Oscar Winning Movies 2021: The Complete List

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the glitz and glamour of the 2021 Oscars? It was a night of unforgettable moments, groundbreaking wins, and some seriously stunning fashion. In this article, we’re going to break down all the Oscar-winning movies from 2021, giving you the lowdown on why they won and why you should totally check them out. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's get started!

The Big Winners of the Night

The 2021 Academy Awards were a bit different, thanks to the pandemic, but the show still went on with all the prestige and excitement we've come to expect. The ceremony took place at Union Station in Los Angeles, creating a unique and stylish backdrop for the honorees. Now, let's talk about the heavy hitters. Which films took home the most coveted awards? What made them stand out from the crowd? We’re about to find out!

Nomadland: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress

Nomadland was undoubtedly the star of the show. This poignant and beautifully shot film captured hearts and minds, earning it the Best Picture award. Directed by the incredibly talented Chloé Zhao, who also snagged the Best Director award, Nomadland tells the story of Fern, played by Frances McDormand, a woman who embarks on a journey through the American West as a modern-day nomad after losing everything in the Great Recession.

What made Nomadland so special? For starters, the film's authentic portrayal of life on the road resonated deeply with audiences. Zhao's direction is subtle yet powerful, allowing the real-life nomads who appear in the film to shine. McDormand's performance is nothing short of masterful, conveying a sense of resilience and quiet strength that is truly inspiring. The film’s visual storytelling, with its breathtaking landscapes and intimate close-ups, creates an immersive experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. Winning Best Picture is a testament to the film's ability to connect with viewers on a profound emotional level, offering a glimpse into a subculture rarely seen on the big screen. If you haven't seen it yet, trust me, add it to your watchlist ASAP!

Soul: Best Animated Feature, Best Original Score

Pixar's Soul was another big winner, taking home the Best Animated Feature award. This heartwarming and thought-provoking film explores themes of life, death, and finding your purpose. With its stunning animation and soulful story, Soul is a must-watch for audiences of all ages. The film tells the story of Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher who dreams of becoming a professional jazz musician. An untimely accident sends him on a journey through the afterlife, where he must help a reluctant soul named 22 find her spark.

Soul's win for Best Animated Feature was well-deserved, thanks to its groundbreaking animation and deeply resonant themes. The film's depiction of the afterlife is visually stunning, with vibrant colors and imaginative landscapes. But what truly sets Soul apart is its exploration of existential questions. The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own lives and consider what truly matters. Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey deliver outstanding voice performances, bringing depth and humor to their characters. The film's soundtrack, composed by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, and Jon Batiste, is equally impressive, perfectly capturing the film's emotional tone. And let's not forget the Best Original Score win! The music is just phenomenal, adding so much depth and emotion to an already incredible film. Soul is a film that stays with you, prompting reflection and sparking joy.

The Father: Best Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay

The Father was a standout, earning Anthony Hopkins the Best Actor award for his stunning portrayal of a man struggling with dementia. The film also won Best Adapted Screenplay, thanks to its innovative and poignant storytelling. The Father offers a unique perspective on dementia, immersing the audience in the protagonist's fragmented and disoriented experience. The film follows Anthony, an aging man who refuses assistance from his daughter Anne as he gradually loses his grip on reality.

Hopkins' performance in The Father is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the confusion, frustration, and vulnerability of a man battling dementia. The film's narrative structure is deliberately disorienting, mirroring Anthony's own experience and creating a deeply unsettling viewing experience. Olivia Colman delivers a powerful supporting performance as Anne, conveying the heartbreak and helplessness of a daughter watching her father decline. The film's screenplay, adapted from Florian Zeller's play, is a masterclass in dramatic tension, gradually ratcheting up the suspense as Anthony's world unravels. The Father is a powerful and moving film that sheds light on a difficult subject with empathy and intelligence. It’s a film that stays with you, prompting reflection on the complexities of aging and the importance of human connection.

Other Notable Wins

While Nomadland, Soul, and The Father took home some of the biggest awards, there were plenty of other deserving winners. Let's take a look at some of the other films that were recognized at the 2021 Oscars.

Judas and the Black Messiah: Best Supporting Actor

Daniel Kaluuya won Best Supporting Actor for his electrifying performance as Fred Hampton in Judas and the Black Messiah. This powerful and timely film tells the story of Black Panther Party chairman Fred Hampton and William O'Neal, the FBI informant who betrayed him. Kaluuya's portrayal of Hampton is charismatic and commanding, capturing the revolutionary spirit and powerful oratory of the iconic leader. The film is a gripping and important exploration of race, power, and betrayal in America.

Promising Young Woman: Best Original Screenplay

Emerald Fennell won Best Original Screenplay for Promising Young Woman, a darkly comic and provocative thriller that tackles themes of consent and revenge. The film follows Cassie, a young woman who seeks to avenge the death of her best friend by feigning intoxication and confronting predatory men. Fennell's screenplay is sharp, witty, and unafraid to push boundaries, making Promising Young Woman one of the most talked-about films of the year.

Another Round: Best International Feature Film

Thomas Vinterberg's Another Round won Best International Feature Film. This Danish film explores the effects of alcohol on a group of middle-aged teachers who embark on an experiment to maintain a constant level of intoxication throughout the day. The film is a nuanced and thought-provoking examination of friendship, aging, and the human condition.

Mank: Best Cinematography

Mank, a black-and-white biographical drama about screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz and his work on Citizen Kane, won Best Cinematography. The film's stunning visuals, reminiscent of classic Hollywood cinema, are a testament to Erik Messerschmidt's artistry.

Why These Films Won

So, what made these films stand out from the competition? What qualities did they possess that resonated with the Academy voters? Here are a few key factors:

• Compelling Storytelling: Each of these films told a story that was both engaging and meaningful, exploring complex themes and characters in a way that captivated audiences.
• Outstanding Performances: The actors in these films delivered unforgettable performances, bringing depth, nuance, and authenticity to their roles.
• Innovative Direction: The directors of these films demonstrated a clear vision and innovative approach, pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
• Technical Excellence: From cinematography to editing to sound design, these films showcased the highest levels of technical achievement.

Where to Watch These Oscar Winners

Now that you know which films won big at the 2021 Oscars, you're probably wondering where you can watch them. Here's a quick guide:

• Nomadland: Streaming on Hulu
• Soul: Streaming on Disney+
• The Father: Available for rent or purchase on various streaming platforms
• Judas and the Black Messiah: Available for rent or purchase on various streaming platforms
• Promising Young Woman: Available for rent or purchase on various streaming platforms
• Another Round: Streaming on Hulu
• Mank: Streaming on Netflix

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Oscars were a celebration of cinematic excellence, honoring films that pushed boundaries, challenged perspectives, and touched our hearts. From the sweeping landscapes of Nomadland to the soulful animation of Soul, these films represent the best of what cinema has to offer. So, if you're looking for some great movies to watch, be sure to check out these Oscar winners. You won't be disappointed!

So there you have it, guys! A complete rundown of the Oscar-winning movies from 2021. Hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the best of the best. Happy watching!