published on in blog

Focus Features 30 Best Movies, From Brokeback Mountain to Eternal Sunshine

With audacious directors, courageous actors and unforgettable stories that have touched the lives of cinephiles on a global scale, Focus Features has been a fixture in the Hollywood firmament for two decades.

Since its inception, 14 Focus films have been nominated for best picture: “The Pianist” (2002), “Lost in Translation” (2003), “Brokeback Mountain” (2005), “Atonement” (2007), “Milk” (2008), “A Serious Man” (2009), “The Kids Are All Right” (2010), “Dallas Buyers Club” (2013), “The Theory of Everything” (2014), “Darkest Hour” (2017), “Phantom Thread” (2017), “BlacKkKlansman” (2018), “Promising Young Woman” (2020) and “Belfast” (2021).

Marking the 20th anniversary of its first theatrical release, Variety is ranking the 30 best Focus Features films so far.

In the summer of 2002, the arthouse studio released its first feature, “Possession,” a romantic drama with Oscar-winner Gwyneth Paltrow and Aaron Eckhart. Directed by Neil LaBute and adapted from the novel by A.S. Byatt, this film had a soft opening, so if you were judging the likelihood of the studio’s future success based on the film’s performance at the box office, you might have assumed it might not go the distance. But like all Hollywood Cinderella tales, a little magic and guidance can go a long way.

It began with James Schamus and David Linde in 2002 as a specialty film division of Universal formed from USA Films, Universal Focus and Good Machine. The NBCUniversal-owned company went on to create some of the most inspirational and provocative films of the last 20 years. Focus is currently led by Peter Kujawski, whose career has been incubated inside the walls of Focus Features.

“There’s a spirit that’s been there since day one,” says Kujawski. “It’s been there throughout and it’s what guides us as a studio. It also truly empowers us to say to filmmakers, go do your thing. We are here to make sure that you are making your version of your movie because that’s what the audience wants to see.”

Three of its six features released in 2002 were the French comedy “8 Women” by François Ozon, the period drama “Far from Heaven” by Todd Haynes and the Holocaust film “The Pianist” by Roman Polanski. “Pianist” upset three major categories for best actor (Adrien Brody), adapted screenplay and director. The secret was out on the “new kid” on the Hollywood block, and everyone needed to pay attention. Focus forged ahead into the moviemaking landscape with bold tenacity, hitting several cultural milestones.

The impact of Focus would become even more significant when the company released the romantic cowboy drama “Brokeback Mountain” with Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal. After premiering at the Venice Film Festival and later opening in December 2005, the film received universal acclaim and grossed over $178 million worldwide from a modest $14 million budget. It was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning three but losing the top prize to racial drama “Crash,” considered one of the biggest upsets in Oscar history.

However, Focus has created more milestones than its 2006 ceremony loss.

Eighteen women-directed films have been nominated for best picture in 94 years. Focus is behind three of them, the most of any studio. In addition, Focus is also responsible for getting the first American woman nominated for best director (Sofia Coppola for “Lost in Translation”), the instance of more than one Black producer nominated for best picture (“BlacKkKlansman” with Spike Lee and Jordan Peele), and the first Latino winner for original song (Jorge Drexler for “Al otro lado del rio” from “The Motorcycle Diaries”).

They’ve been behind accomplished and respected actors getting statuettes such as Christopher Plummer (supporting actor for “Beginners”), Rachel Weisz (supporting actress for “The Constant Gardener”), Gary Oldman (best actor for “Darkest Hour”) and Alicia Vikander (supporting actress for “The Danish Girl”).

There’s still more to come. They’ve already turned a few heads with Robert Eggers’ Viking epic “The Northman” and the Cannes stunner “The Silent Twins” with Letitia Wright. They’ll be bringing us the latest from acclaimed filmmaker Todd Field with “TÁR” starring Cate Blanchett later this year before their 2023 and beyond unleashes with the latest from Wes Anderson (“Asteroid City”) and an Ethan Coen solo directing project.

As for the next 20 years, Kujawski says “we’re getting better. As more films get made, audiences are receptive to broader ideas and genres. We’ve been the beneficiary of that, to find filmmakers, support them, empower them and sell things assertively and aggressively. With this list of the 30 best movies you’re creating, I hope we can fill a list of 100.”

Read Variety’s list of the best Focus Feature films below, along with the best scene from each selection.

