With the Academy Awards season upon us, cinephiles are gearing up to review this year's top contenders for Best Picture. The 2025 Oscar nominations feature films across various genres, each promising to offer something unique. Here’s your guide to some of the standout films you won't want to miss, complete with insights and where to find them.
First up is Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, directed by Michael Morris. This charming sequel brings back Renée Zellweger as the much-loved Bridget Jones, who is now widowed and learning to embrace life anew. It's not just another rom-com; this film dives deep, showcasing themes of resilience and self-discovery. Critics hail it as the best sequel yet, with Zellweger's performance capturing both tenderness and humor. At 124 minutes, it’s available for streaming on Peacock, and worth every minute.
Following the lighter fare, we turn to the powerful documentary No Other Land. This film, crafted by a Palestinian-Israeli collective, tells the story of friendship amid conflict, between Basel Adra, a young Palestinian activist, and Yuval Abraham, an Israeli with newly shaped viewpoints. This poignant documentary shines light on the complex struggles of their homeland and the harsh realities faced by many. While it’s not yet available for streaming, it's one to keep on your radar, especially for those wanting to understand the nuances of this persistent conflict.
Next is Porcelain War, another documentary focusing on artists caught in the crossfire of the war in Ukraine. This film intriguingly contrasts the beauty of art with the brutality of war, showcasing how artists maintain their creativity amid chaos. The 87-minute film is marked by stunning visuals and heartfelt stories, but is currently unavailable for streaming, highlighting the need for viewer advocacy to keep such stories alive.
If you're searching for dramatic storytelling, look no farther than I’m Still Here. Directed by Walter Salles, this gripping narrative is set against Brazil’s turbulent 1970 backdrop, depicting the life of civil engineer Rubens Paiva and his determined wife, Eunice. The film’s exploration of love and resistance under political oppression has garnered strong acclaim. It's hitting theaters soon, so mark your calendars!
For those who enjoy taking spooky turns, Presence offers a ghostly perspective, directed by the renowned Steven Soderbergh. The film puts viewers directly inside the mind of the ghost, providing both tension and insight. Critics have noted its unsettling atmosphere as both engaging and thought-provoking. Running 84 minutes, it’s also not yet available for streaming, but keep your eyes peeled.
Another compelling entry this year is Hard Truths by Mike Leigh. The film centers on the life of a middle-aged London woman struggling against her own tumultuous emotions. Leigh’s signature improvisational style brings authenticity to the characters, making it relatable for many viewers. It's currently available for streaming on major platforms like Apple and Google Play.
Switching gears, Better Man mixes biography with music, taking viewers on Robbie Williams' rollercoaster career. Director Michael Gracey presents this musical biopic with creative flair, including CGI effects, making it engaging for both fans and new viewers. At 135 minutes, it’s currently available for streaming on platforms like Apple and YouTube.
Lastly, Nickel Boys, directed by RaMell Ross, based on Colson Whitehead’s novel, is another must-see. It recounts the harrowing true stories emanated from a notorious reform institution and addresses historical injustices faced by young black men. The film’s lush visuals and haunting score underline its poignant narrative. With its impending release on Apple and Prime Video, this film will undoubtedly be one of the headliners for the Oscars.
Cramming for the Oscars doesn't have to be overwhelming. With this guide, you can navigate this year’s nominees with ease. Whether you prefer light-hearted romances, deep emotional narratives, or powerful documentaries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your popcorn and get ready for what promises to be another memorable awards season!