The Substance to Gladiator II: The 10 films getting the biggest early Oscar buzz

As the awards season heats up, several films are already generating significant buzz for their potential Oscar nominations. From a body-horror comeback for Demi Moore to Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II sequel, these ten films are making waves and drawing early attention from critics and audiences alike.

Conclave

While its plot might not seem like typical Oscar fare, Conclave blends thriller elements with artistic merit, making it a serious contender this year. The story follows a group of cardinals as they secretly navigate political machinations to elect a new pope. Directed by Edward Berger, whose All Quiet on the Western Front (2022) won four Oscars, the film features Ralph Fiennes in a captivating performance as a cardinal struggling with his faith. Early reviews suggest that Conclave has strong potential for a Best Picture nomination, with Fiennes a likely Best Actor contender. Berger could also be in the race for Best Director, with Stanley Tucci possibly earning a Supporting Actor nod.

Nickel Boys
Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead, Nickel Boys explores the harrowing experiences of two teenagers subjected to horrific abuse at a reform school in 1960s Florida. What sets the film apart is RaMell Ross’s groundbreaking cinematography, which immerses viewers in the characters’ perspective. This innovative technique has made Nickel Boys a frontrunner for Best Cinematography and Best Editing. With its weighty subject matter, the film is also likely to be recognized in the Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay categories.

Emilia Pérez

Emilia Pérez is one of the most unique films of the year, combining elements of crime drama, musical, and family saga. The story follows a transgender Mexican crime lord who fakes her death and hides her new identity from her family. Directed by Jacques Audiard, this colorful, vibrant film has already earned praise for its emotional depth and boldness. It’s a strong contender for Best International Film and could even make a splash in Best Picture. Karla Sofía Gascón, who plays Emilia, is expected to earn a Best Actress nomination, potentially making history as the first transgender nominee in that category. Zoe Saldaña’s supporting role as Emilia’s lawyer could also bring her a nomination.

Gladiator II
The excitement for Gladiator II is palpable, especially following the release of its action-packed trailer. Ridley Scott returns to direct the sequel to his 2000 epic, Gladiator, which won the Best Picture Oscar. The star-studded cast, including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington, has fueled speculation that the film could dominate the technical categories, including Production Design and Cinematography. Washington’s fierce performance, especially his iconic line, “I must have POWER,” makes him a likely contender for Best Supporting Actor. However, Scott’s place in the Best Director race is not guaranteed, despite his impressive resume. If Gladiator II maintains its momentum, it could earn a Best Picture nomination.

The Brutalist

The Brutalist is a period drama that has emerged as an unexpected Oscar contender. Directed by Brady Corbet, the film tells the story of a Hungarian-Jewish architect who is hired to build a vast cultural center in post-WWII America. Starring Adrien Brody in a role that could earn him a second Oscar, The Brutalist is already being considered for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. With its ambitious themes and expansive narrative, the film could also make waves in the Best Director race.

Anora
Sean Baker’s Anora follows a stripper who is thrust into a world of extreme wealth by a Russian oligarch’s son. It’s a fast-paced, bold film that dives deep into social inequality. After winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes, Anora is now a serious contender for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. Mikey Madison’s portrayal of the protagonist is generating significant buzz, and if she’s not nominated for Best Actress, it will be seen as a major snub.

A Real Pain
This poignant drama, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, stars Kieran Culkin and Jesse Eisenberg as cousins who travel to Poland to visit their grandmother’s hometown. Culkin, who plays the more outgoing of the two cousins, has received early praise for his supporting role, making him a strong contender for a nomination. The film’s exploration of Jewish heritage and family dynamics also positions it for Best Picture and Original Screenplay nominations.

The Room Next Door

Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door won the top prize at the Venice Film Festival, and it’s expected to be a major player this awards season. Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore star in this emotionally charged film about a terminally ill woman and her friend. Almodóvar’s first English-language film has already earned critical acclaim, with the potential for multiple nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and acting nods for both Swinton and Moore.

The Substance
In The Substance, Demi Moore makes a bold return to the screen in a high-concept satire about a former movie star who creates a younger clone of herself to reclaim her fading career. Moore’s performance has earned early praise, and her work in this brave, self-parodying role could lead to a Best Actress nomination. The film’s satirical edge, which pokes fun at Hollywood, positions it as a potential Best Picture contender.

A Complete Unknown

Biopics often draw Oscar attention, and A Complete Unknown is no exception. Timothée Chalamet stars as Bob Dylan in this fictionalized portrayal of his early years. Directed by James Mangold, whose Walk the Line (2005) earned Reese Witherspoon an Oscar, this film has the potential to score nominations for Chalamet in Best Actor, as well as Best Picture and Best Director.

As the race for the Oscars intensifies, these films are leading the charge with unique narratives, standout performances, and directorial achievements. Their early buzz positions them as serious contenders for this year’s biggest awards.