Hey guys! The 2021 Oscars were a wild ride, weren't they? As usual, the Best Picture category was the main event, filled with a diverse range of films that got everyone talking. From heartwarming dramas to thought-provoking narratives, there was something for everyone. So, let's dive into the nominees and break down what made each of them stand out. We'll rank them, chat about their strengths, and maybe even debate a little (because what's the fun if we don't, right?). Let’s get started!

The Nominees: A Quick Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty rankings, let’s quickly run through the nominees for the 2021 Oscars Best Picture:

• Nomadland: Chloé Zhao's poetic and poignant exploration of life on the road in America.
• The Trial of the Chicago 7: Aaron Sorkin's fast-paced, dialogue-heavy courtroom drama.
• Minari: Lee Isaac Chung's semi-autobiographical tale of a Korean-American family's pursuit of the American Dream.
• Promising Young Woman: Emerald Fennell's darkly comedic and fiercely feminist revenge thriller.
• Mank: David Fincher's visually stunning and sharply written biopic about Herman J. Mankiewicz.
• The Father: Florian Zeller's devastating and intimate portrayal of dementia.
• Judas and the Black Messiah: Shaka King's powerful and gripping historical drama about Fred Hampton.
• Sound of Metal: Darius Marder's immersive and visceral story of a heavy metal drummer losing his hearing.

Okay, now that we have our contenders, let’s get into the ranking! Remember, this is just one person's opinion, so feel free to disagree and share your own thoughts!

Ranking the 2021 Best Picture Nominees

8. Mank

David Fincher's Mank is undeniably a visual masterpiece, and it's hard not to appreciate the meticulous attention to detail that went into recreating the Golden Age of Hollywood. The black-and-white cinematography is stunning, and Gary Oldman delivers a compelling performance as Herman J. Mankiewicz. However, despite its technical achievements and strong performances, Mank struggles to fully captivate its audience due to its dense and somewhat inaccessible narrative. The film delves deep into the behind-the-scenes drama of Citizen Kane, which may only appeal to cinephiles and those well-versed in film history. For the average viewer, the intricate plot and numerous characters can be overwhelming, making it difficult to fully engage with the story. The film's pacing also contributes to its challenges. Mank often feels slow and meandering, lacking the urgency and momentum that would keep viewers invested. While the dialogue is sharp and witty, it can also be overly verbose, further slowing down the narrative. Ultimately, Mank is a film that is more admired for its technical prowess than enjoyed for its storytelling. It's a fascinating glimpse into Hollywood history, but its niche appeal and deliberate pacing make it the least accessible of the 2021 Best Picture nominees. It requires a certain level of prior knowledge and patience, which may deter many viewers. However, for those who appreciate the art of filmmaking and are willing to delve into the intricacies of Hollywood's past, Mank offers a rewarding, albeit challenging, experience. So, while it's not a film for everyone, it's still a noteworthy achievement in cinematic storytelling. The complex narrative and deliberate pacing, while strengths for some, ultimately limit its broader appeal.

7. The Trial of the Chicago 7

Aaron Sorkin's The Trial of the Chicago 7 is a classic Sorkin piece – full of rapid-fire dialogue, compelling characters, and a story ripped from the headlines. The film recounts the infamous trial of a group of anti-Vietnam War protesters charged with conspiracy and inciting to riot at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The ensemble cast is fantastic, with standout performances from Sacha Baron Cohen, Eddie Redmayne, and Jeremy Strong. Sorkin's signature writing style is on full display, delivering witty and engaging dialogue that keeps the audience hooked. However, the film sometimes sacrifices historical accuracy for dramatic effect. While it captures the essence of the events, it also simplifies complex issues and occasionally resorts to caricature. The film also suffers from a somewhat predictable narrative structure. While the courtroom drama is inherently compelling, The Trial of the Chicago 7 follows a familiar formula, lacking the originality and innovation of some of the other nominees. Despite its flaws, The Trial of the Chicago 7 is still a highly entertaining and thought-provoking film. It sheds light on an important moment in American history and raises relevant questions about free speech, protest, and government overreach. The film's energy and enthusiasm are infectious, making it a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in political dramas. The fast-paced dialogue and strong performances make it an engaging experience, even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of the other nominees. The film's commitment to telling an important story, even with its dramatic liberties, makes it a valuable contribution to the cinematic landscape. While it may not be the most groundbreaking film, it's a solid and engaging courtroom drama that will keep you entertained from start to finish. The movie truly captures the raw energy of the era, but the simplification of complex issues and predictable structure hold it back.

