2023 Oscar Nominations: The Complete List

Hey everyone! The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here. The nominations for the 2023 Oscars are out, and it's time to dive into the films, actors, and behind-the-scenes wizards who've captured our hearts and imaginations this year. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's break down the full list of nominees. From the frontrunners to the underdogs, we'll cover it all. Let's get started!

Best Picture

Okay, let's kick things off with the big one: Best Picture! This is the category everyone's talking about, and for good reason. The nominees this year are an incredible mix of genres, styles, and stories, showcasing the diverse landscape of filmmaking today. Seeing the diversity of narratives and creative vision that each film brings to the table is incredibly exciting.

• "Avatar: The Way of Water": James Cameron returns with a visually stunning sequel that pushes the boundaries of cinematic technology. "Avatar: The Way of Water" immerses audiences in a breathtaking underwater world, continuing the saga of the Na'vi people. The film's groundbreaking visual effects and epic scope have made it a box office juggernaut and a strong contender for Best Picture.
• "Everything Everywhere All at Once": This mind-bending, genre-defying film has taken the world by storm. "Everything Everywhere All at Once" is a wild ride through alternate realities, exploring themes of family, identity, and the meaning of life. With its innovative storytelling and stellar performances, it's no wonder this film is a frontrunner in the Best Picture race. The creativity and originality shine through, making it a standout in this year's nominations.
• "The Banshees of Inisherin": A dark comedy-drama set on a remote Irish island, "The Banshees of Inisherin" explores the complexities of friendship and the human condition. The film's sharp wit and poignant performances have resonated with audiences and critics alike. Its exploration of human relationships against the backdrop of a stunning landscape creates a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film is a powerful exploration of isolation and the search for meaning.
• "Elvis": Baz Luhrmann's vibrant and energetic biopic brings the King of Rock and Roll to life on the big screen. "Elvis" is a dazzling spectacle filled with music, drama, and incredible performances, particularly from Austin Butler in the lead role. The film captures the energy and excitement of Elvis's career, making it a crowd-pleasing contender for Best Picture. The film's visual style and dynamic storytelling make it a standout.
• "The Fabelmans": Steven Spielberg's semi-autobiographical film is a deeply personal and moving story about a young man's coming-of-age and his passion for filmmaking. "The Fabelmans" is a love letter to the magic of cinema, filled with heartfelt moments and stunning visuals. Spielberg's personal touch makes this film a standout in his illustrious career. The film's exploration of family and creativity resonates deeply.
• "Tár": A psychological drama starring Cate Blanchett as a renowned conductor, "Tár" delves into the complexities of power, ambition, and the price of success. The film's nuanced storytelling and Blanchett's mesmerizing performance have earned critical acclaim. The film is a compelling exploration of a complex character in a high-stakes world. The film's intellectual depth and artistic vision make it a serious contender.
• "Top Gun: Maverick": Tom Cruise returns in this high-flying sequel that delivers thrilling action and nostalgic charm. "Top Gun: Maverick" is a crowd-pleasing blockbuster that has captivated audiences with its stunning aerial sequences and heartfelt story. The film's combination of nostalgia and cutting-edge filmmaking has made it a box office sensation and a contender for Best Picture. The film's impressive visuals and exciting narrative make it a standout.
• "Triangle of Sadness": A satirical dark comedy that skewers the worlds of fashion and wealth, "Triangle of Sadness" is a provocative and hilarious film that challenges societal norms. The film's sharp wit and biting social commentary have made it a standout in this year's nominations. The film is a bold and daring exploration of class and privilege.
• "Women Talking": A powerful and thought-provoking drama based on the novel by Miriam Toews, "Women Talking" tells the story of a group of women in an isolated religious community grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault. The film's timely and important themes, combined with its strong performances, have made it a critical darling. The film's exploration of trauma and resilience is both powerful and moving. The performances are uniformly excellent.

Each of these films brings something unique to the table, making the Best Picture category one of the most exciting to watch. The diversity in storytelling and creative vision is truly remarkable.

