We have had some wonderful movies this past year
The Oscars are here, and here are some of 2021’s biggest contenders. Below are the actors, directors, and movies that stood out last year.
The movies
Let’s start with Netflix’s The Power of the Dog, with Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst in the lead. The movie brought a major twist into the Western genre, and deeply exanimated toxic masculinity and societal pressures. It also dominated the awards with a massive 12 nominations, beating every other film.
Next up is Dune, a faithful adaptation of the classic sci-fi novel. Once believed to be too difficult to be filmed, Dune turned out to be just as good as it was predicted to be. It further took the second spot with 10 nominations.
The third spot is shared by two films – West Side Story, a beautiful version of an already beloved musical; and Belfast, a semi-autobiographical, coming-of-age story. The movie too received 7 nominations.
These films will join the list for Best Picture, which includes Don’t Look Up, King Eichard, CODA, Nightmare Alley, Licorice Pizza, and Drive My Car.
Actor and director nominations
Belfast director Kenneth Branagh made history last night as he became the first person to earn 7 nominations in 7 different categories. Branagh was nominated for director, producer, and writer of the original screenplay.
Jane Campion became the first woman to earn two best director nominations with The Power of the Dog. Her screenplay received a nomination as well.
Next up are the actors. CODA star Troy Kotsur became the second deaf actor for his portrayal of a deaf character.
However, the Academy will soon receive numerous criticisms for omitting certain actors and movies. This includes Lady Gaga in House of Gucci, Denis Villeneuve for Dune, and Spider-Man: No Way Home for Best Picture.
Here are the best actor nominees:
- Javier Bardem (Being the Ricardos)
- Andrew Garfield (Tick, Tick…BOOM!)
- Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog)
- Will Smith (King Richard)
- Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth)
The best actress nominees include:
- Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye)
- Penélope Cruz (Parallel Mothers)
- Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter)
- Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos)
- Kristen Stewart (Spencer)
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