In light of the pandemic, the 2021 Oscars has a temporary rule that allows streaming and VOD movies to be eligible for Academy Awards. Films must have had planned theatrical releases, but they are allowed because there were many closures due to the pandemic. Take a look at some of the must-see contenders.
Nomadland
Nomadland is a film about a woman who resists settling down, and it did well in the 2020 fall festival season and won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. It has been streaming on Hulu, and it won Best Director and Best Motion Picture drama at the Golden Globes. It is the favorite for the Best Picture at the Oscars.
Minari
This movie was released in theaters and on PVOD platforms last month. It premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, and it won both the US Audience Award and the US Grand Jury Prize. It has been nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. The industry supports this film, and it is considered one of the best in 2020.
Judas and the Black Messiah
This film just won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor, and it was nominated for the same award by the Screen Actors Guild. Daniel Kaluuya does a fantastic job of playing Fred Hampton in this film, and it is a must-see.
A Sun
This film was nominated for Best International Feature. It is a family drama, and it tells the story of four family members who experience a tragedy that is unexpected. The film has been described as a tale of crime and punishment that includes elements of comedy, drama, violence, and animation.
A World to Come
The lead lady in this film, Vanessa Kirby, is up for Best Actress in another film, Pieces of a Woman. She does a great job in this one, a tale of two women who are pioneers with a romantic bond. The film was named a Critic’s Pick after the 2020 Venice Film Festival by IndieWire, and it is worth seeing.