2024 Oscars Predictions: Early Contenders for Best Original Screenplay

The anticipation for the 2024 Oscars is building as film enthusiasts and critics closely follow the early contenders for the coveted Best Original Screenplay category. In this article, we delve into the top five potential nominees, each offering a unique cinematic experience, and explore other noteworthy films vying for recognition. Ensure you are follow our 2024 Oscars Predictions as we head towards Oscars night.

The 5 Potential Nominees

1. Past Lives – Written by Celine Song

Celine Song’s debut film, “Past Lives,” weaves a captivating narrative about the enduring connection between childhood friends separated by borders and time. With impeccable storytelling and a focus on raw human emotions, this film is poised to earn a nomination, appealing to the Academy’s affinity for fresh narratives and compelling characters.

2. The Holdovers – Written by David Hemingson

David Hemmingsen presents “The Holdovers,” a touching drama set during Christmas at a college, where a dislikable teacher forms an unlikely bond. With stellar performances and powerful storytelling, this film could follow in the footsteps of “Manchester by the Sea,” earning recognition for both its actors and screenplay.

3. Anatomy of a Fall – Written by Arthur Harari and Justine Triet

In “Anatomy of a Fall,” a wife stands accused of murdering her husband, with their blind son as the sole witness. This courtroom drama relies heavily on dialogue, creating moments of intense, compelling storytelling that build to powerful crescendos.

4. May December – Written by Samy Burch and Alex Mechanik

“May December” explores the complexities of an actress’s stay with an infamous couple for research. As themes and subtext intertwine, this film boasts compelling characters and powerful performances that bolster its immaculate screenplay.

5. Barbie – By Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig

“Barbie,” a film that blurs the lines between original and adapted screenplay – will the academy feel strongly for this film despite the ‘adapted’ nature to it. With its box office success and clever, meta commentary, it’s poised to make waves at the Oscars. The question remains: can it secure a win, now that it is in the original screenplay category?

Other Contenders to Watch

Maestro – Written by Bradley Cooper and Josh Singer

“Maestro” delves into the life of Leonard Bernstein, a biopic drama. While adapting historical events can be challenging, early reviews indicate a strong contender, thanks to its compelling storytelling.

Saltburn – Written by Emerald Fennell

Emerald Fennell, the writer of “Promising Young Woman,” returns with “Saltburn.” While the early reception is divisive, the film’s unique blend of drama, thriller, and comedy could make it an intriguing dark horse in the race.

Air – Written by Alex Convery

Capturing the ’90s culture and NBA scene, “Air” combines nostalgia with a powerful monologue and strong performances, making it a contender to watch.

Rustin – Written by Julian Breece and Dustin Lance Black

“Rustin” explores the story of Beyonce Ruston, an advisor to Martin Luther King Jr., dedicated to racial equality and human rights. Early word is promising, fueled by a remarkable performance by Colman Domingo.

Asteroid City – Written by Wes Anderson and Roman Coppola

Wes Anderson, an Academy favorite with three nominations in the screenplay category, collaborates on “Asteroid City.” Despite being divisive, Anderson’s track record suggests it shouldn’t be ruled out.

The race for the 2024 Oscars – Best Original Screenplay category is heating up, with these films and more vying for recognition. Stay tuned as we continue to update our 2024 Oscars predictions and explore new contenders entering the conversation.

As we lead up to awards season, we will be regularly analyzing and predicting everything that comes our way. Be sure to head over to our Oscars page for all the latest news on our 2024 Oscars predictions (updated monthly), hot topics and analysis.

Subscribe to the MovieGainz Email Newsletter and never miss out on our Awards Season updates including predictions and analysis.