Delving into the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture, this year’s nominees offer a glimpse into the evolution of filmmaking, as industry professionals push the boundaries of storytelling, technology, and representation. Behind the scenes, the nominated films share a complex history of creative vision, financial strategies, and cultural significance that have captivated audiences worldwide.
The nominees this year comprise a diverse range of films that not only showcase exceptional direction, acting, and cinematography but have also been impacted by major historical events and technological advancements in the film industry. From the budgetary constraints that filmmakers had to overcome to the innovative ways in which they utilized new technologies and storytelling techniques, each film is a testament to the ever-changing landscape of the film industry.
The 89th Academy Awards Best Picture Nominations and Snubs Explained in Detail
The 89th Academy Awards, held on February 26, 2017, marked a pivotal moment in the cinematic landscape. With 14 nominations for Best Picture, the competition was fierce, and the snubs were just as intriguing. The nominations for Best Picture were announced on January 24, 2017, and the winners were revealed during the ceremony.The nominated films spanned a range of genres, from historical drama to animated adventures.
Each film had its unique qualities and challenges, and the directors and actors behind them brought their passion and dedication to the craft. The nominations committee, comprising over 700 Academy members, carefully considered each film’s merit, evaluating factors such as cinematography, editing, and sound design.
Nomination Criteria, 89th academy awards best picture
The nominations for Best Picture are selected based on the eligibility criteria set by the Academy. Films must meet specific requirements, including release dates, runtime, and language. The nominations committee evaluates each film’s technical and artistic merits, considering factors such as cinematography, editing, sound design, and original score.
- Cinematography: The nominations committee considers the quality of the cinematography, evaluating the use of lighting, color, and composition to convey the film’s themes and tone.
- Editing: The committee assesses the film’s editing, evaluating the pacing, rhythm, and overall flow of the narrative.
- Sound Design: The nominees are chosen based on the quality of the sound design, including sound effects, dialogue, and music.
- Original Score: The committee considers the original score, evaluating the use of music to enhance the film’s emotional impact and narrative.
The nominated films for Best Picture at the 89th Academy Awards were:
Besides the Nominees: Notable Snubs
While the nominees received widespread recognition, some films that were expected to receive nominations did not make the cut. Notable snubs included:
| Film | Reason for Snub |
|---|---|
| La La Land | Despite being widely acclaimed and a major box office success, La La Land did not receive a nomination for Best Picture. However, it did receive a record-breaking 14 nominations and won 6 awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle. |
| The Revenant | The Revenant was a critical and commercial success, but it did not receive a nomination for Best Picture. However, it did receive 12 nominations and won 3 awards, including Best Actor for Leonardo DiCaprio. |
| Captain Fantastic | Captain Fantastic was a critical success and received several Independent Spirit Award nominations. However, it did not receive a nomination for Best Picture at the 89th Academy Awards. |
The 89th Academy Awards marked a momentous occasion in the world of cinema, celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship of filmmakers and actors. The nominations and snubs provided a glimpse into the complexities and nuances of the film industry, and the winners left a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape.The story behind each nominated film’s creation is a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance.
From the historical drama of “Hacksaw Ridge” to the animated adventure of “Zootopia”, each film had its unique qualities and challenges. The directors and actors behind them brought their passion and dedication to the craft, resulting in a range of exceptional films that captivated audiences worldwide.The nominations committee’s criteria, including cinematography, editing, and sound design, highlight the importance of technical and artistic merit in the film industry.
The nominated films demonstrated a high level of craftsmanship, showcasing the skill and expertise of filmmakers and actors.The notable snubs, including “La La Land”, “The Revenant”, and “Captain Fantastic”, add another layer of intrigue to the story of the 89th Academy Awards. Each film had its unique qualities and challenges, and the committee’s decisions provided a glimpse into the complexities of the film industry.The 89th Academy Awards will forever be remembered as a celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation in the film industry.