Best Director

Alright, let's move on to Best Director! This is where we celebrate the masterminds behind the camera, the visionaries who bring these incredible stories to life. This year's nominees are a mix of established auteurs and rising stars, each with their own unique style and approach to filmmaking.

• Martin McDonagh ("The Banshees of Inisherin"): McDonagh's darkly comedic and poignant direction brings the remote Irish island to life, creating a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience. His ability to blend humor and drama is truly remarkable. McDonagh's sharp wit and insightful storytelling make him a standout in this year's nominations. His direction is both subtle and powerful.
• Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert ("Everything Everywhere All at Once"): This dynamic duo, known as the Daniels, has blown audiences away with their innovative and genre-bending direction. Their film is a wild ride through alternate realities, showcasing their boundless creativity and imagination. The Daniels' fresh and original approach to filmmaking makes them a force to be reckoned with. Their ability to blend genres and create a truly unique cinematic experience is truly impressive. Their direction is bold, inventive, and unforgettable.
• Steven Spielberg ("The Fabelmans"): A true legend of cinema, Spielberg delivers a deeply personal and moving film that reflects on his own life and love of filmmaking. His masterful direction brings warmth, humor, and a touch of magic to this semi-autobiographical story. Spielberg's personal touch and unparalleled storytelling skills make him a perennial favorite in the Best Director category. His direction is both intimate and epic. His ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level is truly remarkable.
• Todd Field ("Tár"): Field's nuanced and complex direction delves into the world of classical music and the complexities of power and ambition. His meticulous attention to detail and masterful storytelling create a captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Field's intellectual and artistic vision makes him a standout in this year's nominations. His direction is precise, insightful, and unforgettable. His ability to create a compelling and complex character study is truly impressive.
• Ruben Östlund ("Triangle of Sadness"): Östlund's satirical and provocative direction skewers the worlds of fashion and wealth, challenging societal norms and provoking laughter and thought. His bold and daring approach to filmmaking makes him a standout in this year's nominations. Östlund's sharp wit and biting social commentary make him a force to be reckoned with. His direction is bold, provocative, and unforgettable.

Each of these directors has brought their unique vision and talent to the screen, creating films that have captivated audiences and critics alike. The Best Director category is always a highlight of the Oscars, and this year is no exception.

Best Actor

Let's shine a spotlight on the incredible performances in the Best Actor category! These actors have moved us, entertained us, and brought their characters to life in unforgettable ways. This year's nominees are a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each delivering a performance that is both captivating and memorable.

• Austin Butler ("Elvis"): Butler's electrifying portrayal of the King of Rock and Roll has earned him widespread acclaim. His transformation into Elvis Presley is truly remarkable, capturing the singer's charisma, energy, and vulnerability. Butler's performance is both a tribute and a reinvention, making him a frontrunner in the Best Actor race. His dedication and commitment to the role are truly impressive. He embodies the spirit of Elvis.
• Colin Farrell ("The Banshees of Inisherin"): Farrell delivers a nuanced and heartfelt performance as a man grappling with the sudden end of his friendship. His portrayal of loneliness, confusion, and despair is both moving and relatable. Farrell's ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and depth makes him a standout in this year's nominations. His performance is both poignant and powerful.
• Brendan Fraser ("The Whale"): Fraser's transformative performance as a reclusive English teacher struggling with obesity has resonated with audiences and critics alike. His portrayal of pain, regret, and the search for redemption is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Fraser's vulnerability and commitment to the role are truly remarkable. This role marks a triumphant return for Fraser.
• Paul Mescal ("Aftersun"): Mescal delivers a subtle and moving performance as a young father on vacation with his daughter. His portrayal of love, vulnerability, and hidden pain is both touching and authentic. Mescal's ability to convey complex emotions with minimal dialogue is truly impressive. His performance is both understated and powerful.
• Bill Nighy ("Living"): Nighy delivers a masterclass in understated acting as a civil servant who decides to make the most of his remaining days after receiving a life-changing diagnosis. His portrayal of quiet dignity, resilience, and the search for meaning is both moving and inspiring. Nighy's subtle and nuanced performance is a testament to his talent and experience. His performance is both poignant and profound.

