What film will win the Oscar for greatest image? The race, for the second, is extra of a free-for-all than it has been in years. For the ten films nominated, being invited to the occasion was simply step one. Now the main target is on profitable. Speaking factors should be refreshed and recalibrated. Existential crises concerning the that means of all of it should be kicked to the curb. The Oscars’ greatest prize is there for the taking!
What messages may these 10 films be sending as we head into the ultimate stretch? Let’s open the envelopes and have a look.
‘ANORA’
Mark Eydelshteyn and Mikey Madison in “Anora.”
(Neon)
Over 230 Prime 10 lists! We all know what you’re considering. There are 230 movie critics nonetheless holding jobs? Sure, even when we needed to stretch the definition to incorporate members of the Critics Selection Assn. However the level is, individuals who love films love this film! Why wouldn’t they? It’s like three basic movies in a single — screwball comedy, home-invasion thriller and a rueful drama of remorse. Plus, there’s romance! And intercourse! And a soulful Russian dude. And Mikey Madison giving one of the best lead efficiency of the yr. All seamlessly woven collectively by a real auteur, Sean Baker. It’s a f— miracle. (Excuse the language. However we’re all grown-ups, aren’t we?)
‘THE BRUTALIST’ 
Adrien Brody in “The Brutalist.”
(A24)
Creating artwork is difficult. It’s the vacation spot, not the journey as a result of, once more, creating artwork is a pitiless course of that may grind you down. That finance man who wonders why your film must be 3 ½ hours lengthy? Every part that’s ugly, merciless and silly — however largely ugly — is his fault. Him and all the opposite dilettantes who don’t know the wonders of VistaVision. Rivers of frivolities could movement (ahem, “Emilia Pérez”), however this film is designed to endure the cultural erosion inflicted by such minutiae. We hope you may have discovered this dialog persuasive and intellectually stimulating.
‘A COMPLETE UNKNOWN’ 
Monica Barbaro and Timothée Chalamet “A Complete Unknown.”
(Searchlight Footage)
[Sung to the tune of “Like a Rolling Stone”]
As soon as upon a time, you voted so fineGave Oscars to guys like Spielberg in his prime, didn’t you?Now folks vote “Everything Everywhere All at Once”You thought they had been kidding youYou used to brag aboutAll the basic films critics would toutNow you don’t speak so loudNow you don’t appear so proudAbout having to stream your subsequent movie
How does it really feel? How does it really feel?To be in your ownVoting for ‘A Complete Unknown’
‘CONCLAVE’ 
Ralph Fiennes stars in “Conclave.”
(Uncredited / Related Press)
You want us. You actually, actually like us. OK, perhaps that’s overstating issues a bit. You want us nicely sufficient. Extra importantly, you don’t hate us. Perhaps we’re not your favourite movie. However how about placing us No. 2 in your preferential poll? As from watching our entertaining, fulfilling film, you by no means know the way an election may go.
‘DUNE: PART TWO’ 
Timothée Chalamet and Austin Butler star in “Dune: Part Two.”
(Niko Tavernise/Warner Bros. Footage)
We’re making an attempt to be magnanimous right here and specific our appreciation for this greatest image nomination and the 4 others you gave us. Thanks! However significantly … what the hell? We gained six Oscars for the primary film, and this one’s even higher. Did you neglect that it got here out this yr? Are your brains that riddled with age and decay? Sorry. That was a bit of out of line. Anyway, once more, thanks. We’re not anticipating a lot … now. However when the third film comes out subsequent yr (and will probably be arriving in December, so that you gained’t have that “It came out too early” excuse), you higher make it as much as us. Snub Denis Villeneuve once more and we’re spiking your popcorn with psychedelic mud.
‘EMILIA PÉREZ’ 
Zoe Saldaña stars in “Emilia Pérez.”
(Shanna Besson/PAGE 114 – WHY NOT)
You don’t go on Reddit, do you? Good. What about Letterboxd? No? Glad to listen to. In truth, you may simply wish to keep off the web till after the Oscars. There’s a number of misinformation on the market. Simply dwell on the truth that “Emilia Pérez” acquired 13 Oscar nominations, greater than another film, and was acknowledged by writers, administrators, actors, musicians … we may go on, however you get the image. Individuals who know concerning the craft of cinema have constantly rewarded this film’s brilliance and audacity. Keep in mind that. Oh, and don’t go on TikTok, both. That place is a cesspool too.
‘I’M STILL HERE’ 
Fernanda Torres stars in “I’m Still Here.”
(Adrian Teijido/Sony Footage Classics)
Look, we’re as stunned as anybody that we’re right here. Thanks, once more! We all know it’s a little bit of stretch to assume we’ll win greatest image, however please do not forget that we additionally earned nominations for lead actress (Golden Globe winner Fernanda Torres!) and worldwide function, the place we’re up towards that different film that the web (and Mexico) hates. We’re viable choices in these classes — principled alternate options, if you’ll.
‘NICKEL BOYS’ 
Brandon Wilson stars in “Nickel Boys.”
(Orion Footage)
The perfect film of the yr? Don’t take our phrase for it. That august physique of cineastes, the Nationwide Society of Movie Critics, mentioned so, and, frankly, it wasn’t even shut. However again to the Oscars. It’s an honor to be nominated and all, however we’re considering there’s room to develop, as we suspect a few of you haven’t fairly gotten round to seeing the film but. Perhaps you’ve learn the guide and contemplate it a masterpiece. The film is just too, in a completely authentic approach.
‘THE SUBSTANCE’ 
Demi Moore stars in “The Substance.”
(Common Studios)
Was that you simply leaving the theater with about 20 minutes to go within the movie? No judgment. Even we notice that ending was a bit a lot, although purely by design. You see, it’s exhausting on the market for ladies of a sure age. However that. Or any individual who is aware of that. Our lead, Demi Moore, positively understands. Did you hear her speech on the Golden Globes after she gained? What an evening! Wouldn’t it’s good to maintain the celebration going?
‘WICKED’ 
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star in “Wicked.”
(Common Footage)
Why not vote for the musical that you simply noticed in a movie show (maybe greater than as soon as), the one which has songs which are, , truly good?