The Oscars seem to be a dying phenomenon these days. Year after year, it feels like whatever people are in that controversial academy get together in a room and say, “What depressing drama that no one knows, starring the same actors that everyone knows too well, can we shine the light on this time?” Sorry, Amy Adams. But if we see you on that red carpet one.more.time!
Though it’s still too early to tell what contenders will receive nods this year, there are plenty films in the running. And a handful of them even look exciting; dare I say, upbeat. Here are five upcoming Oscar season films you’ll actually want to get off your couch, and get to the theaters to see.1. “La La Land”
First of all, Ryan Gosling in a blue suit, at a piano? You had me at hello. Secondly, “La La Land” promises to be the best big screen musical since 2012’s “Les Miserables.” Starring Gosling and Emma Stone, who previously played opposite each other in both “Crazy, Stupid, Love” and “Gangster Squad,” the comedy-drama centers around a young couple trying to make it in Hollywood’s entertainment industry, while also maintaining a healthy relationship. Full of whimsy, color and tenderness, “La La Land” looks like it’s going to be one of few films this year to forge a new path and think outside the box.
2. “Collateral Beauty”
Okay, Will Smith has kind of been THROUGH IT this past year with that whole Oscar snub fiasco back in February. While Smith is a two-time Oscar nominated actor, he couldn’t clench a Best Actor nod for his work in 2015’s “Concussion,” which didn’t exactly go down well with his wife Jada.
But “Collateral Beauty” seems like a pretty endearing departure from Smith’s heavier stuff. Smith plays a struggling advertising executive who starts coping with loss by writing letters to “things:” Love, Time and Death. Weirdly enough, those same existential concepts come to him as human beings to respond to his letters. If you love “It’s a Wonderful Life,” (and who doesn’t?), you’ll probably love this film as well; perfect for the holidays!3. “Moana”
Disney can do absolutely no wrong. Except for “Oz the Great and Powerful.” That was bad. But other than that, those people really know what they’re doing. Our Polynesian heroine is a 16-year-old tribal princess named Moana, who teams up with a demigod, voiced by Dwayne Johnson, in order to find a mysterious (and possibly non-existent) island. Featuring songs co-written by “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, this movie is going to be TOO. BOMB. The music, the hair, the ocean, The Rock?! Count us in.
4. "Fences"
YAAAAAAAAAS, Viola Davis! She’s in the trailer for like, 20 seconds and already she’s stealing the show. The renowned actress and Oscar winner Denzel Washington will reprise their roles in August Wilson’s play “Fences” as Rose and Troy Maxson, an emotionally broken couple doing everything to make ends meet in their household. While many have seen “Fences” performed on Broadway for decades now, it’ll be pretty amazing to see it brought to life on film through two awesome A-listers.
5. "Bleed For This"
What do black leggings, Jennifer Lopez and boxing movies have in common? They never get old. There have been so many boxing movies out as of late; namely, “Creed,” the “Rocky” reboot starring Michael B. Jordan. “Bleed For This” is a film we can all get behind, as it follows the story of real life boxer Vinny Pazienza, a successful athlete who works his way back into the ring after surviving a fatal car accident. Miles Teller is a star on the rise, and this film seems to be yet another great movie on his resume.
Alright, so maybe the Oscars are on their way out of America’s good graces. But with some films like these in the mix, don’t you think the iconic awards show is maybe worth a second, third, (okay, fifth) chance?
