The atmosphere crackles with excitement as the much-awaited Oscar Awards 2024 draws near. A surge of electricity fills the air, igniting the anticipation of movie buffs worldwide. With every passing day, the buzz intensifies. It will reach a crescendo as Hollywood's finest prepare to grace the red carpet. 

From the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the screens of living rooms across the globe, it's all Oscar-talk! Conversations are alight with speculation and excitement. People discuss their picks as they eagerly await the unveiling of the winners.  

The air is charged with expectation! Each moment building upon the last as the countdown to the star-studded event ticks away. Excitement mounts as fans await the glitzy and glamorous evening. Memorable speeches, stunning fashion moments, and surprise victories are a few days away.   

With each passing day, the excitement grows. Audiences get deeper into the allure of Hollywood's most prestigious night. The world waits with bated breath. The electric energy surrounding the Academy Awards 2024 is palpable. An unforgettable evening filled with celebration and acclaim is just around the corner!  

The Oscar Picks 

Every year, the Oscars celebrate a diverse array of movies. These movies showcase talent, creativity, and storytelling skill. They span various genres, winning audiences with their compelling narratives and memorable performances.  

One category that always grabs attention is the Best Picture. These films often excel in their storytelling. Additionally, they capture our hearts and minds with thought-provoking themes and emotional depth. Be it a gripping drama, an inspiring biopic, or a historical movie, Best Picture nominees represent the peak of cinematic achievement. 

Another genre that frequently earns recognition at the Oscars is the realm of biographical films. These movies delve into the lives of real-life figures. They offer audiences a glimpse into their triumphs, struggles, and contributions to society. Through great acting and meticulous attention to detail, these biopics bring history to life on the silver screen. And that brings us to the awards for acting - both in leading roles and supporting roles. The actors nominated for these awards are proven stalwarts.   

Furthermore, the Oscars shine a spotlight on the world of animation. They honour films that highlight innovation and creativity. Animated films entertain audiences of all ages. The colourful visuals, lovable characters, and universal themes have a certain charm.   

Additionally, the Oscars recognize the artistry and craftsmanship behind technical achievements in filmmaking. Categories such as Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, and Best Production Design recognise specific skills. These skills and innovation are what bring stories to life on screen.  

2024 Hot Favourites at the Oscars 

#1 Oppenheimer 

Picture Credit: Universal Pictures

Christopher Nolan's film "Oppenheimer'' is generating significant Oscar buzz! It is definitely a frontrunner at the Oscars this year. The movie has been nominated in 13 categories. This includes Best Picture and Best Director. "Oppenheimer '' is a hot fave this year for several reasons. 

Firstly, Christopher Nolan is a highly respected and accomplished filmmaker. Known for his innovative storytelling and stunning visuals, Nolan always has our attention. His previous works, such as "Inception" and "Dunkirk," have received critical acclaim and numerous awards.   

Moreover, "Oppenheimer" boasts an intriguing premise that captivated audiences. The film focuses on J. Robert Oppenheimer, a brilliant scientist. He played a pivotal role in the making of the atomic bomb during World War II. This historical backdrop provided rich material for a super hit movie!   

Additionally, the cast of "Oppenheimer" is amazing. The movie stars talented actors who have a history of giving great performances. Acclaimed actors like Cillian Murphy and Emily Blunt, gave powerhouse performances. They impressed audiences and critics alike. It's no wonder they both are top contenders themselves. Murphy has outdone himself in this movie. His excellent portrayal of the lead character has been raking in great reviews from the day of release. He is in the running for the Best Actor (Leading Role), and fans are betting on his victory.  

On the other hand, Blunt is a nominee in the Best Actress (Supporting Role) category. She too is a frontrunner in her category. 

Nolan's signature style of movie making combines great visuals and intricate narratives. His keen attention to detail and commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling made this an epic movie.  

In summary, Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" stands out as a frontrunner at the Oscars this year for good reason! Great direction, a great story and some really great acting! These factors combined make "Oppenheimer" a strong contender for awards season recognition. The movie has already scooped up awards at the Golden Globes 2024 and The Critics Choice Awards.  

#2 Poor Things 

"Poor Things" is generating a lot of excitement as a potential contender at the Oscars this year.  

To start with, it is a Yorgos Lanthimos film. He is known for his unique storytelling style. His previous films "The Lobster" and "The Favourite," received critical acclaim and recognition. They helped in establishing him as a respected filmmaker in the industry. 

Picture Credit: IMDb

Moreover, "Poor Things" features an impressive cast of talented actors, including Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo. Their versatile performances are well-known. Stone is contending for the Best Actress (Leading Role) award. Ruffalo may just bag the Best Actor (Supporting Role) Award.  

Interestingly, "Poor Things" is based on a novel by Alasdair Gray. It provides a rich source of material for a thought-provoking and engaging story. The novel's blend of humour, drama, and social commentary allowed the makers to explore meaningful themes. In a way, this helped them connect with viewers on an emotional level. 

Additionally, the film's production value is top-notch. From set design to cinematography, every aspect of the film is laudable. It is no wonder the movie has 11 nominations including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Cinematography. The movie's music and screenplay have also made heads turn.  

#3 Killers of the Flower Moon 

"Killers of the Flower Moon" is a movie that has Oscars written all over it! 

Firstly, it's directed by Martin Scorsese, who's a big name in Hollywood. He's made lots of amazing movies that people love, like "Goodfellas" and "The Wolf of Wall Street." With Scorsese at the helm, it is no wonder "Killers of the Flower Moon" is a natural Oscar frontrunner! 