Honorable mentions: “The Beguiled” (2017); “Boy Erased” (2018); “Dallas Buyers Club” (2013);  “Mary Queen of Scots” (2018); “Nocturnal Animals” (2016); “The Place Beyond the Pines” (2013); “Pride and Prejudice” (2005); “A Serious Man” (2009); “Sin Nombre” (2009); “The Theory of Everything” (2014)

  • ParaNorman (2012)

    Starring: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, Elaine Stritch, Bernard Hill, Jodelle Ferland, Tempest Bledsoe, Alex Borstein, John Goodman

    Director(s): Sam Fell, Chris Butler
    Writer(s): Chris Butler
    Producer(s): Arianne Sutner, Travis Knight

    Synopsis: A misunderstood boy takes on ghosts, zombies and grown-ups to save his town from a centuries-old curse.

    The scene that proves it: “Zombie hit and run”

    Before Kodi Smit-McPhee was putting a cigarette in Benedict Cumberbatch’s mouth in “The Power of the Dog” (2021), his early days were filled with gems such as “The Road,” “Let Me In” and his voice work in this Sam Fell-Chris Butler animated comedy. It’s what paved the way for Laika to deliver us “Kubo and the Two Strings,” and for that, we are eternally grateful.

  • Atomic Blonde (2017)

    Starring: Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, John Goodman, Til Schweiger, Eddie Marsan, Sofia Boutella, Roland Møller, Toby Jones

    Director(s): David Leitch
    Writer(s): Kurt Johnstad (based on “The Coldest City” by Antony Johnson, Sam Hart)
    Producer(s): Charlize Theron, Beth Kono, A.J. Dix, Kelly McCormick, Eric Gitter, Peter Schwerin

    Synopsis: An undercover MI6 agent is sent to Berlin during the Cold War to investigate the murder of a fellow agent and recover a missing list of double agents.

    The scene that proves it: The apartment fight

    An action film to be studied and remembered, Charlize Theron kicks all types of ass in David Leitch’s stylistic thriller. This is another instance of the world not acknowledging Theron as one of our great action stars, on a resume that includes “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “Aeon Flux.” In addition, her expert qualities as a producer are on full display yet again, just another instance of her magic touch.

  • The Way I See It (2020)

    Starring: Pete Souza

    Director(s): Dawn Porter
    Writer(s): Dawn Porter
    Producer(s): Dawn Porter, Laura Dern, Evan Hayes, Jayme Lemons

    Synopsis: Former Chief Official White House Photographer Pete Souza’s journey as a person with top secret clearance and total access to the President.

    The scene that proves it: Talking about inauguration day.

    You don’t know what you got until it’s gone. That’s the essential theme of Dawn Porter’s pictorial homage to the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, as told through photos taken by Pete Souza. With humanity and grace, she gives those of us who were suffering through the Trump presidency the will to hang on and see that better days are upon us. The jury is still out on that one.

  • Tully (2018)

    Starring: Charlize Theron, Mackenzie Davis, Ron Livingston, Mark Duplass

    Director(s): Jason Reitman
    Writer(s): Diablo Cody
    Producer(s): Aaron L. Gilbert, Jason Reitman, Helen Estabrook, Diablo Cody, Mason Novick, Charlize Theron, A.J. Dix, Beth Kono

    Synopsis: A struggling mother of three forms an unexpected bond with the night nanny hired to help with her newborn baby.

    The scene that proves it: Revealing the real Tully.

    “Tully” examines motherhood with a refreshing veneration, thanks to the raw and honest screenplay by Oscar winner Diablo Cody (“Juno”) a brave performance by Charlize Theron, who also serves as the film’s producer. One of the strongest directorial outings for Jason Reitman in his career, we should hope for more attempts at uncomfortable yet authentic depictions of postpartum and parenthood.

  • Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

    Starring: Jared Gilman, Kara Hayward, Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, Bob Balaban, Harvey Keitel, Eric Chase Anderson, Neal Huff, Marianna Bassham, Larry Pine

    Director(s): Wes Anderson
    Writer(s): Wes Anderson, Roman Coppola
    Producer(s): Wes Anderson, Jeremy Dawson, Steven Rales, Scott Rudin

    Synopsis: A pair of young lovers flee their New England town, which causes a local search party to fan out to find them.

    The scene that proves it: “What kind of bird are you?”

    With young love, boy scouts and a sensational cast of characters, “Moonrise Kingdom” isn’t just about Anderson’s signature quirks. It’s about the inadequacies we can place upon ourselves, and the ability to push through it, unrehearsed and with intellectual rigor. And, it’s a comedy. How about that?

