As we get deeper into the fall, the outlook of what films will be serious award-season contenders is becoming much clearer.
In the best picture category, Fox Searchlight’s Taika Waititi Nazi satire “Jojo Rabbit” has an edge coming off the coveted audience award win at the Toronto International Film Festival. But don’t count out Netflix, which continues its quest for a best picture win with two very different titles: Martin Scorsese’s gangster epic, “The Irishman,” and Noah Baumbach’s Adam Driver/Scarlett Johansson drama, “Marriage Story.” Indie distributor Neon will compete with its critically acclaimed Bong Joon-ho movie “Parasite.” And don’t forget Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood,” which is still a favorite though it’s been in theaters since late summer.
Meanwhile, on the acting side, Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of DC Comics’ biggest villain in Warner Bros.’ “Joker” is one of the favorites for best actor, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio for “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood” and Driver in “Marriage Story.”
For best actress, Johansson may be competing with herself thanks to her great performances in both “Jojo Rabbit” and “Marriage Story.” And Renée Zellweger is also wowing audiences playing Judy Garland in “Judy.”
Here are 18 Oscar contending movies that you shouldn’t miss in theaters: