2025 Oscars Best Picture Nominees Ranked and Reviewed
Image credits: Joelle Garguilo
The 97th Academy Awards have announced their nominees, and the competition for Best Picture is fierce. With ten films vying for the top prize, the race is wide open, and predictions are varied. Among the nominees are Anora, The Brutalist, and Conclave, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we will delve into each film, providing an in-depth review and analysis of their chances of winning the coveted Best Picture award.
The nominees for Best Picture are "Anora," "The Brutalist," "A Complete Unknown," "Conclave," "Dune: Part Two," "Emilia Pérez," "I'm Still Here," "Nickel Boys," "The Substance," and "Wicked." Each film has its merits, but some stand out more than others. "Emilia Pérez," for example, has been criticized for its lack of authenticity and regressive portrayal of gender transition and transgender culture. On the other hand, "Nickel Boys" is a powerful and emotional film that tells the true story of young Black men who suffered abuse in a reform school. Despite its technical flaws, the film's cinematography is stunning, and its message is impactful.
Other notable films include "A Complete Unknown," which depicts the life of Bob Dylan, and "The Brutalist," which tells the story of an architect who discovers the brutal side of capitalism. While "A Complete Unknown" is a well-crafted film that showcases Dylan's genius, it lacks depth and understanding of the man behind the music. "The Brutalist," on the other hand, is a monumental and ambitious film that features a stunning performance by Adrien Brody. However, its emotional impact is limited, and the final few minutes feel like a disservice to the story. The film's themes of capitalism and exploitation are timely and thought-provoking, making it a strong contender for the award.
The list of nominees also includes "Wicked," a musical theater adaptation that features stunning performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. While the film is visually stunning and features great production and costume design, it is overly long and features pockets of odd pacing. "Conclave," on the other hand, is a masterfully crafted film that raises important questions about faith, judgment, and power within the Catholic Church. The film's screenplay is excellent, and the performances by Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci are standout. The film's themes of power and corruption are timely and thought-provoking, making it a strong contender for the award.
Here is a list of the Best Picture nominees:
- Anora
- The Brutalist
- A Complete Unknown
- Conclave
- Dune: Part Two
- Emilia Pérez
- I'm Still Here
- Nickel Boys
- The Substance
- Wicked
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