Historical Context of the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture Nominees, Providing a Timeline of Major Events Leading Up to the Ceremony
The 89th Academy Awards, held on February 26, 2017, celebrated a wide range of films that showcased the diverse talent in the industry. As the world marked significant milestones, the nominees for Best Picture reflected a timeline of major events, cultural shifts, and technological advancements. Let’s delve into the historical context surrounding these iconic films.
Major Events Leading to the Ceremony
The nominees for the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture category were influenced by various historical events, technological advancements, and cultural shifts in the film industry. Here’s a list of pivotal events, films nominated, and their impact on the industry.
| Year | Key Event | Film Nomination | Impact on the Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Arrest of Julian Assange & Wikileaks | The Fifth Estate | Shed light on the complexities of media, government control, and global politics in cinema |
| 2013 | Edward Snowden’s NSA Leaks | Zero Dark Thirty | Highlight government spying and global surveillance in film |
| 2015 | Increased Representation of BLM Movement | 13th | Focus attention to the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the US film industry |
| 2015 | Global #MeToo Movement began | Spotlight | Promote a wave of transparency in the film industry regarding misconduct, power dynamics, and accountability |
These pivotal events, combined with technological advancements in filmmaking, led to a surge in diverse filmmaking techniques and narratives. The industry witnessed a transformation, with filmmakers pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.
The 89th Academy Awards took place on a night filled with glamour and suspense, as “Moonlight” pulled off an upset for Best Picture, beating out the heavy favorite “La La Land”. As the audience gasped in shock, many were left wondering what games would put even the most seasoned awards show-goers to the test – a fun and thrilling game like best truth or dare game could have been a great icebreaker.
But in the end, the film industry’s biggest night remained a closely guarded secret, until it was finally revealed.
Cultural Shifts in Film Industry
In recent years, there has been an increased emphasis on diversity, inclusivity, and representation in the film industry. The nominees for the Best Picture category reflect this shift, showcasing films that tackle pressing issues, challenge biases, and promote empathy.
Technological Advancements in Filmmaking
Technological advancements in filmmaking have played a crucial role in the success of many films nominated for the Best Picture category. From the use of 3D technology in Jane to the innovative cinematography in Audition, filmmakers are consistently exploring new ways to captivate audiences and bring complex stories to life.
Analysis of the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture Nominees’ Casting and Crew Choices, Highlighting Unconventional Director-Actor Collaborations

The 89th Academy Awards Best Picture nominees featured several unconventional director-actor collaborations that captivated audiences and received recognition from the film industry. These pairings not only showcased the talents of the actors but also offered a unique perspective on storytelling, often resulting in critically acclaimed films. This analysis delves into the notable collaborations between directors and actors in each of the nominated films, highlighting their approaches to storytelling and the benefits they presented for the film’s production.
Unique Collaborations and Their Approaches to Storytelling
One of the notable collaborations was between Damien Chazelle and Ryan Gosling in “La La Land.” Chazelle, known for his musical expertise, paired with Gosling to create a film that blended jazz, drama, and romance. This collaboration not only showcased Gosling’s exceptional acting skills but also Chazelle’s ability to effectively incorporate music into the narrative.In a similar vein, Barry Jenkins and Mahershala Ali collaborated on “Moonlight,” a coming-of-age drama that explores themes of identity and community.
Jenkins’ sensitive direction allowed Ali to deliver a powerful performance, which earned him an Oscar win for Best Supporting Actor. Their collaboration demonstrated the importance of nuance and subtlety in storytelling.Additionally, Denis Villeneuve and Jake Gyllenhaal collaborated on “Arrival,” a science fiction film that explores the concept of language and time. Villeneuve’s direction paired with Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of a linguist grappling with the complexities of language and memory created a compelling narrative that challenged the audience’s perspective.These collaborations demonstrate the value of unconventional pairings in filmmaking, as they allow for fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling approaches.
By combining the talents of directors and actors, these films were able to create a unique viewing experience that captivated audiences and inspired critical acclaim.
