Oscars 2024: Best Picture Nominees - All You Need to Know

Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer is a profound exploration of the moral and existential dilemmas faced by J. Robert Oppenheimer and his team during the development of the atomic bomb. With Cillian Murphy at the helm, the film combines stunning visuals and a compelling narrative to delve into the complexities of scientific discovery and its consequences.

Nolan's direction and Murphy's performance are at the forefront of Oppenheimer's Oscar buzz, showcasing a film that is not only technically impressive but also deeply reflective of its historical and ethical context. It stands as a testament to Nolan's visionary filmmaking, making it a frontrunner in the race for Best Picture.

Yorgos Lanthimos' Poor Things is a visual and narrative whirlwind, featuring Emma Stone in a wildly inventive tale of liberation and adventure. The film's unique blend of steampunk aesthetics and feminist themes offers a fresh, exhilarating experience, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling with its bold, imaginative vision.

Emma Stone's transformative performance, coupled with the film's distinctive visual flair, makes Poor Things a formidable Oscar contender. Its creative ambition and craft achievements, particularly in visual effects and costume design, highlight Lanthimos' ability to engage and surprise audiences, solidifying its place in the awards race.

Justine Triet's Anatomy of a Fall presents a gripping procedural drama centered on a family caught in the aftermath of a mysterious death. The film masterfully intertwines legal intrigue with a deep exploration of familial bonds, led by Sandra Hüller's compelling performance. Its narrative complexity and emotional depth highlight Triet's directorial finesse and a keen eye for human dynamics.

Winning the Palme d'Or and critical acclaim for its screenplay and direction, Anatomy of a Fall is positioned as a strong contender for the Oscars, particularly for its original screenplay and the hauntingly powerful portrayal by Hüller, showcasing cinema that challenges and captivates.

Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon explores a dark chapter in American history, focusing on the Osage murders and the birth of the FBI. With a star-studded cast led by Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, the film weaves a compelling narrative of greed, power, and injustice, set against the backdrop of 1920s Oklahoma.

Scorsese's meticulous direction and the film's gripping storyline position it as a significant Oscar contender, especially for Lily Gladstone, whose performance has garnered critical acclaim. Its exploration of historical themes and Scorsese's cinematic craftsmanship could resonate with Academy voters, marking it as a standout in the best picture category.

Jonathan Glazer's The Zone of Interest offers a harrowing look at the lives of those within the proximity of Auschwitz, blending the mundane with the monstrous in a way that forces viewers to confront the banality of evil. This chilling narrative, coupled with powerful performances, creates an unsettling yet captivating cinematic experience.

Its strong showing in foreign-language categories and the weight of its subject matter make it a potent contender at the Oscars. Glazer's direction and the film's unflinching portrayal of historical atrocities could strike a chord with voters, highlighting the film's importance and resonance.

Cord Jefferson's American Fiction cleverly critiques the commodification of "Black" entertainment through the story of a disillusioned novelist. Jeffrey Wright shines in a role that blends satire with profound commentary on identity and authenticity, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining film.

With its sharp wit and insightful exploration of cultural dynamics, American Fiction is poised for recognition in the screenplay category. Jefferson's adept handling of complex themes, combined with Wright's performance, presents a compelling case for Oscar glory, distinguishing it as a film that not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful discussion.

Alexander Payne's The Holdovers brings a touching narrative set in a New England prep school, where Paul Giamatti's portrayal of a curmudgeonly instructor shines amidst a story of unlikely bonds and personal growth. With its blend of humor and heart, the film delicately navigates through themes of mentorship and the passage of time, showcasing Payne's skillful direction and a compelling script.

The film's Oscar momentum is buoyed by standout performances and Payne's directorial prowess. Giamatti's nuanced performance, paired with Da'Vine Joy Randolph's award-winning supporting role, positions The Holdovers as a dark horse in the race, demonstrating the power of character-driven storytelling in capturing the Academy's attention.

Greta Gerwig's Barbie brings the iconic doll's world to life, crafting a film that's both a visual feast and a clever deconstruction of gender norms. With Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling leading a vibrant cast, the film balances humor with insightful commentary, making for an engaging and thought-provoking watch.

Though its best director snubs may hinder its chances, Barbie's achievements in design and music categories underscore its creative strengths. Its cultural impact and the innovative way it addresses themes of identity and acceptance position it as a memorable contender in the Oscars race.

Bradley Cooper's Maestro delves into the complex relationship between Leonard Bernstein and his wife, Felicia, offering a nuanced portrait of love, sacrifice, and creativity. Cooper and Carey Mulligan deliver powerful performances, underpinned by a deep appreciation for the art that shaped their characters' lives.

While Maestro faces stiff competition, its exploration of artistic dedication and personal struggle could resonate with Academy voters, particularly in acting categories. Cooper's passionate direction and the film's emotional depth present a compelling case for its inclusion among the year's best, showcasing the enduring power of love and music.

Past Lives, Celine Song's feature debut, elegantly explores the intersecting paths of childhood friends reunited in adulthood, delving into themes of love, destiny, and the choices that define us. The film's narrative is a poignant meditation on what could have been, anchored by sensitive performances and a nuanced script that captures the complexity of human emotions.

Despite its status as an indie darling, Past Lives stands out in the screenplay category, where its introspective and beautifully crafted story could resonate with Oscar voters looking for depth and authenticity in storytelling, showcasing Song's remarkable talent and vision.