Each of these actors has delivered a performance that is both memorable and impactful, making the Best Actor category one of the most competitive and exciting to watch.

Best Actress

Now, let's celebrate the incredible women who have graced the screen with their talent and charisma in the Best Actress category! These actresses have captivated us with their performances, bringing depth, emotion, and complexity to their characters. This year's nominees are a mix of established stars and rising talents, each delivering a performance that is both powerful and unforgettable.

• Cate Blanchett ("Tár"): Blanchett's mesmerizing portrayal of a renowned conductor grappling with power, ambition, and personal demons has earned her widespread acclaim. Her performance is a masterclass in acting, showcasing her ability to embody complex and flawed characters with nuance and depth. Blanchett's commanding presence and intellectual prowess make her a frontrunner in the Best Actress race. Her performance is both captivating and unsettling.
• Ana de Armas ("Blonde"): De Armas delivers a transformative performance as Marilyn Monroe, capturing the iconic actress's vulnerability, charisma, and inner turmoil. Her portrayal of the Hollywood legend is both respectful and daring, showcasing her range and talent. De Armas's commitment to the role is truly impressive. Her performance is both mesmerizing and heartbreaking.
• Andrea Riseborough ("To Leslie"): Riseborough delivers a powerful and raw performance as a single mother struggling with addiction and poverty. Her portrayal of resilience, hope, and the fight for survival is both moving and inspiring. Riseborough's vulnerability and commitment to the role are truly remarkable. Her performance is both authentic and unforgettable.
• Michelle Williams ("The Fabelmans"): Williams delivers a heartfelt and nuanced performance as a mother navigating the challenges of family and creativity. Her portrayal of warmth, strength, and hidden pain is both touching and relatable. Williams's ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace makes her a standout in this year's nominations. Her performance is both tender and powerful.
• Michelle Yeoh ("Everything Everywhere All at Once"): Yeoh delivers a tour-de-force performance as a laundromat owner who must save the world by connecting with alternate versions of herself. Her portrayal of strength, vulnerability, and the power of family is both exhilarating and moving. Yeoh's versatility and charisma make her a frontrunner in the Best Actress race. Her performance is both action-packed and deeply emotional.

These actresses have brought their A-game, delivering performances that will be remembered for years to come. The Best Actress category is always a highlight of the Oscars, and this year is no exception. The depth of talent is remarkable.

Other Key Categories

Of course, the Oscars are about more than just the big four categories. Let's take a quick look at some other key categories and the talented individuals who have been nominated:

• Best Supporting Actor: This year's nominees include Brendan Gleeson ("The Banshees of Inisherin"), Brian Tyree Henry ("Causeway"), Judd Hirsch ("The Fabelmans"), Barry Keoghan ("The Banshees of Inisherin"), and Ke Huy Quan ("Everything Everywhere All at Once").
• Best Supporting Actress: The nominees are Angela Bassett ("Black Panther: Wakanda Forever"), Hong Chau ("The Whale"), Kerry Condon ("The Banshees of Inisherin"), Jamie Lee Curtis ("Everything Everywhere All at Once"), and Stephanie Hsu ("Everything Everywhere All at Once").
• Best Animated Feature Film: The nominees include "Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio", "Marcel the Shell with Shoes On", "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish", "The Sea Beast", and "Turning Red".
• Best International Feature Film: The nominees are "All Quiet on the Western Front" (Germany), "Argentina, 1985" (Argentina), "Close" (Belgium), "EO" (Poland), and "The Quiet Girl" (Ireland).

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! The complete list of nominations for the 2023 Oscars. It's going to be an exciting night, filled with glamour, suspense, and celebration of the best in film. Be sure to tune in and see who takes home the gold! What are your predictions? Which films and actors are you rooting for? Let me know in the comments below!