Challenges and Benefits of Unconventional Collaborations
While unconventional director-actor collaborations can result in exceptional films, they can also present challenges during production. For instance, the collaboration between Mel Gibson and Viggo Mortensen on “Hacksaw Ridge” required a complex balance between action, drama, and biographical elements. Gibson’s direction paired with Mortensen’s physical and emotional transformation to portray the character of Desmond Doss resulted in a powerful and emotional film.However, this collaboration also faced criticism for its unconventional approach to storytelling, particularly the decision to omit the use of profanity and graphic content.
An often-overlooked parallel can be drawn between outstanding individual performance in the movies, such as the 89th Academy Awards’ Best Picture winner, and that of top defensemen in the NHL, like the one ranked at best dman in nhl , requiring an unwavering commitment to protecting and creating scoring opportunities, a balance that filmmakers strive to strike when crafting captivating storylines and character arcs in their own narratives.
Despite these challenges, the film’s unique narrative and performances earned widespread critical acclaim and recognition.Similarly, the collaboration between Kenneth Lonergan and Casey Affleck on “Manchester by the Sea” presented challenges in terms of character development and emotional depth. Lonergan’s direction paired with Affleck’s portrayal of a troubled man struggling to come to terms with his past created a poignant and emotionally resonant film.Ultimately, the success of these collaborations lies in their ability to balance the talents of the director and actor while remaining true to the intended narrative and emotional depth.
By embracing unconventional pairings, filmmakers can create fresh and innovative stories that captivate audiences and inspire critical acclaim.
Impact on the Film Industry
The impact of unconventional director-actor collaborations on the film industry cannot be overstated. By pushing the boundaries of storytelling and exploring new narrative approaches, these collaborations inspire a new generation of filmmakers and actors. The influence of these collaborations can be seen in the rising popularity of independent cinema and the growing recognition of non-traditional casting choices.Moreover, these collaborations often result in critical acclaim and recognition, as seen in the numerous awards and nominations received by the films discussed in this analysis.
This recognition not only elevates the profile of the filmmakers involved but also contributes to the growth and diversification of the film industry.
| Collaboration | Description |
|---|---|
| Damien Chazelle and Ryan Gosling | “La La Land” showcases a blend of jazz, drama, and romance, with Chazelle’s musical expertise paired with Gosling’s exceptional acting skills. |
| Barry Jenkins and Mahershala Ali | “Moonlight” explores themes of identity and community, with Jenkins’ sensitive direction allowing Ali to deliver a powerful performance. |
| Denis Villeneuve and Jake Gyllenhaal | “Arrival” challenges the audience’s perspective with its exploration of language and time, with Villeneuve’s direction paired with Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of a linguist. |
Cultural Significance of the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture Nominees, Focusing on Diversity and Representation
The 89th Academy Awards ceremony, held on February 26, 2017, marked a significant milestone in the film industry’s shift towards greater diversity and representation. This year’s nominees for Best Picture included a diverse range of films that celebrated the experiences of underrepresented communities.Among the nominees, films like “Moonlight,” “Hidden Figures,” and “Fences” stood out for their authentic portrayal of diverse characters, crews, and narrative perspectives.
These films not only broke box office records but also sparked conversations about the importance of representation in the film industry.
“With ‘Moonlight,’ we want to give people the opportunity to see themselves in a film that reflects their own experiences, hopes, and struggles.”
Barry Jenkins, Director of “Moonlight”
The success of these films can be attributed to a growing trend in the industry towards greater diversity and inclusion. Many filmmakers are now actively seeking out more diverse talent, incorporating different perspectives, and creating stories that resonate with underrepresented communities. Representation in the FilmsHere are some examples of films nominated for Best Picture that feature diverse casts, crews, and narrative perspectives:
Women in Lead Roles
- “Hidden Figures” tells the inspiring story of three African-American women who worked as mathematicians and engineers at NASA, highlighting their contributions to the success of the Apollo 11 mission.
