Oscar Best Picture Nominees 2019: Ranked & Reviewed

Hey guys! Let's dive into the amazing world of the 2019 Oscar Best Picture nominees. It was a stellar year for film, and these movies truly stood out. We’re going to break down each nominee, giving you a comprehensive review and ranking them to help you decide which ones are worth your time. Whether you're a film buff or just looking for a great movie to watch, this guide is for you!

A Deep Dive into the Nominees

1. Green Book

Green Book tells the story of Tony Lip, an Italian-American bouncer, who takes a job driving Don Shirley, a Black classical pianist, on a tour through the Deep South in 1962. This movie beautifully explores themes of race, class, and the unlikely friendship that blossoms between two very different men. The performances by Viggo Mortensen as Tony Lip and Mahershala Ali as Don Shirley are nothing short of phenomenal. Mortensen's portrayal of the street-smart, often prejudiced, Tony is both humorous and heartwarming, while Ali delivers a nuanced and dignified performance as the refined and isolated Don Shirley.

The film's narrative structure follows the classic road-trip formula, but it's the characters and their evolving relationship that truly captivate the audience. As they navigate the challenges and prejudices of the Jim Crow South, Tony and Don learn to understand and appreciate each other's perspectives. The dialogue is sharp and witty, often providing moments of levity amidst the heavier themes. Green Book doesn't shy away from addressing the racial tensions of the time, but it does so with a gentleness that some critics found to be overly simplistic. However, the film's heartwarming message of unity and acceptance resonated with many viewers, contributing to its widespread appeal and ultimately its Best Picture win. The cinematography perfectly captures the essence of the era, from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of the South. The costumes and set design further immerse the audience in the 1960s, adding to the film's authenticity. Overall, Green Book is a compelling and thought-provoking film that explores important themes with humor and heart.

2. Roma

Alfonso Cuarón's Roma is a stunning black-and-white film that offers a semi-autobiographical glimpse into the director's childhood in 1970s Mexico City. The film centers around Cleo, a young domestic worker of indigenous descent, who works for a middle-class family. Roma is a cinematic masterpiece, celebrated for its breathtaking visuals, poignant storytelling, and authentic portrayal of Mexican culture. Cuarón's direction is masterful, using long takes and sweeping camera movements to create a sense of immersion and intimacy. The black-and-white cinematography adds a timeless quality to the film, enhancing its emotional impact.

The film beautifully captures the daily lives and struggles of Cleo and the family she serves. As Cleo navigates her own personal challenges, including an unexpected pregnancy, she becomes an integral part of the family, offering love, support, and unwavering loyalty. The film explores themes of class, race, and gender with sensitivity and nuance. Yalitza Aparicio, in her debut role as Cleo, delivers a powerful and understated performance that earned her widespread acclaim. The film's narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the world and the characters. Cuarón's attention to detail is evident in every frame, from the meticulously recreated sets to the authentic dialogue. Roma is more than just a film; it's an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. The film's emotional depth and visual artistry make it a true cinematic achievement.

3. Bohemian Rhapsody

Bohemian Rhapsody is a biographical drama about the legendary Freddie Mercury and the iconic rock band Queen. The film chronicles Queen's rise to fame, from their early days in London to their triumphant performance at Live Aid in 1985. Rami Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury is absolutely captivating, earning him an Oscar for Best Actor. He perfectly embodies Mercury's charisma, energy, and vulnerability, delivering a performance that is both electrifying and deeply moving.

The film's soundtrack is, of course, filled with Queen's greatest hits, providing a thrilling and nostalgic experience for fans. The concert scenes are particularly well-done, recreating the energy and excitement of Queen's live performances. While the film takes some liberties with the timeline and historical accuracy, it captures the essence of Queen's music and the spirit of Freddie Mercury. The supporting cast, including Gwilym Lee as Brian May, Ben Hardy as Roger Taylor, and Joseph Mazzello as John Deacon, also deliver strong performances. Bohemian Rhapsody is a crowd-pleasing film that celebrates the music and legacy of one of the greatest rock bands of all time. The film's success at the box office and at the Oscars is a testament to Queen's enduring popularity and the power of their music. It's a must-see for any Queen fan and a thoroughly enjoyable experience for anyone who loves music and a good story.

4. The Favourite

The Favourite is a wickedly funny and visually stunning period drama set in the court of Queen Anne in 18th-century England. The film tells the story of the power struggle between two cousins, Sarah Churchill and Abigail Masham, as they compete for the Queen's attention and favor. Olivia Colman delivers an extraordinary performance as Queen Anne, portraying her as a complex and often vulnerable ruler. Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone are equally brilliant as Sarah and Abigail, respectively, delivering sharp and witty performances that are both hilarious and heartbreaking.

