STEAMY STREAMING: SNUBBED
US, Uncut Gems, Hustlers + more
The Oscars are a week away. Let’s just take a moment for that to set in. An early February ceremony date means an abbreviated Oscar season. In fact, not a month will have passed from the time the nominees were announced to when a film is deemed Best Picture. Because of that fact, many films fell victim to “snubbing.” Here are five films you can watch right now that should have been recognized by The Academy:
US
Jordan Peele’s sophomore album caused so much buzz in the movie world. His haunting, socially conscious follow up to Get Out featured a stellar cast and twisting plot. At the heart of it all was a disturbing, visceral performance from Lupita Nyong’o that deserved to be recognized more.
US is available on HBO.
THE FAREWELL
Lulu Wang’s feature debut paints an intimate portrait of a Chinese family as the matriarch of the family learns she doesn’t have long to live. While the family secretly organizes a wedding, they all learn the limits of life in a personal way. This is by far Awkwafina’s best performance, and Wang’s script will move you beyond belief.
The Farewell is available to rent on Vudu.
UNCUT GEMS
The Safdie brothers’ high-anxiety NYC thriller has everyone asking one thing: “Adam Sandler can act?” Gone are the charades of PG comedy and with it comes an unrecognizable performance from the divisive Hollywood comedy legend. You won’t expect what comes in this movie, which makes for a viewing experience you likely won’t forget.
Uncut Gems is available outside of the U.S. on Netflix.
HUSTLERS
Jennifer Lopez pole dancing? What more could a person ask for? JLo’s role in this film should have propelled her to a Supporting Actress nod, but that didn’t happen. That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the movie, though.
Hustlers is available to rent on Amazon Prime.
ATLANTICS
This film from Senegal had a great chance of competing in the International Feature category, but the limitation of only five nominees booted Atlantics out. The film is ultimately a love story, though it highlights the immigrant narrative, as well. It’s a stunning, guttural movie that you have to see.
Atlantics is available on Netflix.
PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE
France had some heavy hitters this year, but the country ultimately submitted a modern adaptation of Les Miserables. We wish it would have chosen this lesbian drama, Portrait of a Lady on Fire. It’s an amazing film about society and what it’s like to be a woman, making it a culturally significant contribution to cinema.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire can be seen in theaters.
