Oscars 2018 Nominations: Best Picture Insights And Analysis

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The Oscars 2018 nominations for Best Picture captivated audiences around the globe, showcasing a diverse range of films that pushed the boundaries of storytelling. In this article, we will delve deep into the films that were nominated, exploring their themes, critical reception, and the impact they had on the film industry. The 90th Academy Awards highlighted not only the artistic achievements but also the cultural conversations that these films sparked. Let's embark on a journey through the nominees and uncover what made each film stand out in a year filled with cinematic excellence.

The Best Picture category at the Oscars holds significant prestige, as it honors the most outstanding films of the year. The 2018 nominees were a testament to the evolving landscape of cinema, with stories ranging from personal narratives to sweeping epics. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of each nomination, focusing on their unique contributions to the film medium and the broader cultural context in which they were released.

As we navigate through these nominees, we will not only discuss their cinematic qualities but also the performances, direction, and production elements that earned them a spot among the finest films of the year. Join us as we reflect on the 2018 Oscars, celebrating the art of filmmaking and the stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Table of Contents

The Nominees for Best Picture

The nominations for the Best Picture category at the 90th Academy Awards were as follows:

FilmDirectorProduction Company
Call Me by Your NameLuca GuadagninoSony Pictures Classics
Darkest HourJoe WrightFocus Features
DunkirkChristopher NolanWarner Bros.
Get OutJordan PeeleUniversal Pictures
Lady BirdGreta GerwigA24
Phantom ThreadPaul Thomas AndersonFocus Features
The PostSteven Spielberg20th Century Fox
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, MissouriMartin McDonaghFox Searchlight Pictures

Call Me by Your Name

Directed by Luca Guadagnino, Call Me by Your Name is a coming-of-age romantic drama based on the novel by André Aciman. Set in the summer of 1983 in Italy, the film tells the story of a passionate relationship between a 17-year-old boy named Elio and his father's research assistant, Oliver. The film received critical acclaim for its stunning cinematography, evocative performances, and its exploration of first love and self-discovery.

  • Cinematography: The film's visuals, captured by Sayombhu Mukdeeprom, beautifully depict the Italian landscape, enhancing the romantic atmosphere.
  • Performances: Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Elio earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, showcasing his emotional range.
  • Impact: The film sparked conversations about sexuality and identity, making it a significant piece of contemporary cinema.

Darkest Hour

Darkest Hour, directed by Joe Wright, is a historical drama that chronicles the early days of Winston Churchill as he becomes Prime Minister during World War II. Gary Oldman's transformative performance as Churchill garnered him the Academy Award for Best Actor. The film is noted for its gripping narrative and powerful depiction of political decision-making during a crisis.

  • Direction: Joe Wright's direction captures the tension of wartime Britain, making viewers feel the weight of history.
  • Historical Significance: The film provides insight into Churchill's leadership and the moral dilemmas faced during the war.
  • Critical Reception: Critics praised the film for its strong performances and compelling storytelling, contributing to its accolades.

Dunkirk

Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk is a war film that recounts the evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk, France, during World War II. The film is notable for its innovative narrative structure, interweaving three different timelines that depict land, sea, and air perspectives of the evacuation. Nolan's masterful direction and Hans Zimmer's haunting score create an intense cinematic experience.

  • Narrative Technique: The film's non-linear storytelling immerses viewers in the chaos of war.
  • Technical Excellence: The film's use of practical effects and IMAX cinematography enhances its realism.
  • Award Recognition:Dunkirk received multiple awards, including Best Editing and Best Sound Mixing, showcasing its technical prowess.

Get Out

Jordan Peele's Get Out is a groundbreaking horror-thriller that blends social commentary with suspense. The film follows Chris, a young African American man, who uncovers a disturbing secret when he visits his white girlfriend's family. Get Out received widespread acclaim for its clever script, direction, and its incisive exploration of race relations in America.

  • Social Commentary: The film addresses systemic racism and societal expectations, resonating with audiences on a deeper level.
  • Genre Innovation: Peele's unique blend of horror and satire has redefined the genre.
  • Awards: The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, marking a significant achievement for a debut filmmaker.

Lady Bird

Lady Bird, directed by Greta Gerwig, is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age film that follows the life of Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson as she navigates her senior year of high school in Sacramento, California. The film is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of adolescence, family dynamics, and the pursuit of identity.

  • Character Development: Saoirse Ronan's performance as Lady Bird is both relatable and poignant, capturing the complexities of teenage life.
  • Direction: Greta Gerwig's directorial debut received praise for its fresh voice and perspective in storytelling.
  • Cultural Impact: The film has become a cultural touchstone, resonating with audiences of all ages.

Phantom Thread

Paul Thomas Anderson's Phantom Thread is a period drama set in the 1950s fashion world of London. The film follows renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock and his complex relationship with a young woman named Alma. The film is noted for its exquisite production design, intricate character dynamics, and Daniel Day-Lewis's final performance before retirement.




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