It’s called Hollywood’s biggest night for a reason. But the actual celebration is for the films that caused viewers to experience emotions that big blockbusters generally can’t. The Oscars is the most anticipated award show every year, and that date is quickly approaching (Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. Eastern time on ABC). If you haven’t had time to watch any of the movies nominated for an Oscar, then we’re here to help you make a list for the ones to absolutely must see before Sunday.
1. WildA story of a woman’s journey in the desert might sound boring. But Reese Witherspoon is nominated for her second Oscar for her portrayal of Cheryl Strayed, a woman intent on getting her life back on track. Witherspoon hasn’t been nominated for an Oscar since her performance as June Carter-Cash in Walk the Line. The director of Wild has also become known for making hit independent movies that have helped actors make big comebacks. A previous film of his also known for marking the journey of someone on a downward spiral was Dallas Buyers Club. Its stars, Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto, won Oscars for “Best Actor” and “Best Actor in a Supporting Role,” respectively.
2. WhiplashThis movie surprised quite a few critics by the momentum it gained after its Sundance Film Festival debut. J.K. Simmons (of Juno and the Spider-Man trilogy), who plays an abusive conductor at a prestigious music conservatory, won the Golden Globe for “Best Supporting Actor” and is now nominated for “Best Supporting Actor” at The Oscars. Miles Teller also stars in the film, and based on the number of times Simmons has spoken of him in his award speeches, he makes quite an impression.
3. The Theory of EverythingAh, Eddie Redmayne. If you know about this movie solely just for him, that’s perfectly fine. Not only is the film nominated for “Best Picture,” but Redmayne is also nominated for “Best Actor in a Leading Role,” his first Academy Award nomination. Not only is he impressive in this complete transformation, but it’s also an in-depth look at the life of Stephen Hawking, one of the smartest men in the world. Felicity Jones, another Brit, is also nominated for a “Best Actress” award for her role as Jane Hawking, Stephen Hawking’s former wife. If you’re looking for something to see that has substance along with great performances, The Theory of Everything is definitely one of the best movies of 2014.
4. BirdmanThe main focus of Birdman is probably on the major comeback of its lead actor, Michael Keaton, who is best known for his roles in Beetlejuice, Batman and Batman Returns; Keaton has been relatively unseen since his career slowed in the 1990s. Starring as a washed-up Hollywood actor who is tormented by the voice of a superhero he portrayed in the highlight of his career (sound familiar?), Keaton’s character struggles to revive a stage play and his career in New York City. Emma Stone also shines in a career-defining role in Birdman as Keaton’s daughter, a recovering addict who works as an assistant to her father. Both actors have earned raving reviews to accompany the praise of the movie, and it’s sure to make a lasting impression on the night of The Oscars.
5. SelmaIt’s safe to say that the story of Martin Luther King, Jr. is known to most people in the United States. While its lead actor, David Oyelowo, was snubbed from a “Best Actor” nomination, the film has been nominated for “Best Picture.” There are plenty of things that stand out about Selma. For instance, King is played by British actor Oyelowo. Its director, Ava DuVernay, could have been the first African American woman to be nominated for “Best Director,” and Oprah Winfrey makes a guest appearance. Need we say more?
If you’ve missed out on the premieres for the best movies of 2014, make sure to get yourself to a movie theater before The Oscars air. It has become one of the best award shows on television, thanks for previous Oscar hosts (a.k.a. Ellen DeGeneres), and it’s sure to make headlines this year when Neil Patrick Harris hosts the show.
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