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4 Oscar Nominees That Are Truly Worth the Watch

4 Oscar Nominees That Are Truly Worth the Watch

Let’s call it like it is: 2024 was not cinema’s finest hour. Hollywood served up a steady diet of sequels nobody asked for, blockbusters that barely busted, and franchise cash grabs so blatant they were almost impressive. But against all odds, a handful of films did manage to cut through the chaos.

These newly Oscar-nominated gems didn’t just stand out—they actually delivered stories with heart, brains and staying power. And the best part? They’re not just worth the hype—they might even change the way you see the world.

Here are four nominees that, in our humble opinion, deserve your time:

A Complete Unknown

In theaters now

Making a movie about Bob Dylan that doesn’t feel like a glorified Spotify playlist is no small feat, but A Complete Unknown gets it right. Instead of rehashing his hits, it wrestles with Dylan’s legacy—the messy, era-defining genius who didn’t just write songs but rewrote cultural expectations. For anyone who’s ever struggled with loving a hero who’s as complicated as they are brilliant, this one’s for you. And yes, the soundtrack is chef’s kiss.

Conclave

Available on Peacock

Set inside the secretive world of the Vatican during a papal election, Conclave could’ve gone full political thriller. Instead, it turns the lens inward, focusing on faith, doubt and the razor-thin line between the two. There’s one monologue in particular—a gut-punch of vulnerability about the role of doubt in belief—that’ll stick with you long after the credits roll. If you’re looking for a film that hits you right in the theology, this is it.

Nickel Boys

In theaters now

Adapted from Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-winning novel, Nickel Boys pulls no punches. It’s a harrowing look at systemic racism through the true story of an abusive reform school in the Jim Crow South. This isn’t a “feel-good” watch, but it’s the kind of storytelling that stays with you, challenging you to think deeper about justice and redemption. Grab the tissues. And maybe a notebook—you’re gonna want to process this one.

Dune: Part Two

Available on Netflix or Max

Yes, it’s sci-fi, but Dune: Part Two carries the weight of an epic biblical saga. Paul Atreides isn’t just a hero—he’s a young leader grappling with the complexities of power, responsibility and what it really means to lead. The story wrestles with the messy consequences of wielding influence, the tension between personal ambition and community, and the cost of fulfilling a destiny that feels bigger than one person. Add in stunning visuals, razor-sharp political intrigue and Timothée Chalamet brooding in a desert, and you’ve got a film that’s as thought-provoking as it is ridiculously entertaining.

With these picks, you’re not just watching award-worthy films—you’re diving into stories that challenge, inspire and stick with you. Now, go hit play (or book a ticket, you know, if you’re fancy).

© 2023 RELEVANT Media Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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