- “The Beguiled” is a remake of the 1971 film, with a predominantly female cast, including stars like Elle Fanning and Kirsten Dunst.
Diverse Leading Men
- “Moonlight” follows the journey of a young African-American man, Chiron, as he navigates his identity and family dynamics in a predominantly African-American neighborhood.
- “Fences” is an adaptation of August Wilson’s play, starring Denzel Washington as a powerful black working-class man, Troy, grappling with his relationships and identity.
Breakthrough Performances from Diverse Actors
- “La La Land” features a breakout performance by Ryan Gosling, but it also highlights the talents of other underrepresented actors, including Rosie Perez, who was nominated for her supporting role.
- “Manchester by the Sea” stars Lucas Hedges, an up-and-coming actor from a diverse background, who received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
These films not only showcased remarkable performances but also paved the way for more diverse storytelling in the film industry.In conclusion, the 89th Academy Awards ceremony marked a significant moment in the industry’s shift towards greater diversity and representation. The nominees for Best Picture demonstrated a commitment to storytelling that celebrates the experiences of underrepresented communities and highlights the talent and contributions of diverse individuals.
Impact of the 89th Academy Awards on the Film Industry, Focusing on Trends in Storytelling and Production
The 89th Academy Awards, held on February 26, 2017, marked a significant milestone in the film industry, reflecting and influencing the trends in storytelling and production. The ceremony showcased a diverse range of nominees, with films like “La La Land” and “Moonlight” pushing the boundaries of storytelling, character development, and cinematic techniques. In this section, we will delve into the impact of the 89th Academy Awards on the film industry, highlighting the trends and innovations that emerged in the aftermath of the ceremony.
Telling Stories Beyond Hollywood: Diversification of Global Cinema
The 89th Academy Awards saw a significant shift towards global cinema, with films like “The Salesman” and “A Man Called Ove” earning nominations. This trend reflects the industry’s growing recognition of international storytelling and its ability to captivate global audiences. The success of these films demonstrates that storytelling is no longer limited to Hollywood’s traditional narrative structure.| Year | Trend | Example Film | Industry Impact || — | — | — | — || 2015 | Global cinema | “The Salesman” | Increased recognition of international stories and their potential to captivate global audiences || 2016 | Global cinema | “A Man Called Ove” | Shift in industry focus towards diverse storytelling and representation || 2017 | Global cinema | “The Square” | Increased collaboration and co-production between global filmmakers and industry professionals || 2018 | Global cinema | “Roma” | Greater emphasis on authentic representation and cultural sensitivity in storytelling |The 89th Academy Awards marked a significant turning point in the film industry’s recognition of global cinema, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive film landscape.With the rise of global cinema, filmmakers are now pushing the boundaries of storytelling, exploring new narratives, and experimenting with innovative techniques.
This shift in industry focus has created opportunities for emerging talent and filmmakers from diverse backgrounds.As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how global cinema influences the types of stories told and the ways in which they are presented.
Blending Reality and Fantasy: The Rise of Hybrid Storytelling
The 89th Academy Awards also saw a trend towards hybrid storytelling, with films like “La La Land” and “The Shape of Water” blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. This trend reflects the industry’s growing interest in exploring complex narratives and pushing the boundaries of cinematic techniques.| Year | Trend | Example Film | Industry Impact || — | — | — | — || 2015 | Hybrid storytelling | “The Martian” | Increased use of fantasy and sci-fi elements in mainstream films || 2016 | Hybrid storytelling | “Arrival” | Greater emphasis on thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating storytelling || 2017 | Hybrid storytelling | “La La Land” | Blend of musical and realistic storytelling, appealing to a broad range of audiences || 2018 | Hybrid storytelling | “Blade Runner 2049” | Increased use of visual and narrative experimentation in high-end productions |The 89th Academy Awards highlighted the industry’s growing interest in hybrid storytelling, showcasing films that seamlessly blend reality and fantasy.
