Awards Season 2024: A Whistle-Stop Tour of the Biggest Contenders

Introduction to the Awards Season: Unpredictability and Surprises

Awards season is officially underway, and this year, it’s shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable races in recent memory. With no clear front-runners and several films launching in the UK later than usual, the competition is wide open. From groundbreaking musicals to intense dramas, the contenders this year are as diverse as they are compelling. Let’s take a closer look at some of the films that are making waves and where you can catch them.

Musicals Take Center Stage: Emilia Perez and Wicked

After a 22-year drought, musicals are making a comeback at the Oscars, with not one but two major contenders vying for attention. The first, Emilia Perez, is a French director’s ambitious Spanish-language musical about a Mexican drug lord who transitions genders. Starring trans actress Karla Sofia Gascon, the film has made history as the most nominated foreign-language film ever, with an impressive 13 Oscar nods. However, Gascon’s journey to glory hit a speed bump when controversial tweets resurfaced, casting doubt on her chances.

Despite the setbacks, Emilia Perez has already proven its mettle, winning four Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture in the musical and comedy category. The film also boasts a star-studded cast, including Zoe Saldana and Selena Gomez, both of whom praised the project’s uniqueness and challenges. Saldana described it as “the niche of the niche of the niche film,” while Gomez celebrated the opportunity to act in Spanish as a “joyful challenge.” However, not everyone is singing its praises. Some Mexican viewers have accused the film of reducing their culture to stereotypes, and parts of the trans community have criticized its portrayal of transitioning as regressive. Additionally, the film’s use of AI to tweak Gascon’s high notes has sparked debate. Emilia Perez is now available to stream on Netflix.

The other musical in the mix is Wicked, the long-awaited prequel to The Wizard of Oz, starring pop superstar Ariana Grande and Tony-winning actress Cynthia Erivo. While it’s been a box office smash, becoming the highest-grossing musical adaptation ever, its awards prospects are less certain. The film took home a Golden Globe for cinematic and box office achievement, a new category it shares with last year’s winner, Barbie. However, its success at the Oscars remains to be seen. Wicked is currently available to rent or buy on demand, including on Sky Store.

Male-Led Dramas: The Brutalist and Conclave

Awards season wouldn’t be complete without its share of gritty, male-led dramas, and this year is no exception. One of the most talked-about films is The Brutalist, a three-and-a-half-hour epic about Hungarian architect Laszlo Toth, played by Adrien Brody, who tries to rebuild his life in post-World War II America. The film, which even includes an interval, has been praised for Brody’s performance, with co-star Guy Pearce describing him as “almost intimidating he’s so good.” Brody, who already has an Oscar under his belt, could be in line for a second win after The Brutalist swept the Golden Globes, taking home Best Motion Picture in the drama category, as well as wins for Brody and director Brady Corbet. However, the film has also stirred controversy over its use of AI to “refine” the lead actors’ Hungarian accents. The Brutalist is now in cinemas.

Another heavy hitter in the drama category is Conclave, a papal drama that delves into the secretive process of electing a new Pope. With over 100 high-ranking clergymen, each with their own dark pasts, the film is a gripping exploration of power, corruption, and redemption. Directed by Ralph Fiennes, who also stars alongside Stanley Tucci and Isabella Rossellini, Conclave is the most nominated film at this year’s BAFTAs. Fiennes has emphasized that the film isn’t a simplistic takedown of the Catholic Church but rather a nuanced exploration of its complexities. “It’s not a facile takedown,” he told Sky News. “I think it approaches it with curiosity.” Conclave is now available to rent or buy on demand.

Timothée Chalamet: A Dual Contender in Dune: Part Two and A Complete Unknown

Timothée Chalamet is flying the flag for two very different films this awards season. The first is Dune: Part Two, the highly anticipated sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic. Chalamet reprises his role as Paul Atreides, who embarks on a quest for revenge after his family’s brutal betrayal. With Villeneuve praising Chalamet’s indispensable talent, the film is expected to be a major player in the awards race. Dune: Part Two is now available to rent or buy on demand.

Chalamet’s second outing is A Complete Unknown, in which he steps into the shoes of Bob Dylan, the Nobel Prize-winning folk legend. The actor spent five years perfecting his singing, harmonica, and guitar skills for the role, channeling Dylan’s lyrical genius and enigmatic presence. While it’s unclear whether his efforts will translate into awards glory, the film has already generated significant buzz. A Complete Unknown is now in cinemas.

Female-Led Films: From Gritty Drama to Horror

The awards race isn’t just about male-led epics; several female-centric films are also making waves. One of the most striking is Anora, a gritty drama about a sex worker from Brooklyn who marries into wealth. Described as Pretty Woman without the sugarcoating, the film stars newcomer Mikey Madison, who praised the sex work community for their support and camaraderie during filming. Anora is available to rent or buy on demand.

Another standout is I’m Still Here, a powerful Portuguese-language film based on a true story. Set in 1970s Brazil, it follows a mother of five who defies the country’s authoritarian regime after her husband is “disappeared.” With three Oscar nominations and a Golden Globe win for its star, Fernanda Torres, the film is a dark horse in the international category. I’m Still Here will be released in limited cinemas on February 21.

Finally, The Substance is a body horror film that has reignited Demi Moore’s career. Playing an aging actress who refuses to fade into obscurity, Moore delivers a chilling performance that has earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a musical or comedy, as well as a Critics’ Choice Award. With the buzz building, many believe she could take home the BAFTA and Oscar for Best Actress. The Substance is available to rent or buy on demand.

The Verdict: A Wide-Open Race

As the BAFTAs and Oscars approach, the competition is as fierce as it is unpredictable. With films as varied as Emilia Perez, Wicked, The Brutalist, and The Substance, there’s something for everyone in this year’s lineup. Whether you’re rooting for a musical masterpiece, a gripping drama, or a career-defining performance, one thing is certain: this awards season is going to be unforgettable. The BAFTAs will take place on February 16 at the Royal Festival Hall in London, while the Oscars will follow on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Let the best films win!