6. Promising Young Woman

Emerald Fennell's Promising Young Woman is a bold and provocative film that tackles the issue of sexual assault with a dark comedic twist. Carey Mulligan delivers a powerhouse performance as Cassie, a woman who seeks revenge on those who have wronged her and her best friend. The film's vibrant visuals, sharp writing, and unexpected plot twists make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. However, Promising Young Woman's unconventional approach may not appeal to everyone. The film's tone is often jarring, shifting from comedic to disturbing in a matter of seconds. This tonal dissonance can be unsettling and may alienate some viewers. Additionally, the film's ending is controversial, with some criticizing it for being unsatisfying or even harmful. Despite its flaws, Promising Young Woman is a film that sparks conversation and challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. It's a brave and original work that refuses to shy away from difficult topics. The film's unique style and Mulligan's performance make it a standout among the nominees. It is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and debate. The film's unflinching portrayal of trauma and revenge is both captivating and unsettling, making it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. It’s a film that takes risks and isn't afraid to push boundaries, even if it means polarizing audiences. It is a bold and provocative film with a dark comedic twist. The tonal dissonance and controversial ending may not appeal to everyone, but it sparks conversation and challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths.

5. Sound of Metal

Darius Marder's Sound of Metal is a deeply moving and immersive film about a heavy metal drummer, Ruben Stone (Riz Ahmed), who loses his hearing. Ahmed delivers an outstanding performance, conveying Ruben's fear, frustration, and eventual acceptance with remarkable authenticity. The film's sound design is particularly noteworthy, placing the audience inside Ruben's experience as he navigates the world with a profound hearing loss. Sound of Metal is a powerful exploration of identity, disability, and the search for meaning in life. However, the film's pacing can be slow at times, and its focus on Ruben's internal struggles may not appeal to viewers seeking a more plot-driven narrative. Additionally, the film's ending is somewhat ambiguous, leaving some questions unanswered. Despite its flaws, Sound of Metal is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking film. It offers a unique perspective on deafness and challenges viewers to reconsider their assumptions about disability. Ahmed's performance is nothing short of phenomenal, and the film's sound design is truly groundbreaking. The film's emotional resonance and powerful message make it a standout among the nominees. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and empathy. The film's ability to immerse the audience in Ruben's experience is truly remarkable. While the slow pacing and ambiguous ending may not appeal to everyone, it is still a deeply affecting and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on deafness and the search for meaning in life. The film’s sound design and Riz Ahmed's performance are truly outstanding.

4. The Father

Florian Zeller's The Father is a devastating and intimate portrayal of dementia, told from the perspective of the afflicted. Anthony Hopkins delivers a tour-de-force performance as Anthony, a man struggling with memory loss and confusion. The film's narrative structure is deliberately disorienting, mirroring Anthony's subjective experience and blurring the lines between reality and illusion. The Father is a profoundly unsettling and emotionally draining film, but it is also a deeply empathetic and insightful exploration of aging, illness, and the complexities of family relationships. However, the film's intense focus on Anthony's suffering may be too overwhelming for some viewers. The film's non-linear narrative can also be confusing at times, requiring close attention and patience. Despite its challenges, The Father is a remarkable achievement in filmmaking. Hopkins' performance is simply breathtaking, and the film's innovative narrative structure creates a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. The film's emotional impact is undeniable, leaving a lasting impression on viewers long after the credits roll. The film's ability to convey the confusion and disorientation of dementia is truly remarkable. While the intense focus on suffering and non-linear narrative may be challenging for some, it is a remarkable achievement in filmmaking, with Hopkins' performance being simply breathtaking. The film is a deeply empathetic and insightful exploration of aging, illness, and the complexities of family relationships. This film is an absolute gut-punch, guys. Be prepared!