The story of "Killers of the Flower Moon" is also really interesting. It is based on a true story about a series of murders of Native Americans in the 1920s. It is a story that had to be told. And it could not have had a better cast or crew.  

Picture Credit: Rotten Tomatoes

Plus, the movie has a killer cast. It stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, who are both super talented stars. Their amazing performances are legendary. De Niro is in the running for the Best Actor (Supporting Role) award. Additionally, the movie's leading lady Lily Gladstone has also awed us. The general feeling is that she will bag The Best Actress (Leading Role) award this year. Having these big names in the movie makes it more likely to get noticed by Oscar voters. 

The movie has ten Oscar nominations this year. Di Caprio is the only name in the core team that has gotten left out. And that of course is in keeping with the star's 'special' relationship with the Academy Awards! Nevertheless, with ten nominations, the movie is bound to bag a few awards adding sparkle to the actor's rep anyways! 

#4 Maestro 

Picture Credit: IMDb

"Maestro" stands tall as a powerful love story. It traces the enduring bond between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein. He is a composer / conductor. She, the love of his life and an actress. Directed by Bradley Cooper, known for his work on "A Star Is Born," the film captures the essence of their love in an emotionally charged narrative. 

Cooper not only directs but also plays Bernstein, while Carey Mulligan portrays his wife. The movie offers a glimpse into their love story. To prepare for his role, Cooper underwent extensive training. He has worked hard to embody Bernstein's famously dynamic conducting style.  

"Maestro" has earned seven Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Cooper has received his fifth Best Actor nomination. Mulligan has secured her third nomination for Best Actress. The film is also in the running for four other awards. They are Best Original Screenplay, penned by Cooper and Josh Singer, Best Cinematography, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and Best Sound. 

With its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and impressive technical aspects, "Maestro" emerges as a strong contender at the Oscars. 

#5 The Holdovers 

"The Holdovers," directed by Alexander Payne, tells the story of a grumpy teacher named Hunham, played by Paul Giamatti. He stays behind at a New England prep school over Christmas break to look after a few students who have nowhere else to go. During this time, he forms an unexpected bond with one of the students. He is a troubled, yet clever troublemaker named Dominic Sessa. Hunham develops a bond even with the school's head cook, who is grieving the loss of her son in Vietnam. 

Picture Credit: Billboard

Paul Giamatti's talent shines through his portrayal of Hunham. The character is filled with flaws but also deeply relatable. Giamatti captures the essence of a person who hides his disappointment in life behind a wall of cynicism. Giamatti carries the movie on his shoulders with his powerful performance. 

Moreover, "The Holdovers" offers a nostalgic nod to the soulful storytelling of 70s cinema. The meticulous attention to detail that transports audiences back in time. However, the film transcends its period setting to explore timeless truths about human connection. 

"The Holdovers" stands out for its focus on character-driven storytelling. It reminds viewers of the enduring power of nuanced narratives. The movie has five Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor (Leading Role). 

#6 Barbie 

The movie "Barbie" is nominated for eight Oscars this year. This includes Best Picture, and America Ferrera for Best Actress (Supporting Role), Ryan Gosling for Best Actor (Supporting Role), and Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach for writing the screenplay. They also nominated the songs "I’m Just Ken" and "What Was I Made For?" as well as the costumes and set designs. 

The movie was one of 2023's biggest hits, having hit upon many important and relevant themes. Margot Robbie's Barbie character goes on an adventure in the "Real World" to find out who is responsible for her problems. Along the way, she learns about her creator, the meaning of life and choices, the differences between boys and girls, the pressure to be perfect, and the importance of being original. Directed by Greta Gerwig, "Barbie" is a really well-done movie, both in how it looks and how it feels. It's full of tiny details that you might miss if you watch it just once. While there are mixed opinions on Gerwig's name not making it into the Best Director nominees, there is no doubt that the movie made a big pink splash!  

#7 Anatomy of A Fall 

Justine Triet's Anatomy of A Fall has received four nominations at the Oscars this year. Triet himself is up for the Best Director award. The movie is also in the running for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. While Oppenheimer seems to be the most likely to win the first one, the buzz is that the latter will go to Triet's movie.  

The movie is the unravelling of a relationship after the husband dies from a fall. The couple's strained relationship places the wife as the prime suspect. The evidence that surfaces during the investigation makes it only harder to let her off the hook. Even their son begins to suspect the mother's motives. The writing is neat and crisp. It gives you the perfect peek into their imperfect relationship. The narrative style, the plot, the characters, and the situation - they all work together. Seamlessly blending into an organic whole. Sandra Huller who plays the accused wife, has been nominated for the Best Actress (Leading Role) award. However, she is up against some big names.  

An underdog of sorts in the big categories, Anatomy of a Fall might still go home with at least one award.  

The Wait is Almost Over!

In conclusion, this year's Oscars race is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several standout films vying for top honours. From the captivating drama of "Oppenheimer" to the heartfelt storytelling of "Poor Things" and the star-studded cast of "Killers of the Flower Moon," there's no shortage of talent on display. Additionally, "Anatomy of a Fall" and "Maestro" offer unique perspectives and compelling narratives that have captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. With each film bringing its own strengths and contributions to the table, the anticipation for the awards ceremony continues to build. As we eagerly await the announcement of the winners, one thing is for certain: this year's Oscars will be a celebration of the diverse and impactful storytelling that cinema has to offer.