  • 21 Grams (2003)

    Starring: Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Naomi Watts, Danny Huston, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Melissa Leo

    Director(s): Alejandro González Iñárritu
    Writer(s): Guillermo Arriaga, Alejandro González Iñárritu
    Producer(s): Alejandro González Iñárritu, Robert Salerno

    Synopsis: A freak accident brings together a critically ill mathematician, a grieving mother, and a born-again ex-con.

    The scene that proves it: “This is hell.”

    Oscar nominees Naomi Watts and Benicio del Toro are ferocious in Alejandro González Iñárritu’s visceral drama about loss and revenge. This served as one of two acclaimed performances from Sean Penn in 2003, who also had “Mystic River,” for which he won best actor. If you allow the film to penetrate your cinematic psyche, you may find yourself in store for an unforgettable experience.

  • Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (2018)

    Starring: Fred Rogers, François Clemmons, Yo-Yo Ma, Joe Negri, David Newell, Tom Junod, Joanne Rogers

    Director(s): Morgan Neville
    Writer(s): Morgan Neville
    Producer(s): Morgan Neville, Caryn Capotosto, Nicholas Ma

    Synopsis: An exploration of the life, lessons, and legacy of iconic children’s television host Fred Rogers.

    The scene that proves it: “I love you just the way you are.”

    The legacy of the documentary that focuses on TV star Fred Rogers is most remembered for being snubbed at the Oscars, alongside “Three Identical Strangers” from Neon. Taking the reins of the popular figure is legendary filmmaker Morgan Neville, an Oscar-winner for “20 Feet From Stardom” (2013). However, the portrait became the highest-grossing biographical doc of all time.

  • Coraline (2009)

    Starring: Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David, Ian McShane

    Director(s): Henry Selick
    Writer(s): Henry Selick (based on “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman)
    Producer(s): Bill Mechanic, Claire Jennings, Henry Selick, Mary Sandell

    Synopsis: An adventurous 11-year-old girl finds another world that is a strangely idealized version of her frustrating home, but it has sinister secrets.

    The scene that proves it: “Mango milkshake.”

    Henry Selick’s classic animated film offers a whimsical delight for viewers with its dark humor and button-eyes. Most precious are the voice performances, notably from Dakota Fanning and Teri Hatcher, who shines brightly in a long list of splendid voiceover undertakings.

  • Burn After Reading (2007)

    Starring: George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Brad Pitt, John Malkovich, Tilda Swinton, Richard Jenkins

    Director(s): Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
    Writer(s): Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
    Producer(s): Joel Coen, Ethan Coen

    Synopsis: A disk containing mysterious information from a CIA agent ends up in the hands of two unscrupulous and daft gym employees who attempt to sell it.

    The scene that proves it: Calling Osborne Cox.

    One of the films that grew exponentially with the grace of time, the Coen Brothers’ zany romp is highbrow comedy put on blast with Oscar winner Emmanuel Lubezki steering the camera and Carter Burwell offering one of his most daring music compositions. At the center are an endless treasure of one-liners and the funniest performance that Brad Pitt has ever bestowed on the world. Bar none.

  • The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)

    Starring: Gael García Bernal, Rodrigo de la Serna, Mía Maestro

    Director(s): Walter Salles
    Writer(s): José Rivera (based on “The Motorcycle Diaries” by Che Guevara)
    Producer(s): Edgard Tenenbaum, Michael Nozik, Karen Tenkhoff

    Synopsis: The dramatization of a motorcycle road trip Che Guevara went on in his youth, which showed him his life’s calling.

    The scene that proves it: “So we had to leave our son with our family and hit the road.”

    Many different filmmakers and actors have interpreted Che Guevara. However, Walter Salles’ beloved adventure classic displays a pair of enriching performances from Gael García Bernal and Rodrigo de la Serna. With a nom for adapted screenplay, and a surprise win for original song (from Jorge Drexler, the first Latino ever to win the category), its place in history will continue to be revisited, and found, by the most curious cinematic minds.

  • Belfast (2021)

    Starring: Jude Hill, Caitríona Balfe, Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Ciarán Hinds, Colin Morgan, Josie Walker

    Director(s): Kenneth Branagh
    Writer(s): Kenneth Branagh
    Producer(s): Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik, Tamar Thomas

    Synopsis: A young boy and his working-class Belfast family experience the tumultuous late 1960s.

