A loud distorted boom echoes. A deep voice resounds. Fast-paced cuts flash across the screen. Big bold letters appear:“MOVIE OF THE YEAR!” 

Why is it that every generic movie has the same phrase slapped on its trailer? How is the audience supposed to know that before it even comes out in theatres? 

There is always a great argument over which film should be considered ‘Movie of the Year’ and the Oscars manage to fuel it even more. It’s also difficult to decide whether or not the Oscars even matter 

With its lack of diversity in winners and content, and a focus on sensational news like the red carpet and who’s wearing what, interest in the Oscars seems to be on a steady 

Starting in 2018 the TV ratings dropped by around 17% by Variety Magazine’s numbers. According to TV Line, this year’s ratings went down between 20% to 30% for its 92nd showing, the worst decline in its 

What viewers usually have seen at the Oscars is not a reflection of the Hollywood industry itself, which is now more diverse than it has ever 

The best picture of the year comprises several different elements. The film should be structured in a way that flows together cohesively with solid character development. This includes all aspects of it, not just the script, but the cinematography, sound design, editing and 

Film is a lens into society and a connection to the audience can always be made to what’s on the screen in one way or another. That doesn’t mean it always has to be a serious drama. Every genre brings its own style, composition and rules. Each of these films should be like a snapshot of the times in which they were 

That being said, it was great to see one foreign film and one movie directed by a woman recognized by the Academy this year. The South Korean film, “Parasite,” won Best Picture, and rightfully so. The film is one big, giant metaphor about the complexities of man and our capitalist society. It’s clear why it deserves Best 

Every shot reels the viewer in who waits to see what happens next, yet offers great relief throughout with comedy. The movie is tense, yet hilarious. The director, Bong Joon Ho, stays away from simplicities such as rich vs. poor or good vs. evil, and offers the viewer more complexity which stays on the mind hours after 

Other nominees for Best Picture that were the most memorable this year include “1917” and “Little 

Director Greta Gerwig delivers a new interpretation of the long adored novel that explores the bond between sisters. It is emotional and sensitive, delving into gender and socioeconomic truths, but for people that aren’t already invested in the book, the context may be lost on them. Still, “Little Women” would not have been a disappointing win for Best 

“1917” came forward with a game-changing single shot style and visual effects that took the theatres by storm. You take that aspect away, however, and it’s just another war film about a harrowing adventure. The plot relies on the technical achievements to set it apart in the genre, which makes it better fitting for the Best Cinematography 

“Uncut Gems” is a film that was released during the eligibility period  but was not nominated. It provided probably the most memorable performance of Adam Sandler’s career. It was produced by A24, an indie entertainment company that’s becoming a solid player in the 

A number of A24’s recent films have been snubbed at the Oscars. From “Hereditary” to “Midsommar” and now “Uncut Gems,” their creative and original works have repeatedly not been given the recognition they 

“Uncut Gems” is a modern day Greek tragedy. The main character is an absolute train wreck, a fact that’s driven home throughout the film. Yet the direction and Sandler’s performance help audiences to root for the character all the way to the 

Watching the film is an anxiety inducing experience, like a rollercoaster except the rollercoaster is stuck at the very top, rocking back and forth, waiting there instead of going down for 2 hours and 15 

“Uncut Gems” is an amazing example of the power of film. Not receiving a nomination emphasizes the point that the Oscars have a long way to go in the kinds of films and artists that are represented. “Parasite,” a foreign film, winning four Oscars at the 92nd award show is a long overdue step in the right 

Best Picture can be different for each individual viewer. Although the characteristics of one will stay the same, film stirs different emotions for anyone participating in or viewing 

The best option: let the viewer pick their own Best Picture.