1. “A Star is Born”– The film that has captured a nation, “A Star is Born” centers around two musicians whose relationship goes through a rise and fall in a major way. A critical success and an explosive hit, this film will almost definitely get a nomination for Best Picture. With a chorus of moving songs and fantastic performances from Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga, it’s not a surprise that the film has connected to so many.

2. “Roma”– From director Alfonso Cuaron comes a moving story about a family and their housemaid in Mexico during the 1970s. Already regarded as an absolute masterpiece this film is currently neck in neck with “A Star is Born” for Oscar gold. The film is shot in black and white by Cuaron himself and is spoken entirely in Spanish. Although the film may not be as mainstream as other films, it is definitely a favorite with the critics and audience mostly due to its portrayal of family and love even during the hardest of times.

3. “Green Book”– This film has swept the hearts of critics and audiences from several different festivals. Starring Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali, the movie tells the story of a white driver who drives around an African-American pianist. They follow a guide, called the green book, that gives safe havens for African-Americans to stay in the deep south.

4. “The Favourite”– directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, “The Favourite” tells the story of the Queen of England and Queen Anne, and how two of her consorts vie for her favor. The film stars Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, and Rachel Weisz, who each give enchanting performances in this semi-comedic film. The director wisely balances the drama of the situation with the comedy, highlighting the absolute insanity of what is going on. 

5. “BlackKkKlansman”– Directed by Spike Lee, this film centers around the first black police officer in an all-white police department. With the help of his partner, played by Adam Driver, and utilizing what he describes as his “white voice”, he infiltrates the Ku Klux Klan to stop them from committing murders. The movie has been called, powerful, emotional and hilarious. It deals with heavy themes such as racism and social divides in the South while also showing how personal feelings can get mixed up in a case. It nails all of this, especially with a heartfelt ending.