franchise, withdrew the film from theaters before the release of Legendary’s “Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire” on March 29. “The Creator,” which won the VFX award at the Visual Effects Society (VES) Awards, is another low-budget movie that was made for a budget of around $80 million. Compared to other VFX-heavy movies like “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” “The Creator” is a relatively low-budget feat. Since it was made on a smaller budget, more Academy voters might have watched it, making it a potential contender for the Oscar.
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