Eye of the Tiger’s A&E Staff reviews this year’s Best Picture Nominees and lays out general
expectations for which films deserve the ever coveted Academy Award.

Black Panther

REVIEW BY OWEN YOUNG

 
 
One of the more recent movies in the Marvel cinematic universe, Black Panther not only provided a beautiful story line executed perfectly, but followed up with amazing visual effects absolutely stunning to the eye.
Black Panther was also a cornerstone in the African American community. It was one of the first times audiences saw a black superhero lead on the big screen, and it was a beautiful example of cultural diversity.
The movie delivered stunning graphics, an amazing plot line, out of this world visual effects, and left a major positive impact in the black community which should secure Black Panther’s spot as best picture.
 
 

BlackKklansman

REVIEW BY JACKSON YOUNG

Spike Lee’s newest joint BlackKklansman was nominated for Best Picture and it is definitely deserving of it.
The movie blends a bit of humor in perfectly, which is surprising as the book the film is based on was not at all humorous. Still, Spike Lee does this masterfully. Even though he usually doesn’t have the most hilarious movies, this one was designed flawlessly.
While BlackKklansman didn’t get the notoriety at its release like other Best Picture nominees did, it still doesn’t undermine the greatness of this movie.
Spike Lee was also nominated for Best Director for this film as well.
 
 

Bohemian Rhapsody

REVIEW BY JOEY FREID

Bohemian Rhapsody is the biopic of Freddie Mercury and the band Queen, one of the most famous music groups of all time.
This movie explores Mercury’s background and goes into an in depth timeline of his chaotic life consisting of sex, drugs and parties and the struggle to find a sense of belonging.
This roller coaster film ends with the iconic live aid performance shortly before Freddie’s death, signifying one of the most well told stories of the year.
Easily making it a top contender to win an Oscar, especially with Rami Malek and his spot on impersonation of Mercury.
 
 

 The Favourite

REVIEW BY AJ WELKER

The Favourite boasts a comedic edge as it delves into the complications of sexual politics, especially in the dysfunction of Queen Anne’s castle.
Colman, Weisz, and Stone deliver compelling performances that emphasize the trials and tribulations they force each other to go through in order to determine who, in actuality, is the favorite.
The historical elements of the film are exemplary, and the ensemble highlights the defective manner in which Queen Anne rules. Though the film is graphic, unexpected, and crass, the message of power and politics is expertly delivered, ensuring that this film deserves a Best Picture win.
 
 

Green Book

REVIEW BY JOEY FREID

Green Book is a feel-good, heartwarming story about a poor Italian man who gets hired to chaperone a rich black musician, Dr. Shirly, into the deep south during the early 60s.
The film follows the problems the two run into on their trip to get Dr. Shirly to all of his concerts before Christmas.
The movie adds a layer of humor to a rather serious subject matter, as well as explores the extremely entertaining dynamic between the two main characters.
The film was initially met with some controversy about the overall position race plays in the film, making it a bold pick for the Academy.
Despite the dispute surrounding this nomination, the film definitely deserves the Oscar due to its inspiring story.

ROMA

REVIEW BY JOEY FREID

ROMA, the first foreign language film nominated for Best Picture since 2012 features a unique and different storyline than other nominees.
The story follows Cleo, and the extraordinary aspects of her unextraordinary day to day life.
Though the film is incredibly touching, this is not what makes the film different from the others: ROMA is easily the best shot and features more cinemagraphic excellence than any of its competitors.
The cinematography is reminiscent of Alfonso Cuaron’s other movies, giving the film the look and tone Cuaron is famous for.
ROMA deserves an Oscar due to the film’s unique nature that makes it stand out amongst the other nominees this year.

A Star Is Born

REVIEW BY ALEX MULLAN

A Star Is Born follows rockstar Jackson Maine and up and coming star Ally, focusing on his slow fall from the spotlight as his girlfriend rockets to fame.
Bradley Cooper depicts an accurate rockstar as Maine struggles with alcoholism, drug addiction, and the crippling realization that he’s a shell of what he once was.
Lady Gaga’s character Ally attempts to start her own career, while struggling with her rocky relationship.
This film is a sad, emotional rollercoaster that really connects with its audience and evokes empathy.
The chemistry between Cooper and Lady Gaga sparks perfectly with a well written plot, making it an obvious contender to win Best Picture.

Vice

REVIEW BY CAM MEDRANO

In a clumsy display of Dick Cheney’s role in American politics, Vice contributes a unique spin on typical political dramas that flood contemporary entertainment.
While the film itself is rather informal and comedic, it offers an amusing perspective and grants levity to heavier topics.
Yet, with a script lacking in depth and wit and unnecessary scenes, it’s difficult to look past poor casting decisions and a scrambled plotline that seems to never connect.
When watching Vice, it seems as if you’re waiting for the punchline that never comes.
Though the film itself is undeserving of its’ several Oscar nominations, its ambition sets a new standard for future films to match.