Home » 2024 Oscar Predictions: Early Contenders for Best Picture

2024 Oscar Predictions: Early Contenders for Best Picture

As the film industry gears up for another thrilling awards season, cinephiles and industry experts alike are already abuzz with early 2024 Oscar predictions. While the true contenders will emerge in the coming months as the fall film festival circuit unfolds, we can’t help but speculate on the potential frontrunners for the coveted Best Picture category. From historical epics to thought-provoking dramas and captivating blockbusters, the 2024 Oscars promise a diverse range of films vying for the top honours.

Our Best Picture Predictions for 2024:

1. Oppenheimer – Directed by Christopher Nolan

1. Oppenheimer - Directed by Christopher Nolan

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer has been generating a significant amount of buzz among critics and audiences alike. This film marks a departure from Nolan’s previous works, boasting a compelling narrative, strong acting performances, and an intricate screenplay. With its focus on historical events and remarkable characters, Oppenheimer is positioned to make a splash at the Oscars. While it’s still early to predict a win, the film’s presence and critical acclaim make it a strong contender for the Best Picture nomination.

2. Killers of the Flower Moon – Directed by Martin Scorsese

2. Killers of the Flower Moon - Directed by Martin Scorsese

When you have Martin Scorsese at the helm and a star-studded cast featuring Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio, success is almost a given. Killers of the Flower Moon has garnered positive reviews, particularly from its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. Scorsese’s cinematic prowess and the film’s engaging storyline make it a potential frontrunner in the Best Picture category. With a legacy of nominations and wins, Scorsese’s film could emerge as a formidable competitor.

3. The Color Purple – Directed by Blitz Bazawule

4. The Color Purple - Directed by Blitz Bazawule

A remake of the 1985 classic, The Color Purple is a project that has caught the Academy’s attention. With a record of 11 nominations without a single win in its original iteration, this new adaptation aims to capture the hearts of both critics and viewers. The performances and artistic direction will likely be scrutinized, and if executed well, The Color Purple could secure a coveted Best Picture nomination.

4. Holdovers – Directed by Alexander Payne

5. Holdovers - Directed by Alexander Payne

Alexander Payne returns with Holdovers, a film that combines comedy and drama in a way that often appeals to the Academy. With a compelling plot and standout performances, particularly from Paul Giamatti, this movie is shaping up to be a contender in the Best Picture race.

5. Past Lives – Directed by Celine Song

6. Past Lives - Directed by Celine Song

Past Lives has already garnered attention with its strong reviews and impressive debut at film festivals. Celine Song’s directorial debut, coupled with exceptional performances, places this film on the radar for a potential Best Picture nomination.

6. Saltburn – Directed by Emerald Fennell

7. Saltburn - Directed by Emerald Fennell

Emerald Fennell, known for her success with Promising Young Woman, returns with “Saltburn.” Featuring a stellar cast, including Rosamund Pike and Carey Mulligan, this film is expected to receive recognition in multiple categories, including Best Picture.

7. May December – Directed by Todd Haynes

8. May December - Directed by Todd Haynes

While Todd Haynes’ recent projects haven’t made a significant impact on the awards circuit, May December is generating positive reviews and boasts strong performances by Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore. If the film maintains its momentum, the Best Picture nomination is within reach.

8. Barbie – Directed by Greta Gerwig

9. Barbie - Directed by Greta Gerwig

One unexpected contender that has caught the industry’s attention is Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig. The film’s premise, which reimagines the iconic doll as a symbol of empowerment and self-discovery, has intrigued both critics and audiences. With Gerwig’s track record of delivering thought-provoking narratives and strong performances, “Barbie” could be a dark horse in the Best Picture race.

9. Poor Things – Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos

Yorgos Lanthimos continues to get impossibly better with every film. Poor Things offers an eccentric and unorthodox selection for the Academy to really buy into. However, it is impossible to ignore the enormous praise the film is currently receiving. Backed by a strong cast led by Emma Stone, the film could mark another Lanthimos film into the Oscars spotlight.

10. The Zone of Interest – Directed by Jonathan Glazer

The Zone of Interest, a creation by Jonathan Glazer, fearlessly explores the complex backdrop of World War II and Nazi history. With its uncompromising narrative and daring concepts, the film has received substantial recognition. “The Zone of Interest” emerges as a potential unexpected contender for the Best Picture win.

Other Titles in the Race:

As the 2024 Oscars season unfolds, these early predictions offer a glimpse into the diverse and competitive landscape of the Best Picture category. While these films show promise, the fall film festival circuit will undoubtedly reveal more contenders, shaping the race for one of the industry’s most prestigious accolades. Stay tuned for our 2024 Oscar predictions for all categories as the awards season progresses.

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

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