Netflix Movies With Oscar Potential For The 94th Academy Awards
As many of us know, the 94th Academy Awards (otherwise known as the Oscars) will soon be upon us. With the recent surge of Netflix movies being released, the streaming company has made its presence in the awards contenders. We’ve compiled a list of the Netflix originals with the potential for being crowned the 94th Academy Award winners in the following categories: Best Picture, Best Actor/Actress, Best Supporting Actor/Actress, and Best Director.
Best Picture
Mank
From the director of Se7en and The Social Network, director David Fincher’s Mank follows the story of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz and his tumultuous journey of developing the script for Citizen Kane. With a solid web of performances, this biographical drama looks to gain attention for its suitability of the Academy’s honoring.
The Trial of the Chicago 7
Directed by the future A-lister Aaron Sorkin, The Trial of the Chicago 7 follows the lurid trial against seven defendants charged with conspiracy and crossing state lines to incite riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. With strong backing from Netflix, the movie is primed to become a strong contender.
Da 5 Bloods
Among the many powerful films to come out this year, Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods is among those which stands out. As the veteran black veterans embark on a chaotic mission in a harrowing retrieval, the movie stands a solid chance of taking the coveted prize.
The Midnight Sky
George Clooney, who won for best screenplay for 2006’s Good night and Good Luck, directed and stars in The Midnight Sky. Playing as both scientist Augustine and NASA astronaut Sully, this Netflix movie combines fears of nuclear devastation and the technological gap of space with the ticking clock of death.
Best Actor
Gary Oldman for Mank
When it comes to practically embodying Herman J. Mankiewicz, the film’s subject, Gary Oldman delivers truthfully with deep remorse and raw wit. 2019’s best actor winner may be looking to go back-to-back with a win under his belt as Mank.
Jeffrey Wright for Da 5 Bloods
As part of Spike Lee’s acclaimed war film, Jeffrey Wright delivers an emotional performance that lands him a spot among the top contenders for this award. Wright plays the role of Paul, the oldest and wisest of the Bloods. His performance is astounding and his supporting roles in the likes of Westworld and Bond further explain why he is a shoe-in.
George Clooney for The Midnight Sky
With awards throughout his career, George Clooney reasserts his surprise (if any) with a great performance in The Midnight Sky. Clooney is a couple of points away from an EGOT, and he may be a couple of points away from that when the awards are announced.
Best Actress
Sophia Wilcock for Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
A Netflix movie full of blues riffs, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom stars none other than Viola Davis. Joining as well is the newcomer, Sophia Wilcock as Dussie Mae. Wilcock’s performance was praised by critics alike, as they raved about the new actress’s performance.
Cristin Milioti for Palm Springs
A romantic comedy with the often-used formula of being stuck in a time loop, Palm Springs never fails to entertain. Cristin Milioti, playing Sarah, does an outstanding job at carrying the movie and her performance could come into full circle with an Oscar.
Best Supporting Actor
Al Pacino for The Irishman
Anthony Hopkins for The Father
Paul Raci for Sound Of Metal
Best Supporting Actress
Youn Yuh Jung for Minari
Jodie Foster for The Mauritanian
Amy Adams for Hillbilly Elegy
Best Director
David Fincher for Mank
Spike Lee for Da 5 Bloods
George Clooney for The Midnight Sky
Aaron Sorkin for The Trial of the Chicago 7
Emerald Fennell for Promising Young Woman
The 94th Academy Awards is bound to be an exciting time as many of these films will be shared and celebrated throughout the world. With Netflix being a notable contender that’s on the honor list, one can only expect the best films to come out of the streaming company.
Despite the fact that the Oscars isn’t the end-all-be-all of recognition, a win is always a trophy of glory, one that looks to be shared with many of the films on this list. As for who will take it home? Only time will tell.
