From December through April, the best movies of 2021/2022 are recognized by the press, fans, and members of the film industry in dozens of awards competitions. With the added wrinkle of some hybrid theatrical and limited-release streaming titles mixing with powerhouse blockbuster films that have been sitting on the shelf for months before release, it is hard to predict which will capture voters’ attention. And we’re just getting started. Only one major show has held an in-person ceremony, and while there are still a few major players yet to screen for critics, we can at least start tracking how well the contenders are doing at the early stops on the journey to Oscar night.
The first contests of the year and unofficial kick-off of the season, the Gotham Awards and National Board of Review honors, are less indicative of Oscar chances but still a strong indicator for end-of-year nominees. Last year, Nomadland took home the top prize at the Gothams on its way to sweeping the season, topping our awards leaderboard, and taking home the Oscars for Best Director and Best Picture. Meanwhile at the National Board of Review Da Five Bloods was listed as the Best Film but failed to secure any Oscar nominations. This year, Maggie Gyllenhaal’s debut feature The Lost Daughter was the big winner of the night and the Gotham’s, so it tops our leaderboard for now, but we are a long way from knowing who will stand out from the pack once the season heats up. For now, you should just bookmark this page to follow along each week and check out who’s taking home the hardware this season. Will favorites emerge and dominate early, or will they break into the contest late? Either way, it goes, we will keep you up to date.
Read on to find out where your favorite movies stand, and let us know what you think in the comments.
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