The film's direction by Yorgos Lanthimos is unconventional and visually striking, using wide-angle lenses and unusual camera angles to create a sense of unease and disorientation. The costumes and set design are lavish and detailed, immersing the audience in the opulent world of the royal court. The Favourite is a dark and satirical comedy that explores themes of power, ambition, and betrayal. The dialogue is sharp and witty, filled with memorable lines and biting insults. The film's ending is ambiguous, leaving the audience to ponder the true nature of the characters and their relationships. It's a unique and unforgettable film that challenges conventions and rewards multiple viewings.

5. Black Panther

Black Panther made history as the first superhero film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. Set in the fictional African nation of Wakanda, the film tells the story of T'Challa, the newly crowned king, who must defend his nation from external threats and internal conflicts. Chadwick Boseman delivers a powerful and charismatic performance as T'Challa, embodying the strength, intelligence, and compassion of the Black Panther. The film's cast is diverse and talented, featuring standout performances from Michael B. Jordan as Erik Killmonger, Lupita Nyong'o as Nakia, and Danai Gurira as Okoye.

Black Panther is more than just a superhero film; it's a cultural phenomenon that celebrates Black culture and identity. The film's Afrofuturistic aesthetic is visually stunning, blending traditional African designs with futuristic technology. The soundtrack, curated by Kendrick Lamar, is equally impressive, featuring a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and African music. Black Panther explores themes of race, colonialism, and social justice with intelligence and nuance. The film's success at the box office and at the Oscars is a testament to its cultural impact and its appeal to a wide audience. It's a groundbreaking film that has paved the way for more diverse and inclusive representation in Hollywood.

6. BlacKkKlansman

Spike Lee's BlacKkKlansman is a provocative and timely film based on the true story of Ron Stallworth, a Black police officer who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan in the 1970s. John David Washington delivers a compelling performance as Ron Stallworth, portraying his intelligence, courage, and determination. Adam Driver is equally impressive as Flip Zimmerman, Stallworth's Jewish partner, who goes undercover to meet with the Klan members. The film blends humor and suspense to create a thrilling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

BlacKkKlansman is a powerful commentary on race relations in America, both then and now. The film draws parallels between the Klan's hateful rhetoric and the rise of white supremacy in contemporary society. Lee's direction is sharp and uncompromising, using archival footage and historical references to underscore the film's message. The film's ending is particularly impactful, featuring footage of the 2017 Charlottesville white supremacist rally. BlacKkKlansman is a must-see film that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about American history and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

7. Vice

Vice is a biographical comedy-drama that chronicles the rise of Dick Cheney to become the most powerful vice president in American history. Christian Bale undergoes a remarkable transformation to portray Dick Cheney, delivering a performance that is both chilling and darkly funny. Amy Adams is equally impressive as Lynne Cheney, portraying her ambition and influence on her husband's career. The film's direction by Adam McKay is satirical and irreverent, using unconventional narrative techniques to tell Cheney's story.

Vice is a controversial film that offers a critical perspective on Cheney's political legacy. The film accuses Cheney of manipulating the government and exploiting the War on Terror for personal gain. While some critics praised the film's boldness and satirical wit, others criticized its biased portrayal of Cheney and its lack of historical accuracy. Vice is a thought-provoking film that sparks debate and challenges viewers to question the nature of power and the role of government.

8. A Star Is Born

A Star Is Born is the fourth remake of the classic Hollywood story about a fading rock star who discovers and falls in love with a talented young singer. Bradley Cooper directs and stars in the film as Jackson Maine, delivering a raw and emotional performance. Lady Gaga is phenomenal as Ally, showcasing her incredible vocal talent and acting ability. The film's soundtrack is filled with original songs that are both catchy and emotionally resonant.

A Star Is Born is a romantic and tragic love story that explores themes of fame, addiction, and self-destruction. The film's chemistry between Cooper and Gaga is undeniable, creating a believable and heart-wrenching relationship. The film's musical performances are electrifying, capturing the energy and excitement of live concerts. A Star Is Born is a crowd-pleasing film that has resonated with audiences of all ages, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations. It's a must-see for fans of romance, music, and great acting.

Ranking the Nominees

Alright, guys, here’s my personal ranking of the 2019 Best Picture nominees, from my least favorite to my absolute favorite:

1. Vice
2. BlacKkKlansman
3. Bohemian Rhapsody
4. Black Panther
5. A Star Is Born
6. The Favourite
7. Green Book
8. Roma

Final Thoughts

The 2019 Oscar Best Picture nominees represented a diverse range of genres, stories, and perspectives. Each film offered something unique and memorable, making it a truly exceptional year for cinema. Whether you agree with my ranking or not, I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of each film and helped you discover some new favorites. Happy watching, everyone!