3. Minari

Lee Isaac Chung's Minari is a heartwarming and deeply personal story about a Korean-American family's pursuit of the American Dream in rural Arkansas. The film is filled with charming performances, particularly from young Alan Kim and veteran actress Yuh-Jung Youn. Minari is a gentle and life-affirming film that celebrates the importance of family, resilience, and cultural heritage. However, the film's understated style and lack of dramatic conflict may not appeal to viewers seeking a more exciting or suspenseful narrative. Additionally, the film's themes of cultural identity and assimilation may not resonate with all audiences. Despite its flaws, Minari is a beautiful and moving film that offers a fresh perspective on the immigrant experience. The film's authenticity and heartfelt performances make it a standout among the nominees. It is a film that will warm your heart and leave you feeling hopeful. The film is a celebration of family, resilience, and cultural heritage, making it a truly heartwarming and life-affirming cinematic experience. While the understated style and lack of dramatic conflict may not appeal to everyone, it offers a fresh and authentic perspective on the immigrant experience. The film’s gentle storytelling and charming performances truly shine. It’s a movie that reminds you of the simple joys in life and the importance of sticking together.

2. Judas and the Black Messiah

Shaka King's Judas and the Black Messiah is a powerful and gripping historical drama about the betrayal of Black Panther leader Fred Hampton (Daniel Kaluuya) by FBI informant William O'Neal (Lakeith Stanfield). The film is filled with intense performances, sharp writing, and a palpable sense of urgency. Judas and the Black Messiah is a vital and timely film that sheds light on a crucial chapter in American history and raises important questions about race, power, and justice. However, the film's complex narrative and numerous characters may be challenging for some viewers. Additionally, the film's unflinching portrayal of violence and injustice may be disturbing for some audiences. Despite its flaws, Judas and the Black Messiah is a must-see film that will leave you shaken and inspired. Kaluuya and Stanfield deliver career-defining performances, and the film's historical accuracy and social relevance make it a truly important work of art. The film is a powerful reminder of the struggles for racial equality and the importance of standing up for what is right. The film’s intensity and unflinching portrayal of historical events are both captivating and disturbing. While the complex narrative and numerous characters may be challenging for some, it is an important and powerful film that sheds light on a crucial chapter in American history. The performances are unforgettable and the film’s message is both timely and timeless. The weight of the story is palpable.

1. Nomadland

Chloé Zhao's Nomadland is a poetic and profound exploration of life on the road in America, following Fern (Frances McDormand), a woman who embarks on a journey through the American West after losing everything in the Great Recession. The film is filled with stunning visuals, naturalistic performances, and a deep sense of empathy. Nomadland is a beautiful and moving film that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the search for connection in a fractured world. While some found it uneventful, Nomadland paints a portrait of a subculture rarely seen with such nuance. Nomadland isn’t just a movie; it’s an experience. The vast landscapes, the quiet moments of reflection, and the genuine connections between characters create a sense of intimacy and authenticity that is rarely seen in modern cinema. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting you to question your own values and priorities. McDormand's performance is a masterclass in understated acting, and Zhao's direction is both sensitive and assured. It's a film that finds beauty in the mundane and celebrates the human spirit in the face of adversity. The way the film captures the essence of the nomadic lifestyle is truly remarkable. It’s a film that reminds you of the importance of community and the power of human connection. It also resonates deeply with contemporary issues such as economic hardship and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. It's a film that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the universal human experience. It’s a masterpiece of modern cinema and definitely deserved the Best Picture win!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! My ranking of the 2021 Oscars Best Picture nominees. It was a truly remarkable year for film, with a diverse range of stories and perspectives represented. Whether you agree with my rankings or not, I hope this article has inspired you to check out some of these films and form your own opinions. Happy watching!