The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, set to take place in 2024, promises to be a grand event for movie lovers worldwide. The Oscars, held annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognize excellence in cinematic achievements across various categories. As the industry’s most anticipated awards show, the Oscar nominations are closely scrutinized, with every announcement sparking conversations about the most deserving films, performances, and technical achievements of the year.
As we approach the Oscars 2024, speculation has already begun around the frontrunners. With a remarkable slate of films released in 2023, including a mixture of original creations and sequels, audiences are eager to see which films will dominate the nominations and which underdogs will earn recognition.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the key categories for the 2024 Academy Awards, highlighting the likely nominees and potential surprises. From Best Picture to Best Director, Actor, and beyond, let’s dive into the films and individuals that are most likely to receive the prestigious honor of an Oscar nomination in 2024.
1. Best Picture Nominations 2024
The Best Picture category is often the most discussed, as it represents the crowning achievement of the cinematic year. For the 2024 Oscars, several films stand out as strong contenders. These include works from both established filmmakers and rising talents, spanning a variety of genres from historical dramas to blockbusters and intimate personal stories.
Top Contenders for Best Picture
- “Oppenheimer” (Director: Christopher Nolan)
Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated biographical drama about J. Robert Oppenheimer and his role in the creation of the atomic bomb has garnered significant critical acclaim. With stunning performances by Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr., paired with the director’s signature visual style, “Oppenheimer” is poised to dominate the awards season. Its exploration of morality, power, and human ambition gives it a depth that appeals to both audiences and critics. - “Barbie” (Director: Greta Gerwig)
Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” a surprise hit of the summer, proved to be more than just a playful adaptation of the iconic toy. The film’s nuanced social commentary on gender, identity, and self-discovery, combined with a witty script and stellar performances by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, has made it a serious contender for Best Picture. Its success at the box office, alongside its critical reception, positions it as a front-runner. - “Killers of the Flower Moon” (Director: Martin Scorsese)
Martin Scorsese’s epic historical drama, based on the Osage murders of the 1920s, is a gripping tale about systemic injustice, greed, and racism. With a powerhouse cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone, the film has been lauded for its historical significance and emotional depth. Given Scorsese’s history with the Academy, this film is expected to earn several nominations, including Best Picture. - “The Color Purple” (Director: Blitz Bazawule)
The new adaptation of the beloved novel by Alice Walker, directed by Blitz Bazawule, brings a fresh perspective to the story of Celie, a woman struggling to overcome oppression in early 20th-century America. With powerful performances and a new musical twist, “The Color Purple” could resonate with voters, making it a contender for a Best Picture nomination. - “Past Lives” (Director: Celine Song)
A smaller, intimate drama about love, fate, and identity, “Past Lives” has won over critics and audiences alike for its quiet, yet poignant exploration of relationships. The film’s universal themes and emotional honesty make it a strong contender, especially in a year that could see the Academy recognizing more diverse, inclusive voices.
Dark Horses and Potential Surprises
- “The Marvels” (Director: Nia DaCosta)
As one of the few superhero films released in 2023 with a female director at the helm, “The Marvels” brings an empowering, colorful narrative to the genre. While blockbuster superhero films rarely make it to the Best Picture category, this film’s distinct tone and inclusive storytelling could be a game-changer. - “The Holdovers” (Director: Alexander Payne)
Alexander Payne’s comedic drama set in a 1970s prep school has received positive buzz for its smart writing and the chemistry between its leads. If voters appreciate a more lighthearted contender in a year dominated by serious dramas, “The Holdovers” could sneak in.
2. Best Director Nominations 2024
The Best Director category often serves as a predictor for who will win Best Picture, though this is not always the case. Several prominent directors are expected to vie for the 2024 Oscar for Best Director, with newcomers and veterans alike standing out with their exceptional work.
