2011 Oscar Nominees

Best Picture

 

Toy Story 3

It’s hard to believe that perhaps the year’s most emotional cinematic moment came from a film that was completely computer-generated. It was a moment that had the ability to move every member of the family – from young kids to grandparents – without scarring them for life. Toy Story 3 was so much more than an unexpected tearjerker, it was yet another thrilling, witty and fun picture from the creative minds at Disney/Pixar. Yet despite its popularity (it was the highest grossing film of the year), it would take more than a heroic effort from Buzz and Woody to walk away with the Best Picture trophy this year.

 

The King’s Speech

This is the type of movie that Oscar loves. The Kings Speech has it all – a true story steeped in history (a stammering and reluctant king must find his own voice to lead England into World War II), an inspiring performance by a well-liked veteran actor (Colin Firth, in a note-perfect performance), a brilliant supporting cast (the superb Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce) and lots of critical acclaim (including the People’s Choice award at the Toronto International Film Festival). Perhaps the film’s greatest achievement is its ability to take a predictable ending and make it compelling, exciting and satisfying. A worthy contender.

 

The Social Network

Who’d have thought that a movie about the creation of Facebook would be one of the most riveting films of the year? In the hands of David Fincher, The Social Network plays like an intriguing drama/caper containing great performances and layers of meaning. While the real Mark Zuckerberg may argue the accuracy of some facts, you can’t deny the achievement of this movie – and all it says about money, loyalty, friendship, ambition and our culture. An unexpected surprise – and one of the year’s best (and best-reviewed) films. It also has tons of momentum since its Best Picture win at the Golden Globes.

 

Inception

Inception was not only the must-see movie of the summer – it was the must-see-over-and-over-again movie of 2010. A wildly inventive film, the true genius of Inception was its ability to tell a complicated story without talking down to the audience. Sure, it was a bit confusing, but audiences flocked back into theaters because they wanted to understand the complexity. Few movies have that drawing power. Combine that with another terrific Leonardo DiCaprio performance (not to mention a strong supporting cast) and the mind-bending visual effects, and you have a true Oscar contender.

 

Winter’s Bone

While Winter’s Bone was a critical favorite last year, some moviegoers were put off by the slow-moving plot. However, no one can deny the star-making turn by 20-year-old Jennifer Lawrence, who could well become a huge star within the next five years. Her character, Ree Dolly, is a quiet storm of strength and desperation in a backwater world of blood feuds and harrowing drug addiction. Sure, the ride is slow, but that only helps the tension simmer to an unbearable heat. This is one of those small films where success comes from just being nominated. It may not get the Best Picture Oscar – but it will get something even more important – an audience.

 

127 Hours

You know that 127 Hours is a tough sell when even the director calls it “an action movie with a guy who can't move.” Fortunately that director is Danny Boyle, the man behind the ultimate underdog smash, Slumdog Millionaire. Boyle’s gift, particularly in 127 Hours is his ability to make a movie about this subject matter so vividly watchable. The talented James Franco plays real-life explorer Aron Ralston, who had to cut off his own arm in order to free himself from a boulder. Without his amazing portrayal, this film wouldn’t have gotten the attention that it has. Although it was a hit at the Toronto International Film Festival, it hasn’t made a huge impact at the box office, which will hurt its chances on Oscar night.

 

The Kids Are All Right

One of Hollywood’s most interesting on-screen couples last year was Julianne Moore and Annette Bening, as Jules and Nic in The Kids Are Alright. A well-received comedy drama (with a plot-line of soap opera proportions) addresses the issues of family (in its many incarnations) as well as marriage, loyalty and intimacy. The ever-reliable Marc Ruffalo is terrific as the real father (via sperm donation) of Jules and Nic’s two kids who complicates matters by having a relationship with Jules. With a miniscule budget, the film proves that money isn’t a pre-requisite for quality. And its recent win at the Golden Globes will add to its momentum going into the Oscars.

 

The Fighter

It’s not often that an actor gets to play the part of one of his real-life heroes, but in the case of The Fighter, that’s exactly what happened. Growing up in Boston, Mark Wahlberg loved the against-all-odds story of Micky Ward and jumped at the chance to play him. His teaming with Golden Globe winners Christian Bale and Melissa Leo makes The Fighter one of the most compelling and brutally honest films of the year. It also helps that Amy Adams was determined to play against type in this film – a move that has earned her many accolades. Great performances plus David O’Russell’s taut direction makes The Fighter a winner. But it’s not likely to nab the big prize from the other heavyweights in this division.

 

Black Swan

Creepy, disturbing, shocking and beautiful. Not too many Best Picture nominees can claim that combination of adjectives. Black Swan delves into the world of ballet that’s much more than just tutus and pirouettes. Both Natalie Portman and her on-screen rival Mila Kunis trained hard for six months in preparation for their roles. As with director Darren Aronofsky’s previous project, The Wrestler, Black Swan illustrates the gruelling physical dedication of these career performers. But while this movie was widely acclaimed by critics, the horror aspect of Black Swan has divided some moviegoers. Not likely to win the Best Picture category, look for Black Swan to nab one or two individual awards instead.

 

True Grit

Remakes of classic movies don’t often get Oscar nods, but with this re-imagining of the John Wayne western, The Coen Brothers have made their most popular film ever – with critics and audiences in almost universal agreement. In actual fact, this is not a remake of the 1969 film, it is an adaptation of the original novel by Charles Potis. The storytelling is left to 14-year-old newcomer Hailee Steinfeld (who beat out 15,000 other young girls to win the role). Of course, it also helps when you land Jeff Bridges (still hot from last year’s Oscar win) as well as Matt Damon and Josh Brolin to hold down the fort.

By Tom Jokic