Oscar Nominees: Top Films Of The Last Decade

The Academy Awards, or Oscars, remain the pinnacle of cinematic achievement, celebrating the very best in filmmaking. For movie buffs and industry professionals alike, the annual nomination lists offer a curated selection of must-see films. Over the past decade, the Oscar nominations have showcased a diverse range of storytelling, from indie darlings to blockbuster epics. Let's dive into some of the most memorable and critically acclaimed films that have graced the Oscar stage over the last 10 years, exploring the trends, the upsets, and the sheer brilliance that defines this era of cinema.

A Look Back at the Best Pictures

The Best Picture category is arguably the most coveted award of the night. It represents the film that, in the Academy's eyes, embodies the highest standards of filmmaking. Looking back at the past decade, we see a fascinating mix of genres and styles that have captured the hearts and minds of both critics and audiences. From historical dramas that transport us to different eras to contemporary stories that reflect the complexities of modern life, the Best Picture nominees offer a snapshot of our world and the power of storytelling.

Spotlighting Memorable Nominees

In recent years, we've seen a surge of films that tackle social issues head-on. Films like "Moonlight" (2016) and "Parasite" (2019) not only won Best Picture but also sparked important conversations about race, class, and identity. "Moonlight", with its poignant portrayal of a young Black man's journey of self-discovery, resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Similarly, "Parasite", a South Korean black comedy thriller, broke barriers by becoming the first non-English language film to win Best Picture, highlighting the increasing globalization of cinema and the universal themes it can explore. These films demonstrate the Academy's growing recognition of diverse voices and perspectives.

Then there are the grand, sweeping epics that transport us to other worlds or historical periods. Films like "1917" (2019) and "Dunkirk" (2017) showcased breathtaking cinematography and immersive storytelling, bringing the horrors and heroism of war to life in a visceral way. "1917", with its innovative single-shot technique, created an unparalleled sense of immediacy and tension, while "Dunkirk" offered a multi-perspective view of the harrowing evacuation of Allied soldiers from France. These films remind us of the power of cinema to transport us to different times and places, allowing us to experience history in a profound and emotional way.

And let's not forget the heartwarming and uplifting stories that remind us of the best of humanity. Films like "CODA" (2021) and "Everything Everywhere All at Once" (2022) captured our hearts with their relatable characters and themes of family, love, and acceptance. "CODA", which stands for Child of Deaf Adults, told the story of a young woman torn between her responsibilities to her deaf family and her own aspirations, while "Everything Everywhere All at Once" explored the complexities of family relationships and the importance of embracing our flaws and imperfections. These films demonstrate the power of cinema to connect us to our shared humanity and remind us of the importance of kindness and compassion.

Trends in Oscar-Nominated Films

Over the past decade, several trends have emerged in the types of films that receive Oscar nominations. One notable trend is the increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The Academy has made a concerted effort to recognize and celebrate films that tell stories from diverse perspectives, featuring characters from different backgrounds and cultures. This shift reflects a broader movement in the entertainment industry to create more opportunities for underrepresented groups and to tell stories that reflect the diversity of our world.

Another trend is the growing popularity of genre films. In the past, genre films, such as science fiction, horror, and fantasy, were often overlooked by the Academy. However, in recent years, we've seen a growing number of genre films receive nominations, including films like "Get Out" (2017) and "Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015). This trend suggests that the Academy is becoming more open to recognizing the artistic merit and cultural significance of genre films.

The Actors and Actresses Who Shined

The performances of the actors and actresses who bring these stories to life are, of course, a critical part of what makes a film memorable. The Best Actor and Best Actress categories are always hotly contested, and the winners often deliver unforgettable performances that stay with us long after the credits roll. Looking back at the past decade, we can identify some truly iconic performances that have earned their place in cinematic history.

Recognizing Outstanding Performances

Consider the transformative performances of actors like Joaquin Phoenix in "Joker" (2019) and Rami Malek in "Bohemian Rhapsody" (2018). Phoenix's portrayal of Arthur Fleck, a mentally ill outcast who transforms into the Joker, was both terrifying and mesmerizing, earning him widespread acclaim and an Oscar for Best Actor. Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury, the legendary frontman of Queen, was equally captivating, capturing the energy, charisma, and vulnerability of the iconic singer. These performances demonstrate the power of acting to transform an actor into a character, allowing them to inhabit a different persona and connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.

On the actresses' side, performances like Frances McDormand in "Nomadland" (2020) and Olivia Colman in "The Favourite" (2018) stand out for their nuance and depth. McDormand's portrayal of Fern, a woman who travels the American West in search of work and meaning, was both understated and powerful, capturing the resilience and independence of the American spirit. Colman's portrayal of Queen Anne in "The Favourite" was equally compelling, showcasing the queen's vulnerability, capriciousness, and loneliness. These performances demonstrate the power of acting to reveal the inner lives of characters, allowing us to understand their motivations, their fears, and their desires.

Memorable Supporting Roles

And let's not forget the incredible supporting performances that often steal the show. Actors like Mahershala Ali in "Green Book" (2018) and Laura Dern in "Marriage Story" (2019) delivered unforgettable performances that added depth and complexity to their respective films. Ali's portrayal of Don Shirley, a sophisticated jazz pianist who tours the American South in the 1960s, was both elegant and dignified, while Dern's portrayal of Nora Fanshaw, a fiercely independent lawyer, was both sharp and witty. These performances demonstrate the power of supporting actors to elevate a film, adding layers of meaning and complexity to the story.

The Directors Behind the Camera

Of course, no discussion of Oscar-nominated films would be complete without acknowledging the directors who bring these stories to life. The Best Director category recognizes the vision and artistry of the filmmakers who guide the entire production, shaping the narrative, the visuals, and the performances. Over the past decade, we've seen a diverse range of directors recognized for their outstanding work, from established masters to emerging talents.

Celebrating Visionary Filmmakers

Directors like Alfonso Cuarón for "Roma" (2018) and Chloé Zhao for "Nomadland" (2020) have pushed the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, creating films that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Cuarón's "Roma", a semi-autobiographical film set in Mexico City in the 1970s, was a masterpiece of visual storytelling, capturing the beauty and complexity of everyday life. Zhao's "Nomadland", a docudrama about a woman who travels the American West in search of work, was equally powerful, blending fiction and reality to create a moving and authentic portrait of life on the margins. These directors demonstrate the power of filmmaking to transport us to different worlds and to connect us to our shared humanity.

Then there are directors like Christopher Nolan for "Dunkirk" (2017) and Denis Villeneuve for "Arrival" (2016) who have redefined the possibilities of genre filmmaking, creating films that are both intellectually stimulating and visually spectacular. Nolan's "Dunkirk", a war film told from multiple perspectives, was a technical marvel, showcasing the director's mastery of suspense and pacing. Villeneuve's "Arrival", a science fiction film about a linguist who attempts to communicate with alien visitors, was equally impressive, exploring complex themes of language, communication, and understanding. These directors demonstrate the power of filmmaking to push the boundaries of genre and to create films that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Future of Oscar-Nominated Films

As we look ahead to the future, it's exciting to imagine what kinds of films will be recognized by the Academy in the years to come. One thing is certain: the Oscars will continue to celebrate the very best in filmmaking, showcasing the power of storytelling to entertain, to inspire, and to connect us to our shared humanity. With the rise of streaming services and the increasing globalization of cinema, we can expect to see even more diverse and innovative films competing for the coveted gold statuette. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be transported to new worlds and to experience the magic of cinema.