For movie buffs, February 10 is more than just another everyday day. Celebrating the significance and influence of cinema on people’s lives, people all across the globe are honoring Global Movie Day.
Here are some award-winning movies to watch 2024 for those cinema buffs or casual viewers who are looking for fresh releases to keep an eye on.
From Classics to Contemporary: 5 Award Winning Films for Global Movie Day
1. “Killers of the Flower Moon” (Apple Studios, Imperative Entertainment, Sikelia Productions, Appian Way Productions)
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is a riveting crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese based on David Grann’s best-selling novel.
The adapted screenplay is set in 1920s Oklahoma, the film follows the unlawful plot behind the killings of Osage Nation members, as well as the ensuing inquiry performed by the newly founded FBI.
With excellent performances from Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio, “Killers of the Flower Moon” goes into the depths of greed, corruption, and treachery, revealing surprising facts along the way.
As tensions rise and justice hangs in the balance, the film provides a gripping examination of power, privilege, and the tenacity of those striving for truth and justice.
2. “Poor Things” (Searchlight Pictures)
Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone, “Poor Things” is a dark comedy-drama that follows the unconventional life of Bella Baxter, a woman brought back to life through a scientific experiment.
As Bella navigates her newfound existence and grapples with the complexities of identity and agency, the film offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of humanity and society.
3. Past Lives (CJ ENM, Killer Films, 2AM, A24)
“Past Lives” is a poignant drama directed by Celine Song, exploring the mysteries of existence and the eternal nature of the soul.
The film, which is Song’s directorial debut, follows a woman as she grapples with her former lives, unraveling profound truths about love, loss, and the human experience.
The movie offers a thought-provoking meditation on memory, identity, and the interconnectedness of all things.
4. Oppenheimer (Universal Pictures)
Universal Pictures’ “Oppenheimer” is a biographical drama film directed by Christopher Nolan about the life and impact of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American theoretical physicist renowned as the “father of the atomic bomb.”
The film goes into Oppenheimer’s vital involvement in the Manhattan Project during World War II and the moral challenges he faced as he battled with his creation’s deadly force.
The Christopher Nolan film based on true story boasts notable cast members including Cillian Murphy, who plays J. Robert Oppenheimer stars opposite Emily Blunt, Robert Downey Jr., Ryan Gosling and Michael Caine in supporting parts.
The highly acclaimed World War II biopic brought home Golden Globe awards including Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director award for Christopher Nolan, and Best Original Score (Ludwig Göransson). Both Cillian Murphy and Robery Downey, Jr. were hailed with acting accolades for their respective roles.
5. The Holdovers
American comedy-drama film The Holdovers, written by David Hemingson and directed by Alexander Payne, is one of Focus Features’ films in 2023.
This wonderful story follows Paul Giamatti, who plays a strict classics teacher at a boarding school in New England, as he is forced to accompany a small number of students who are without a place to spend the Christmas break in 1970 and 1971.
Dominic Sessa plays a student who stays on campus and Da’Vine Joy Randolph plays the school food manager.
Honorable Mentions
The Zone of Interest (Film4, Access, Polish Film Institute, JW Films, Extreme Emotions, A24, Gutek Film)
“The Zone of Interest” is a historical drama film directed by Jonathan Glazer, based on the acclaimed novel by Martin Amis.
Set in the heart of Nazi Germany during World War II, the film explores the morally complex and harrowing realities of life within the confines of Auschwitz.
“Anatomy of a Fall” (Les Films Pelléas, Les Films de Pierre, Le Pacte)
Anatomy of a Fall is a French legal drama thriller film directed by Justine Triet. The movie portrays Sandra Hüller as a writer attempting to prove her innocence in her husband’s death.
“Eternal Memory” (Micromundo, Fabula, MTV Documentary Films)
“The Eternal Memory” by Maite Alberdi is a thought-provoking documentary on the intricacies of memory, identity, and the human experience.
Alberdi’s personal narrative and empathic observation bring viewers into the lives of those dealing with the problems of aging and memory loss.
“Last Repair Shop” (Breakwater Studios, Searchlight Pictures, L.A. Times Studios)
“Last Repair Shop” is a short documentary film directed by Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers.
Set against the backdrop of economic hardship and social turmoil, the movie depicts the attempts of a community to maintain a valued landmark.
The Prestigious Film Festivals: A Glimpse into Excellence
Here are a few of the most prestigious competitions where filmmakers fight for recognition:
Cannes Film Festival
Known for showcasing the crème de la crème of international cinema, the Cannes Film Festival sets the stage for cinematic brilliance each year.
Venice Film Festival
Many in the film business and cinephiles alike flock to the Venice Film Festival every year to see the world-famous celebration of innovative storytelling and artistic innovation.
Academy Awards
Fondly known as the Oscars, the Academy Awards honor excellence in filmmaking and recognize outstanding achievements in various categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor/Actress.
The anticipation surrounding the Oscar nominations and eventual winners adds an extra layer of excitement to the awards season.
Critics Choice Documentary Awards
Dedicating a spotlight to the art of documentary filmmaking, the Critics Choice Documentary Awards celebrate the best in non-fiction storytelling, shedding light on important issues and compelling narratives from around the globe.
SAG Awards
The Screen Actors Guild Awards pay tribute to the finest performances in film and television, honoring actors for their outstanding contributions to the craft. From leading roles to supporting characters, the SAG Awards recognize excellence across various acting categories.
Celebrating Excellence: Award-Winning Performances and Productions
Best Picture Nominees
Several films in the list such as Oppenheimer, The Holdovers, The Zone of Interest, Poor Things, Past Lives, Anatomy of a Fall, and Killers of the Flower Moon have Oscar nominations.
Maestro with its lead cast Bradley Cooper and American Fiction are also Best Picture nominees.
Best Director
Behind every great film is a visionary director who brings a story to life with skill and imagination. The Best Director category honors the individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and artistry in shaping the cinematic experience.
Best Actor and Best Actress
The acting categories celebrate the talent and dedication of performers who breathe life into memorable characters and captivating narratives.
Whether portraying complex protagonists or compelling supporting roles, these actors and actresses have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
Best Supporting Actor/Actress
In addition to leading roles, the supporting categories recognize the contributions of actors who elevate their scenes and enrich the overall storytelling experience.
From scene-stealing performances to nuanced character portrayals, these supporting actors and actresses deserve recognition for their outstanding work.
Best Original Song Category
Music plays a vital role in enhancing the emotional impact of a film, and the category honors the songwriters and performers who have created memorable musical moments on screen.
Documentary Feature Film
Documentary filmmaking offers a unique opportunity to explore real-world issues and share important stories with audiences.
The Documentary Feature Film category recognizes the filmmakers who have shed light on pressing social, political, and environmental issues through the power of non-fiction storytelling.
International Feature Film
The International Feature Film category celebrates the rich diversity of global cinema, showcasing compelling stories and perspectives from around the world.
From intimate dramas to epic adventures, these international films offer audiences a glimpse into different cultures and societies.
With yet another awards season just around the corner, these movies are sure to take home the awards they deserve.
So, round up your loved ones, get out the popcorn, and settle down for some movies from this selection.
