Oscar Nominations 2024: A Night of Glamour and Recognition

The 96th Academy Awards ceremony delivered a night filled with surprises and well-deserved recognition for outstanding cinematic achievements. "Oppenheimer" and "Poor Things," leading the nominations with a combined total of 24 nods, kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

Best Picture Nominees

This year's selection showcases a diverse range of genres and narratives:
American Fiction: Cord Jefferson's adaptation delves into race and identity in contemporary America.
Killers of the Flower Moon: Martin Scorsese's historical epic unveils a dark chapter in American history – the 1920s Osage murders – and the fight for justice.
Maestro: Bradley Cooper's directorial debut explores the life and legacy of conductor Leonard Bernstein, featuring powerful performances from Cooper and Carey Mulligan.
Oppenheimer: Christopher Nolan's biographical thriller delves into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the "father of the atomic bomb," raising questions about morality and scientific responsibility.
Past Lives: Celine Song's poignant romance explores themes of destiny, connection, and life choices.
Winner: Oppenheimer

Best Actor Nominees

The best actor category features a talented group of performers who brought their characters to life with remarkable depth:
Bradley Cooper, Maestro: Cooper's transformative performance captures the essence of the iconic conductor Leonard Bernstein.
Colman Domingo, Rustin: Domingo delivers a powerful and moving portrayal of civil rights leader Bayard Rustin.
Paul Giamatti, The Holdovers: Giamatti reminds audiences of his exceptional talent with his comedic timing and emotional depth.
Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer: Murphy delivers a mesmerizing performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer, grappling with the ethical implications of his work.
Jeffrey Wright, American Fiction: Wright's nuanced portrayal of a struggling writer resonates with audiences.
Winner: Cillian Murphy

Best Actress Nominees

The best actress category showcases the incredible range and talent of leading ladies:
Annette Bening, Nyad: Bening embodies the perseverance and human spirit of long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad.
Lily Gladstone, Killers of the Flower Moon: Gladstone's groundbreaking performance as Mollie Burkhart marks a significant moment for Indigenous representation.
Sandra Hüller, Anatomy of a Fall: Hüller delivers a captivating and enigmatic performance as a woman accused of murder.
Carey Mulligan, Maestro: Mulligan portrays Felicia Montealegre, Leonard Bernstein's wife, with strength and resilience.
Emma Stone, Poor Things: Stone's captivating performance as Bella Baxter solidifies her status as a top talent.
Winner: Emma Stone

Best Supporting Actor Nominees

This category highlights actors who enhanced the overall impact of their films:
Sterling K. Brown, American Fiction: Brown adds depth and complexity to the film's exploration of race and identity.
Robert De Niro, Killers of the Flower Moon: De Niro delivers a chilling portrayal of a rancher involved in the Osage murders.
Robert Downey Jr., Oppenheimer: Downey Jr.'s captivating performance adds intrigue to the film's narrative.
Ryan Gosling, Barbie: Gosling steals the show with his hilarious and thought-provoking performance as Ken.
Winner: Robert Downey Jr.

Best Supporting Actress Nominees

This category celebrates actresses who brought depth and nuance to their roles:
Emily Blunt, Oppenheimer: Blunt provides an emotional core to the film as Kitty Oppenheimer, highlighting the personal sacrifices of those close to the scientist.
Danielle Brooks, The Color Purple: Brooks captures the spirit of the beloved novel with her powerful performance as Sofia.
America Ferrera, Barbie: Ferrera provides a relatable and empowering voice for female audiences.
Jodie Foster, Nyad: Foster highlights the importance of support and companionship in achieving one's goals.
Da'Vine Joy Randolph, The Holdovers: Randolph brings warmth and humor to the film with her endearing character.
Winner: Da'Vine Joy Randolph

Best Director Nominees

This category recognizes visionary filmmakers:
Jonathan Glazer, The Zone of Interest: Glazer's masterful use of cinematography and sound design creates a haunting and immersive experience.
Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer: Nolan's meticulous attention to detail and ability to create suspenseful narratives solidify his status as a celebrated director.
Martin Scorsese, Killers of the Flower Moon: Scorsese's masterful storytelling brings historical events to life with sensitivity and authenticity.
Justine Triet, Anatomy of a Fall: Triet's exploration of moral ambiguity and complex characters makes "Anatomy of a Fall" a captivating film.
Winner: Christopher Nolan

Best Original Screenplay Nominees

This category celebrates creativity and originality:
Anatomy of a Fall: A gripping legal drama with a nuanced exploration of a complex marriage.
The Holdovers: A coming-of-age story that blends humor and heart.
Maestro: A multifaceted portrait of Leonard Bernstein and his relationships.
May December: Explores the complexities of a controversial relationship and societal norms.
Past Lives: A beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant story about destiny and connection.
Winner: Anatomy of a Fall

Best International Feature Film Nominees

These films represent the best of global cinema:
Io Capitano (Italy)
Perfect Days (Japan)
Society of the Snow (Spain)
The Teachers' Lounge (Germany)
The Zone of Interest (United Kingdom)
Winner: The Zone of Interest (United Kingdom)

Best Visual Effects Nominees

These films push the boundaries of visual storytelling:
The Creator: Cutting-edge visual effects transport audiences to a world where humans and artificial intelligence collide.
Godzilla Minus One: State-of-the-art visual effects bring the iconic Godzilla to life with stunning realism.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3: Imaginative visuals and seamless CGI create a vibrant and captivating cinematic experience.
Mission Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One: Practical and visual effects deliver thrilling stunts and exhilarating action sequences.
Napoleon: Visual effects recreate the grandeur and spectacle of Napoleon's era.
Winner: Godzilla Minus One

Best Costume Design Nominees

These films showcase artistry and creativity through costume design:
Barbie: A vibrant and playful homage to the iconic doll's fashion history.
Killers of the Flower Moon: Meticulously recreates the clothing and style of the Osage people and the early 20th century American West.
Napoleon: Captures the opulence and grandeur of the Napoleonic era with elaborate uniforms and elegant gowns.
Oppenheimer: Reflects the understated elegance and practicality of the 1940s.
Poor Things: A whimsical and eclectic mix of historical and fantastical elements, reflecting the film's surreal tone.
Winner: Poor Things

Best Production Design Nominees

These films create immersive and believable worlds:
Barbie: A visually stunning and imaginative world that both celebrates and critiques the iconic doll's universe.
Killers of the Flower Moon: Meticulously recreates the landscapes and interiors of the Osage Nation and the early 20th century American West.
Napoleon: Captures the grandeur and scale of the Napoleonic era with elaborate sets and realistic battlefields.
Oppenheimer: Creates a sense of realism and historical accuracy, reflecting the film's exploration of scientific advancement and political intrigue.
Poor Things: A visually striking blend of historical and fantastical elements, creating a surreal and dreamlike world.
Winner: Poor Things

Best Makeup and Hairstyling Nominees

These films transform actors into their characters and enhance visual storytelling:
Golda: Transforms Helen Mirren into the iconic Golda Meir.
Maestro: Convincingly portrays Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre at various stages of their lives.
Oppenheimer: Subtly but effectively transforms Cillian Murphy into J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Poor Things: Contributes to the film's surreal atmosphere with Emily Jean "Emma" Stone's dramatic transformation.
Society of the Snow: Creates the film's stark and unforgiving environment.
Winner: Poor Things

Looking Ahead
The 96th Academy Awards celebrated a diverse range of films and performances, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. As we look forward to another exciting year in film, the 2024 Oscars serve as a reminder of the creativity and talent within the industry.