This trend has opened up new opportunities for filmmakers to experiment with complex narratives and cinematic techniques.By embracing hybrid storytelling, the industry is creating more engaging and thought-provoking experiences for audiences, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the big screen.As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how hybrid storytelling influences the types of stories told and the ways in which they are presented.
New Frontiers in Cinematic Techniques: Innovation and Experimentation
The 89th Academy Awards also showcased the industry’s growing interest in innovation and experimentation, with films like “Moonlight” and “Arrival” pushing the boundaries of cinematic techniques. This trend reflects the industry’s growing recognition of the importance of visual and narrative innovation in captivating global audiences.| Year | Trend | Example Film | Industry Impact || — | — | — | — || 2015 | Cinematic innovation | “Mad Max: Fury Road” | Increased emphasis on high-octane action sequences and stunning visual effects || 2016 | Cinematic innovation | “The Revenant” | Greater use of practical effects and immersive storytelling in blockbuster films || 2017 | Cinematic innovation | “Moonlight” | Increased recognition of the importance of diverse representation in storytelling || 2018 | Cinematic innovation | “Blade Runner 2049” | Push towards more immersive and technologically advanced cinematic experiences |The 89th Academy Awards highlighted the industry’s growing interest in innovation and experimentation, showcasing films that pushed the boundaries of cinematic techniques.
This trend has opened up new opportunities for filmmakers to experiment with visual and narrative innovation, creating more engaging and thought-provoking experiences for audiences.By embracing innovation and experimentation, the industry is creating new standards for cinematic excellence, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the big screen.As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how innovation and experimentation influence the types of stories told and the ways in which they are presented.
Comparison of the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture Nominees with Previous Awards Winners, Analyzing Common Themes and Trends

The 89th Academy Awards Best Picture nominees reflect the evolution of storytelling in cinema, influenced by cultural and social changes over the years. A closer look at previous winners and nominees reveals common themes and trends that have shaped the film industry.
Common Themes in Previous Best Picture Winners
Several recurring themes have emerged in previous Best Picture winners, including the human condition, social justice, and the power of storytelling.
- Human Condition: Films that examine the complexities of human nature, relationships, and emotions have consistently been recognized by the Academy. Examples include “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975), “The King’s Speech” (2010), and “12 Years a Slave” (2013).
- Social Justice: Movies that address issues of social inequality, oppression, and marginalization have received widespread acclaim. The “Gone with the Wind” (1939) and “The Help” (2011) can be seen as pioneers of this trend.
- The Power of Storytelling: The Academy has celebrated films that harness the power of storytelling to inspire, educate, or challenge their audiences. Classics like “The Godfather” (1972) and “Schindler’s List” (1993) exemplify this theme.
- Historical Relevance: Films set against historical backgrounds have also been repeatedly honored. The “Schindler’s List” and “The Pianist” (2002) are notable examples.
- Diverse Perspectives: The Academy has made an effort to highlight diverse perspectives and voices, as seen in winners like “Moonlight” (2016) and “Parasite” (2019).
Nominees for the 89th Academy Awards and Their Alignment with Common Themes
The 89th Academy Awards Best Picture nominees demonstrate a blend of continuity and innovation, reflecting the evolution of storytelling in cinema.
- “La La Land” and “Moonlight” can be seen as representatives of the human condition and diverse perspectives.
- “Manchester by the Sea” tackles themes of grief, loss, and the human condition.
- “Arrival” and “Fences” address complex social issues, including identity and justice.
- “Hacksaw Ridge” and “Hell or High Water” showcase the power of storytelling in the face of adversity.
The nominees for the 89th Academy Awards demonstrate a willingness to tackle complex themes and diverse perspectives, solidifying the continuity of these themes in the film industry.
Convergence and Divergence with Previous Trends
While the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture nominees reflect the evolution of storytelling in cinema, they also show divergence from some of the common themes and trends observed in previous winners.
- Shift from Historical Relevance to Contemporary Themes: The emphasis on contemporary themes and issues, such as identity and social justice, marks a shift away from historical relevance.
