The 98th Academy Awards nominations are out, and the excitement is palpable! With a plethora of films vying for the coveted Oscars, we're here to guide you through the highlights. But here's where it gets controversial... Are the Academy's choices truly the best of the best, or are there hidden gems overlooked? Dive into the full list of nominees here and explore our in-depth analysis here.
Below, we spotlight 14 films across six major categories: Best Picture, Best Actor and Actress, Best Supporting Actor and Actress, and Best Director. Each film brings something unique to the table, from historical dramas to contemporary thrillers, and we're here to help you navigate this cinematic landscape.
Sinners
Directed by Ryan Coogler
The Lowdown: Michael B. Jordan delivers a dual performance as twin brothers who open a 1930s juke joint. But their grand opening takes a dark turn when a bloodthirsty menace appears outside. Yes, we're talking vampires! This film has garnered an impressive 16 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director. Stream it on HBO Max or Prime Video, or rent/buy on Apple TV and other platforms.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics rave about Michael B. Jordan's dual roles here.
- Explore the symbiotic relationship between Coogler and Jordan here.
- Discover how the blues serve as a portal in 'Sinners' here.
One Battle After Another
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson
The Lowdown: Leonardo DiCaprio stars as a washed-up ex-revolutionary haunted by his past. With a stellar cast including Sean Penn and Benicio del Toro, this action thriller has secured 13 nominations. Catch it in theaters or stream on HBO Max, and rent/buy on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics call it one of the year's best films here.
- Explore the film's revolutionary spirit here.
Frankenstein
Directed by Guillermo del Toro
The Lowdown: Guillermo del Toro reimagines Mary Shelley's classic with Jacob Elordi as the creature and Oscar Isaac as the scientist. This visually stunning film has 9 nominations. Stream it exclusively on Netflix.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics believe del Toro was born to bring this monster to life here.
- Listen to why only del Toro could've made this 'Frankenstein' here.
Marty Supreme
Directed by [Director's Name Not Provided]
The Lowdown: Timothée Chalamet stars as a working-class table tennis aspirant in the 1950s. With 9 nominations, this film is a must-watch. Currently playing in theaters.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics praise Chalamet's performance here.
- Listen to why Chalamet is supremely annoying in the best way here.
Sentimental Value
Directed by [Director's Name Not Provided]
The Lowdown: Stellan Skarsgård portrays a filmmaker trying to reconnect with his estranged daughters, exploring the complex tension between art and parenthood. With 9 nominations, this film is a powerful family drama. In theaters now, and available for rent/purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics discuss the film's handling of family dynamics here.
- Listen to Skarsgård discuss his role here.
Hamnet
Directed by [Director's Name Not Provided]
The Lowdown: A young English couple, including William Shakespeare, faces an unspeakable tragedy. Jessie Buckley shines as Shakespeare's wife in this 8-time nominated film. Currently in theaters.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics compare it favorably to 'Shakespeare in Love' here.
- Explore the timelessness of the story here.
Bugonia
Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos
The Lowdown: Emma Stone plays a CEO kidnapped by conspiracy theorists who accuse her of being an alien. With 4 nominations, this film is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Stream on Peacock or rent/buy on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics debate whether it's about aliens or alienation here.
- Listen to why Lanthimos is messing with us again here.
F1
Directed by [Director's Name Not Provided]
The Lowdown: Brad Pitt and Damson Idris star as rival F1 drivers in this high-octane film with 4 nominations. Stream on Apple TV or buy on Prime Video.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics praise Pitt's performance here.
The Secret Agent
Directed by [Director's Name Not Provided]
The Lowdown: Set in 1977 Brazil, Wagner Moura plays a researcher caught in political turmoil. With 4 nominations, this film offers a gripping look at life under a dictatorship. In theaters now.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics explore the film's portrayal of dictatorship here.
Train Dreams
Directed by Clint Bentley
The Lowdown: Joel Edgerton portrays a logger in early 20th-century America. With 4 nominations, this film is visually stunning. Stream on Netflix.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics call it almost unbearably beautiful here.
Blue Moon
Directed by Richard Linklater
The Lowdown: Ethan Hawke plays lyricist Lorenz Hart on the worst night of his life. With 2 nominations, this film explores the complexities of collaboration. Rent/buy on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics discuss the film's portrayal of a Broadway breakup here.
If I Had Legs I'd Kick You
Directed by Mary Bronstein
The Lowdown: Rose Byrne delivers a powerful performance as a therapist caring for her ill daughter. With 1 nomination, this film showcases Byrne's dramatic range. Rent/buy on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics praise Byrne's performance here.
Song Sung Blue
Directed by Craig Brewer
The Lowdown: Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman form a Neil Diamond tribute band in this feel-good film with 1 nomination. In theaters and available for rent/purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Listen to Brewer discuss his Neil Diamond inspiration here.
Weapons
Directed by [Director's Name Not Provided]
The Lowdown: A chilling horror film where 17 children vanish into the night. With 1 nomination, it exposes the dark underbelly of suburbia. Stream on HBO Max or rent/buy on Prime Video, Apple TV, and more.
Dive Deeper:
- Our critics call it terrific and terrifying here.
And this is the part most people miss... While these films are undoubtedly deserving, what about the smaller, independent films that didn't make the cut? Are we missing out on the next big cinematic masterpiece? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you agree with the Academy's choices, or do you have a hidden gem you think deserves more recognition?
