2024 Oscar Predictions: Early Contenders for Best Sound

The 2024 Oscars are fast approaching, and one category that always captivates movie lovers is Best Sound. This year, the Academy has combined Best Sound Editing and Best Sound Mixing into a single category, making it even more exciting to predict the nominees. In this article, we’ll explore the top five films that are likely to be nominated for Best Sound and mention some dark horse candidates to watch out for.

Top Contenders for Best Sound

1. Oppenheimer

Director Christopher Nolan is renowned for his exceptional use of sound in his films. With Oppenheimer, the sound is expansive, especially during the Trinity test explosion. The film’s mix of subatomic particles, black holes, and natural phenomena creates a powerful soundscape that complements its heavy reliance on dialogue.

2. Maestro

Maestro, based on Leonard Bernstein’s life and directed by Bradley Cooper, promises a captivating balance between music and character. The legendary conductor and composer’s story is set to shine, and the film’s sound designer, a nominee for previous projects like La La Land and A Star Is Born, is likely to make this film a top contender.

3. Ferrari

Directed by Michael Mann, Ferrari delves into the world of fast cars and racing, reminiscent of Ford v Ferrari, which won Best Sound Editing. The film’s sound quality has generated considerable buzz, and its sound mixer, Andy Nelson, known for his work on La La Land and The Batman, is expected to receive another nomination.

4. Killers of the Flower Moon

Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon is set in 1920s Oklahoma and explores serial murders within the Osage Nation. The film’s soundscape brilliantly contrasts beauty and destruction, immersing the audience in the story.

5. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

The Spider-Man franchise continues to excel in sound design. Across the Spider-Verse offers a dynamic mix that aligns with the unique themes of the multiverse’s characters. The film’s audio intricacies are expected to secure a nomination.

Dark Horse Contenders to Look For:

While the above five films are strong contenders, the Oscars always have room for surprises. Here are some dark horse candidates with the potential to secure a nomination:

• The Zone of Interest: Set against the backdrop of the Holocaust and Auschwitz, this film relies on a unique soundscape to convey the horrors of the concentration camp. Described as audacious, it could emerge as an unexpected nominee.

• The Creator: The Creator explores a futuristic war between humanity and AI, offering a grand yet intimate soundscape. Its unique sound elements in a Southeast Asian setting make it a contender.

• Napoleon: This film traces Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to power through six different battles. The emphasis on sound editing within these battles could earn it a nomination.

• The Color Purple: A musical with potential for strong sound mixing, The Color Purple may find a spot on the nominations list.

• The Killer: An existential crisis of an assassin, set in a film noir vibe, The Killer may impress with its sound editing and mixing, depending on the intensity of the action.

As the Oscar season unfolds, films generate buzz, and critics share their insights, the landscape of contenders may change. Stay tuned for updates as we approach the 2024 Oscars, but for now, these films stand out as the top contenders in the Best Sound category. We’ll be tracking journey through film festivals, precursor awards, and the ultimate race towards the 2024 Oscars. The competition for Best Sound promises to be fierce, and only time will reveal which film will emerge as the winner.

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 Oscar 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.