    The scene that proves it: “Everlasting love.”

    The most recent entry on the list, Kenneth Branagh invites the world into his childhood in Belfast, Ireland with his career-topping directorial effort. Through a monochrome lens, we see a tender portrait of family and sacrifice, with bits of heartwarming musical numbers. Most impressive is his trust for his cast, notably Caitríona Balfe, Jamie Dornan and newcomer Jude Hill, who honor his family’s memory with reverence and pride. The film won Branagh his overdue Oscar for best original screenplay.

  • Milk (2008)

    Starring: Sean Penn, Emile Hirsch, Josh Brolin, Diego Luna, James Franco

    Director(s): Gus Van Sant
    Writer(s): Dustin Lance Black
    Producer(s): Dan Jinks, Bruce Cohen

    Synopsis: The story of Harvey Milk and his struggles as an American gay activist who fought for gay rights and became California’s first openly gay elected official.

    The scene that proves it: Harvey debates Senator Briggs.

    The presence of “Milk” is vital in cinema’s history books, in which Sean Penn manages to top his Oscar-winning role in “Mystic River” with the gentle and hopeful spirit of Harvey Milk in Gus Van Sant’s biopic. An original screenplay winner for Dustin Lance Black, the film institutes a portrait of what the world of politics lost on Nov. 27, 1978. A heartbreaking recreation with Harris Savides behind the camera, “Milk” offers terror, devastation and faith that we can one day have an equal future.

  • Beginners (2010)

    Starring: Ewan McGregor, Christopher Plummer, Mélanie Laurent, Goran Višnjić

    Director(s): Mike Mills
    Writer(s): Mike Mills
    Producer(s): Leslie Urdang, Dean Vanech, Miranda de Pencier, Lars Knudsen, Jay Van Hoy

    Synopsis: A young man is rocked by two announcements from his elderly father: that he has terminal cancer and that he has a young male lover.

    The scene that proves it: “Gay pride.”

    Some in the film community thought watching Christopher Plummer land his first Oscar nom for “The Last Station” (2010) was a one-time occurrence in order to reward him for a honorable career. Fast forward to Mike Mills’ dramedy about a man (Ewan McGregor) who has his world rocked by the announcement of his elderly father’s (Plummer) terminal cancer diagnosis and coming out. It represents the type of characters and portraits that can still be captured by a veteran actor such as Plummer if they are sought out from new, creative voices.

  • Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020)

    Starring: Sidney Flanigan, Talia Ryder, Théodore Pellerin, Ryan Eggold, Sharon Van Etten

    Director(s): Eliza Hittman
    Writer(s): Eliza Hittman
    Producer(s): Adele Romanski, Sara Murphy

    Synopsis: A pair of teenage girls in rural Pennsylvania travel to New York City to seek out medical help after an unintended pregnancy.

    The scene that proves it: “Never? Rarely? Sometimes? Always?”

    Moving and even more powerful after the overturn of Roe v. Wade, Eliza Hittman’s third directorial outing after “Beach Rats” (2017) and “It Felt Like Love” (2013) showcases confidence in portraying a difficult subject. And, the film unleashes newfound treasures with actors Sidney Flanigan and Talia Ryder.

  • The Kids Are All Right (2010)

    Starring: Annette Bening, Julianne Moore, Mark Ruffalo, Mia Wasikowska, Josh Hutcherson

    Director(s): Lisa Cholodenko
    Writer(s): Lisa Cholodenko, Stuart Blumberg
    Producer(s): Gary Gilbert, Jeffrey Levy-Hinte, Celine Rattray, Jordan Horowitz, Daniela Taplin Lundberg, Philippe Hellmann, Joel Newton

    Synopsis: Two children conceived by artificial insemination bring their biological father into their non-traditional family life.

    The scene that proves it: “I need to say something.”

    Every so often, a movie comes along that gives actors a chance to explore untapped potential and uncovered gifts. “The Kids Are All Right” does that for Oscar nominee Annette Bening and the sadly overlooked Julianne Moore. The once-innocent curiosity of two children trying to locate their donor father (played effortlessly by Mark Ruffalo in his first nominated turn), instead focuses on the complicated nature of love and what it means to be a partner.

  • The Constant Gardener (2005)

    Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz, Danny Huston, Bill Nighy, Pete Postlethwaite

    Director(s): Fernando Meirelles
    Writer(s): Jeffrey Caine (based on “The Constant Gardener” by John le Carré)
    Producer(s): Simon Channing Williams

    Synopsis: A widower is determined to get to the bottom of a potentially explosive secret involving his wife’s murder, big business, and corporate corruption.

