2017 Academy Awards Predictions For Best Picture Nominations

Despite the summer’s mess of abysmal blockbuster releases, there were still some hidden gems in the mix, and there’s no better way to honor the best than to see which ones will be nominated for the most coveted prize of the year in the film industry: Best Picture.

Films that will be nominated for sure (based on status, past awards, and reception):

Moonlight  directed by Barry Jenkins

There is not much that hasn’t been said about this indie darling. A story of growing up in a world of suppression, it seems like the perfect film to take one of the nomination spots. With awards from the New York Film Critic’s Circle, Gotham Independent Films and so many more, Moonlight seems destined to be crowned Best Picture.

Manchester by the Sea directed by Kenneth Lonergan

Sure, the controversies surrounding star Casey Affleck are glaring. I’m not telling anyone to ignore them, I’m only here to advocate for a film that’s been raved about since it was released. The film is an honest portrayal of working-class life, set against a beautiful New England backdrop. Plus, its star power does not hurt its chances.

Hell or High Water directed by David Mackenzie

A film like this makes me happy. Not because its story is anything uplifting, but because great westerns are hard to find these days. Even rarer are the ones not directed by a Coen or Tarantino. Its modern-day setting and pulpy story set it apart this Oscar season. Plus, Jeff Bridges in a cowboy hat is always great. Always.

La La Land directed by Damien Chazelle

If great westerns are hard to find these days, musicals are near impossible. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone have sung their way to both box office and critical success. If nominated for the big prize, it will be the first musical since Les Miserables in the 2013 ceremony. If it wins, it will be the first musical to win since Chicago back in 2003. Both those films were disappointing their respective years, but La La Land seems to break that tradition.

Films that should be nominated (great movies that have been talked about that have a chance of being nominated):

Silence directed by Martin Scorsese

Ah yes, the 20-year-old passion project from quite possibly the greatest filmmaker alive is finally out. Not only that, it’s eligible for this year’s Oscars. Scorsese’s last nomination (and film released) was in the 2014 awards ceremony for The Wolf of Wall Street. His last win, however, was more than 10 years ago when he won Best Director and The Departed won Best Picture.

The Nice Guys directed by Shane Black

Easily the greatest film released during the summer, this underrated gem is another masterpiece from Shane Black himself. I feel like this will be overshadowed by another Ryan Gosling movie involving music, but this is one film voters should not ignore. It’s a funny, smart and engaging buddy cop film that nails 1970s Los Angeles perfectly.

Hacksaw Ridge directed by Mel Gibson

A triumphant return to a director shut out by scandals, Mel Gibson’s latest directorial effort tells the true story of a soldier who served in World War II without ever firing a gun. Its war setting and powerful story make it an easy contender within the 10 nominees.

Birth of a Nation directed by Nate Parker

The story of Nat Turner’s slave rebellion has been overshadowed by accusations of assault. But despite those allegations, the film itself should still be nominated for the big prize. Its story is epic in scope, and one that deals with issues that still resonate with the country today. It’s that important.

Dark horses (a film that needs to make a good case to get up there):

10 Cloverfield Lane directed by Dan Trachtenberg

Easily the best science fiction movie of the year, no film has nailed atmosphere better than 10 Cloverfield Lane. No film has completely had me engrossed or genuinely creeped out this year like 10 Cloverfield Lane has. It’s a genre film, which struggles with Oscar voters, but this one sets itself apart from the masses. As a bonus, John Goodman needs to get a Best Supporting Actor nomination. Please?