As the 96th Academy Awards approach, anticipation is mounting around which films and performances will take home the coveted Oscars. With a mix of biopics, surreal fantasies, and historical epics dominating the race, the competition is fierce. Here’s a look at the top contenders for 2024, based on nominations and awards buzz.
Best Picture Contenders
Several films have emerged as clear favorites in the Best Picture category. Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is widely regarded as the frontrunner, thanks to its stunning performances, historical significance, and technical achievements. Nolan’s meticulous storytelling about the creation of the atomic bomb has resonated with both audiences and critics, earning the film major accolades at the Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice Awards, and BAFTAs.
Another major contender is Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, a bright and subversive take on the iconic doll, which has captivated global audiences and broken box office records. While it presents a whimsical surface, the film’s deeper social commentary and strong performances by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling have positioned it as a serious Oscar threat.
Yorgos Lanthimos’ Poor Things, an imaginative and eccentric film led by a transformative performance from Emma Stone, is also in the mix. With its surreal narrative and standout direction, the film has gained significant momentum throughout the awards season.
Other notable mentions include Killers of the Flower Moon by Martin Scorsese, a harrowing historical drama, and The Holdovers, a heartfelt comedy-drama by Alexander Payne.
Best Director
The Best Director race is just as competitive. Christopher Nolan (Oppenheimer) is leading the pack, having already secured multiple wins for his directorial prowess. His main competition comes from Yorgos Lanthimos (Poor Things), whose visually striking and inventive approach to filmmaking has earned him widespread acclaim.
Greta Gerwig (Barbie) and Martin Scorsese (Killers of the Flower Moon) are also in strong contention. Scorsese, a perennial favorite at the Oscars, could see a late surge in support for what many see as one of his final directorial masterworks.
Best Actor
Cillian Murphy is the clear favorite for Best Actor, thanks to his intense portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer. His nuanced performance has already secured wins at major precursor awards like the BAFTAs and Golden Globes. Paul Giamatti (The Holdovers) and Bradley Cooper (Maestro) are also strong contenders, with both delivering career-defining performances.
Best Actress
In the Best Actress category, Emma Stone’s bold and transformative role in Poor Things has set her apart. Her portrayal of a resurrected woman navigating life has garnered critical praise and several awards. However, she faces stiff competition from Lily Gladstone (Killers of the Flower Moon), whose subtle yet powerful performance has earned her many accolades.
Conclusion
As we inch closer to the 2024 Oscars, films like Oppenheimer, Barbie, and Poor Things are leading the charge in multiple categories. Whether it’s for their groundbreaking direction, powerful performances, or unique storytelling, these films have captured the hearts of both the public and critics alike. It will be exciting to see how the race evolves as we approach the big night.