Top Contenders for Best Director
- Christopher Nolan (“Oppenheimer”)
With his ability to craft complex, visually stunning narratives, Nolan has long been a favorite of the Academy. “Oppenheimer” has received overwhelming praise for its direction, and many anticipate that Nolan will secure his fourth Best Director nomination (he has previously been nominated for “Dunkirk,” “Inception,” and “Memento”). - Greta Gerwig (“Barbie”)
Greta Gerwig’s achievement with “Barbie” is remarkable, not only for its creative direction but also for its bold, feminist take on a pop-culture icon. Her ability to balance humor, social commentary, and visual storytelling could earn her a much-deserved nomination for Best Director. - Martin Scorsese (“Killers of the Flower Moon”)
Scorsese is no stranger to the Oscars, having won Best Director for “The Departed.” Given the gravitas of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” it’s almost certain that he’ll receive another nomination, as his masterful direction of this historical epic continues to impress. - Celine Song (“Past Lives”)
Celine Song’s debut feature has resonated deeply with critics, and her delicate direction of “Past Lives” may earn her a nomination. Her exploration of relationships and the passage of time through a tender, minimalist lens is earning praise for its subtlety and depth.
Dark Horses and Potential Surprises
- Nia DaCosta (“The Marvels”)
Nia DaCosta’s direction of “The Marvels” sets it apart from typical superhero fare, and her approach could lead to an unexpected nomination. If the Academy embraces more diversity and inclusivity, DaCosta’s name could be in the mix. - Blitz Bazawule (“The Color Purple”)
Bazawule’s fresh take on “The Color Purple” could land him a nomination, especially if the film is well-received for its visual flair and powerful direction.
3. Best Actor Nominations 2024
Best Actor is often a fiercely contested category, with standout performances from both seasoned veterans and emerging stars. In 2024, several actors are vying for a nomination based on their exceptional portrayals in a variety of films.
Top Contenders for Best Actor
- Cillian Murphy (“Oppenheimer”)
Cillian Murphy’s performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer is widely expected to earn him a Best Actor nomination. His portrayal of the physicist, whose genius is overshadowed by the moral implications of his work, is intense, nuanced, and captivating. - Leonardo DiCaprio (“Killers of the Flower Moon”)
DiCaprio’s performance as Ernest Burkhart in “Killers of the Flower Moon” is receiving widespread acclaim. Given his history with the Academy and his ability to deliver gripping performances, he’s a strong contender for Best Actor. - Paul Giamatti (“The Holdovers”)
Paul Giamatti’s turn as a grumpy professor in “The Holdovers” has been hailed as one of his best performances in years. If the film continues to gain traction in the awards season, Giamatti could secure a nomination.
Dark Horses and Potential Surprises
- Jonathan Majors (“Magazine Dreams”)
Jonathan Majors’ raw performance in “Magazine Dreams,” where he portrays a bodybuilder struggling with self-identity and obsession, has been praised for its depth. This performance could be the breakout moment Majors needs to secure his first Oscar nomination. - Tom Hanks (“A Man Called Otto”)
Hanks’ portrayal of a curmudgeonly widower who finds new purpose in life could appeal to the Academy voters. Though the film was released earlier in the year, his performance is still being discussed as a potential Best Actor contender.
4. Best Actress Nominations 2024
The Best Actress category is equally competitive, with standout performances from both newcomers and seasoned veterans. In 2024, the race for Best Actress is particularly fierce.
Top Contenders for Best Actress
- Margot Robbie (“Barbie”)
Margot Robbie’s transformative performance in “Barbie” is generating significant buzz. Playing the iconic character, Robbie imbues Barbie with a mix of humor, pathos, and social consciousness, making her a strong contender for Best Actress. - Lily Gladstone (“Killers of the Flower Moon”)
Lily Gladstone’s performance as Mollie Burkhart in “Killers of the Flower Moon” has been widely praised. Her ability to convey the emotional and physical toll of the Osage murders could earn her an Academy nomination.
