Last week was a huge week for a lot of films, with so many of the best of 2021 being nominated for Academy Awards. The issue with the Awards rules, as presently constituted, is that a majority of the films don’t need to be in full release at the time of nomination, leaving most of us hanging in the balance as they negotiate later release dates. Well, thankfully most films will be released this month in advance of the annual telecast, giving the masses a chance to view them. Below are a few that definitely deserve your attention, including the stories of a rancher, a living legend, a sea monster, an aspiring singer, a prison uprising, and a knock on the door that goes wrong.
Leave a comment below with films you want to see before Hollywood’s Biggest Night.
Attica
Nomination: Documentary (Feature)
Synopsis: The documentary is a harrowing, infuriating look at racism and the abuse of power by people who see others as inhuman. Its subject is the riot that began at Attica Correctional Facility on September 9, 1971. Over 30 prison staff members were taken hostage in the largest prison uprising in American history. Once they temporarily gained the upper hand, the prisoners at Attica—mostly Black and Latino but also White—tried to negotiate for better conditions. (rogerebert.com)
The Long Goodbye
Nomination: Short Film (Live Action)
Synopsis: The short film depicts a South Asian family in suburban London — in the distant future, or perhaps chillingly in the present — as they prepare for a celebration. But what begins as a lighthearted look at a close-knit family gathering quickly turns sinister as news reports begin depicting scenes of violence and an all-white militia, aided by the police force, knocks on the family’s door.
CODA
Nominations: Best Picture, Actor in a Supporting Role, Writing (Adapted Screenplay)
Synopsis: In Gloucester, Massachusetts, Ruby Rossi is the only hearing member of her family; her parents Frank and Jackie and older brother Leo are all culturally Deaf. She assists with the family fishing business and plans to join it full-time after finishing high school.
Luca
Nomination: Animated Feature Film
Synopsis: Set on the Italian Riviera, the film centers on Luca Paguro, a young sea monster boy with the ability to assume human form while on land, who explores the town of Portorosso with his new best friend, Alberto Scorfano, experiencing a life-changing summer adventure.
The Power of the Dog
Nominations: Best Picture, Actor in a Leading Role, Actor in a Supporting Role, Actress in a Supporting Role, Cinematography, Directing, Film Editing, Music (Original Score), Production Design, Sound, Writing (Adapted Screenplay)
Synopsis: Charismatic rancher Phil Burbank inspires fear and awe in those around him. When his brother brings home a new wife and her son, Phil torments them until he finds himself exposed to the possibility of love.
The Queen of Basketball
Nomination: Documentary (Short Subject)
Synopsis: She is one of the greatest living women’s basketball players. Three national trophies. Scored the first basket in women’s Olympic basketball at the 1976 Olympics. Drafted to the NBA. But have you ever heard of Lucy Harris?
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