- Increased Representation of Diverse Perspectives: The nominees showcase a significant increase in representation of diverse perspectives and voices.
- Evolution of Storytelling Techniques: The use of innovative storytelling techniques, such as non-linear narratives and unconventional camera work, reflects the evolution of filmmaking.
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Opinion and Perceptions of the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture Nominees
Social media played a significant role in shaping the public’s opinion and perception of the 89th Academy Awards best picture nominees. The nominees’ performances, films, and even their acceptance speeches were extensively discussed and critiqued on various social media platforms. As a result, the nominees’ images were significantly influenced by online reviews, viral content, and influencers’ endorsements.The widespread reach and fast-paced nature of social media enabled the public to share and discuss their opinions about the nominees in real-time.
This created a digital buzz around the event, as people from all over the world weighed in on the performances, fashion, and politics involved. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook became hubs for lively debates, memes, and discussions about the nominees and their films.
The Impact of Influencers on Social Media Campaigns
Influencers played a crucial role in shaping the public’s perception of the nominees. By leveraging their massive followings, influencers promoted the nominees’ films, shared their opinions, and even hosted social media Q&A sessions. This created a sense of exclusivity and authenticity around the event, as people looked up to influencers for recommendations and insights.For instance, popular beauty and lifestyle influencer, Jenna Marbles, posted a series of tweets praising the performance of Emma Stone in La La Land.
Her endorsement helped raise the film’s profile and increased its social media engagement. This demonstrates how influencers’ endorsements can significantly impact public opinion and perception of the nominees.
The Power of Online Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews and ratings also played a vital role in shaping public opinion about the nominees. Review websites and social media platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, IMDB, and Metacritic allowed users to rate and review the nominees’ films. This created a collective snapshot of public opinion, which significantly influenced the way the nominees were perceived.For example, the film Moonlight received widespread critical acclaim, with many considering it one of the greatest films of all time.
Social media platforms were flooded with reviews and ratings, which helped solidify the film’s reputation as a masterpiece. Conversely, films like The Lobster received mixed reviews, with some users praising its originality while others criticized its tone.
Viral Content and Memes
Viral content and memes also played a significant role in shaping public opinion about the nominees. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Vine were flooded with memes and videos that parodied the performers, films, and even the event itself. These memes often went viral, further amplifying public opinion and creating a sense of cultural relevance.For instance, the infamous envelope mix-up during the announcement of Best Picture was widely parodied on social media.
Memes featuring the mistake were shared millions of times, poking fun at the event and its organizers. This not only reflected the public’s reaction to the mistake but also showcased the rapid pace at which information spreads on social media.
“The 89th Academy Awards was a prime example of how social media can shape public opinion and perception. The nominees’ performances, films, and even their acceptance speeches were extensively discussed and critiqued on various social media platforms. As a result, the nominees’ images were significantly influenced by online reviews, viral content, and influencers’ endorsements.”
Last Point

As we reflect on the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture nominees, it is clear that they have left an indelible mark on the film industry and beyond. With each nominee offering a unique perspective on storytelling, filmmaking techniques, and representation, it is no wonder that these films continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of filmmakers.
FAQ
What were the main factors that influenced the nominations for the 89th Academy Awards Best Picture?
The nominations committee considered a range of factors, including cinematography, editing, and sound design, when choosing the nominees. Additionally, the committee took into account the historical context and cultural significance of each film, along with the innovative ways in which they utilized new technologies and storytelling techniques.
How did the nominated films impact the film industry, and what trends did they reflect?
The nominated films reflected and influenced industry-wide changes in storytelling, production, and representation. They showcased exceptional direction, acting, and cinematography, while also pushing the boundaries of technology and cultural relevance.
What role did social media play in shaping public opinion on the nominees and their performances?
Social media played a significant role in shaping public opinion on the nominees and their performances, with online reviews, viral content, and influencer endorsements influencing the way the nominees were perceived by the public.