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Many individuals are involved in making predictions within this industry. Oscar winners But unless you have cash at stake—and no prejudice here if you do—aren't things more enjoyable just to root for your favorites That’s something I do annually. Each year, when watching the Oscars, I approach them with a significant amount of doubt: In my opinion, members of the Academy don't necessarily pick the right winners. best films or performances Occasionally, their decisions are swayed by campaigns, peer influences, or the prevailing atmosphere. Other times—apologies—they simply reflect poor judgment. As we approach Oscar season, I firmly declare that only my savor what truly counts, and your taste should reflect that sentiment. In line with this, here are some of my top picks for the year—alongside an acting feat that surprisingly went unnoticed by the Academy.
Timothée Chalamet, who has been shortlisted for the Best Actor award, A Complete Unknown
Chalamet is an extraordinarily gifted actor However, we don't have to love every performance an actor delivers, and over the last several years, in films such as Dune, Parts 1 and 2, and Bones and All, I had started to lose enthusiasm for Chalamet. However, this sentiment changed quickly as he impressively portrayed the early 1960s version of Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s excellent film. A Complete Unknown. Chalamet masterfully portrays both the petulance and boldness of the youthful Dylan; his depiction highlights how cruel and insensitive, especially towards women, this burgeoning talent likely was. This nuanced performance, transcending simple imitation, is therefore captivating and profoundly moving.
Yura Borisov, who has been shortlisted in the Best Supporting Actor category for Anora
In Sean Baker’s film, Borisov portrays the character of Igor. Anora As a rugged individual tasked with overseeing the movie’s lead character, the spirited dancer and sex worker named Ani, portrayed by Mikey Madison, he appears quite imposing; one could understand why they would choose him for maintaining order. However, Borisov slowly develops an affectionate and luminous portrayal through fleeting looks and nuanced movements. Ultimately, it becomes clear that among all the film’s male figures, he possesses the noblest spirit. Initial judgments may not always hold true, and Borisov manages to overturn our preconceptions delightfully.
Flow, shortlisted for Outstanding Animated Feature Film
Right now, we could use some hope, and Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis offers us a mild yet refreshing amount of it through this silent ecological fable. Flow. Fleeing from an abrupt, colossal deluge, a clever and playful black feline sneaks onto a vessel occupied by a canine, a capybara, a lemur, along with a tall-necked secretary bird. Despite their contrasting natures, they manage to coexist harmoniously. This refined and concise illustration does not forcefully convey its lesson. Rather, it introduces us to a realm of splendor and collaboration—survival hinges on our unity and solidarity.
Arianne Phillips, who was nominated in the Best Costume Design category for A Complete Unknown, and Lisy Christl, who was also nominated in the same category Conclave
Yes, it's considered cheating to support two nominees in the same category. However, I genuinely find it impossible to pick just one. I'm equally enthusiastic about Phillips' costumes for A Complete Unknown, A collection of relaxed suede jackets, worn-in fishermen hats, and stylish hippie-inspired dresses captures the unkempt vitality of late 1950s to early 1960s New York City. These pieces also pay homage to Bob Dylan’s signature style; even now, he remains fond of his cool outfits. Conclave —There isn't a majestic papal robe I haven't enjoyed. Hand over all the capes adorned with gold thread, the fabulous zucchettos worn by cardinals, and those buttery-soft leather scarlet shoes! Christl presents these delights. best sartorial Catholic lewks .
Porcelain War, nominated for Best Documentary
Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev’s beautiful, tentatively optimistic documentary presents a perspective on warfare rarely witnessed. The film follows three Ukrainian artists who persistently adhere to their creative visions despite facing Russian hostility. Leontyev, along with his spouse Anya Stasenko, crafts delicate porcelain figurines that capture the rural charm of Ukraine. Simultaneously, he teaches everyday individuals weapon proficiency for national defense. Meanwhile, Andrey Stefanov transitions from painting into filmmaking; he serves as both a painter and the documentarian's cameraman. Porcelain War reveals how an artist's perspective is far from superfluous, especially during times of war. Instead, it embodies all that is worthy of combat.
Read more: In Oscar-Nominated Ukrainian Documentary Porcelain War , Three Artists Pierced the Chaos of War
The Kernel of the Holy Ficus Tree shortlisted for Best International Feature
Mohammad Rasoulof, an Iranian director, created this intense movie following the tragic death of Mahsa Amini in 2022 while she was in police custody for not adhering to hijab regulations. The story revolves around a dedicated civil servant who takes up a new position, which promises benefits for himself, his spouse, and their two adolescent daughters. However, as time passes, the two sisters begin to recognize the harmful nature of the privileged life their father's career affords them. Slowly but surely, even their mother starts seeing things differently. This raises questions about what occurs when a nation feels entitled to exert total control over women. Seeking answers to these inquiries, Rasoulof faced severe consequences; he had to flee Iran after officials denounced the film and issued him an eight-year jail sentence. The Kernel of the Holy Ficus It is built like a thriller. However, the injustices it tackles are from real-life situations.
Anora, nominated for Best Picture
Sean Baker The film's fragmented fairy tale follows a dancer and sex worker (magnificently portrayed by Mikey Madison), who discovers that her prince charming might not be so noble after all. It explores shattered illusions and suggests that acknowledging someone for who they truly are—despite rejection—is often essential for finding one’s own happiness. Anora serves as a reminder that shattered dreams don't necessarily lead to disaster; it’s only after clearing the debris that we can truly see our path ahead with precision.
Marianne Jean-Baptiste, not nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in Hard Truths
There isn’t really an Oscar "snub." The Academy isn’t one individual making decisions based solely on personal dislike but rather a group of individuals who decide the winners through voting. However, we should recognize that these voters can occasionally make mistakes. Consider Mike Leigh’s work for instance. Hard Truths , In this portrayal, Marianne Jean-Baptiste takes on the role of Pansy, a Caribbean-British woman navigating life under a gloomy disposition. Her actions make daily existence difficult for both her son and spouse, while her sister endures her behavior despite occasional exasperation. As spectators, we find ourselves similarly affected by her unyielding pessimism. Yet, many can relate to knowing someone like Pansy—a figure whose struggles primarily affect themselves rather than others. The narrative provides potential reasons behind Pansy’s bitterness, suggesting she may be grappling with profound sadness due to lingering grief over losing her mother half a decade ago. Despite these insights into her state of mind, Jean-Baptiste's nuanced acting ensures that Pansy remains an individual beyond mere labels. Through her work, Jean-Baptiste brings forth a deeply moving depiction emphasizing that Pansy is a human being first and foremost. It's unfortunate such recognition didn’t reach the Academy.
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