The 3 movies you should watch to sound smart before the Oscars
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"One Battle After Another" is announced as a Best Picture contender during the Oscars' nomination announcement. Photo: Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images
We know now the 10 contenders vying for Best Picture at the Academy Awards in March, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the idea of watching that many movies.
Why it matters: Trying to see them all is hard! Americans still aren't turning out to movie theaters en masse, and even if they make the journey, their local cineplex might not be screening some of the more niche contenders.
So if you've got an Oscar party on your calendar, but not a lot of free time, these are the three movies to prioritize:
"One Battle After Another"
Nothing is guaranteed, but Paul Thomas Anderson's Pynchon-inspired magnum opus is almost surely this year's Best Picture. The tale of ersatz political revolutionaries fighting back against an authoritarian government force is the type of timely film that Hollywood loves to reward — and it's bolstered by Anderson being long overdue after past masterpieces like "There Will Be Blood" and "Phantom Thread" couldn't bring home gold.
Why you should watch: If you've only got time for one, this is it. It's an action flick, a satirical comedy and a political statement all at once, so there's something for everyone. Add in Leonardo DiCaprio's best comedic role in years plus a star turn from newcomer Chase Infiniti, and you'll be shocked by how quickly the almost three-hour runtime flies by.
Now streaming on HBO Max.
"Sinners"
The most-nominated movie of all-time is bonkers in the best way: part-1930s period piece, part-vampire bloodbath. The Academy loves to overlook horror movies, but writer/director Ryan Coogler's parable about the systemic exploitation of Black culture in American history is undeniable. It's the frontrunner for Best Original Screenplay and a host of other technical awards.
Why you should watch: Coogler's centerpiece juke joint scene — you'll know it when you see it — is perhaps the best of the year, an ode to the power of music that'll stick in your brain long after the movie ends. And what's better than a powerhouse Michael B. Jordan performance? Michael B. Jordan playing twins!
Now streaming on HBO Max.
"Sentimental Value"
The best acting ensemble of the year shines in this more-fun-than-you'd-think Norwegian tale of generational trauma. Director Joachim Trier has long been a cinephile darling, but he snagged Stellan Skarsgard and Elle Fanning for his biggest swing yet. Best Supporting Actor and Actress are some of Oscar night's biggest tossups, but this film is in play for both.
Why you should watch: The Academy is embracing more international cinema, and you should, too! Renate Reinsve shows why she's set to be a star, but the relatively unknown Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas steals the show. If you've got siblings, get the tissues ready ahead of their climactic scene together.
Available via VOD ($14.99 rental) on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube.
👀 If you've got time to watch them all, here's where all the other contenders are streaming.