    The scene that proves it: “Justin discovers Tessa’s letter.”

    Coming off “City of God” (2003), Fernando Meirelles orchestrates an eloquent thriller with the criminally undervalued Ralph Fiennes (still not nominated since 1997’s “The English Patient”) and Oscar winner Rachel Weisz. Elevating Jeffrey Caine’s taut script is tension-building framework by César Charlone and heartfelt transitions by Claire Simpson.

  • Promising Young Woman (2020)

    Starring: Carey Mulligan, Bo Burnham, Alison Brie, Clancy Brown, Jennifer Coolidge, Laverne Cox, Connie Britton

    Director(s): Emerald Fennell
    Writer(s): Emerald Fennell
    Producer(s): Margot Robbie, Josey McNamara, Tom Ackerley, Ben Browning, Ashley Fox, Emerald Fennell

    Synopsis: A young woman, traumatized by a tragic event in her past, seeks out vengeance against those who crossed her path.

    The scene that proves it: “Are you going to hurt me?”

    It was “the movie of the moment” when the revenge-thriller, written, produced and directed by Emerald Fennell, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Steered beautifully by Carey Mulligan’s sensational turn that finally landed her a second Oscar nom after “An Education” (2009), the film lays out interesting questions for the viewer to percolate. Nothing is more memorable, however, than the ignored performances by Bo Burnham and one-scene wonder of Alfred Molina.

  • Phantom Thread (2017)

    Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Lesley Manville, Vicky Krieps

    Director(s): Paul Thomas Anderson
    Writer(s): Paul Thomas Anderson
    Producer(s): JoAnne Sellar, Paul Thomas Anderson, Megan Ellison, Daniel Lupi

    Synopsis: Set in 1950s London, Reynolds Woodcock is a renowned dressmaker whose fastidious life is disrupted by a young, strong-willed woman, Alma, who becomes his muse and lover.

    The scene that proves it: “Don’t pick a fight.”

    Labeled as Daniel Day-Lewis’ final film performance, Paul Thomas Anderson’s look at the fashion designer shows a more reserved outing for the three-time Oscar winner. The story gives as much power to its female characters, with Vicky Krieps in an outstanding breakout role and Lesley Manville finally getting her moment in the awards spotlight as a nominee for supporting actress.

  • In Bruges (2007)

    Starring: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes, Clémence Poésy, Jérémie Renier

    Director(s): Martin McDonagh
    Writer(s): Martin McDonagh
    Producer(s): Graham Broadbent, Peter Czernin

    Synopsis: Guilt-stricken after a job gone wrong, hitman Ray and his partner await orders from their ruthless boss in Bruges, Belgium, the last place in the world Ray wants to be.

    The scene that proves it: “You’re gonna kill me.”

    “In Bruges” is a gentle reminder to Hollywood that Colin Farrell can act. We’ve become accustomed to seeing him in genre flicks and maniacal roles, but his nervous ticks and outstanding chemistry with Brendan Gleeson make this one to remember. It also stands tall as Martin McDonagh’s best writing effort of his career (yet).

  • The Pianist (2002)

    Starring: Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann, Frank Finlay, Maureen Lipman, Emilia Fox, Ed Stoppard, Julia Rayner, Jessica Kate Meyer

    Director(s): Roman Polanski
    Writer(s): Ronald Harwood (based on “The Pianist” by Wladyslaw Szpilman)
    Producer(s): Roman Polanski, Robert Benmussa, Alain Sarde

    Synopsis: A Polish Jewish musician struggles to survive the destruction of the Warsaw ghetto of World War II.

    The scene that proves it: Getting taken off the train line.

    Though “The Pianist” was directed by one of the most problematic figures in film (Roman Polanski, who became a fugitive after being convicted of rape in the 1970s) and gave one of the cringiest Oscar-winning moments (Adrien Brody kissing presenter Halle Berry), the film still packs a punch with its harrowing true story of survival. It nearly beat best picture winner “Chicago” after taking home three major statuettes.

  • Loving (2016)

    Starring: Joel Edgerton, Ruth Negga, Marton Csokas, Nick Kroll, Michael Shannon

    Director(s): Jeff Nichols
    Writer(s): Jeff Nichols (based on “The Loving Story” by Nancy Buirski)
    Producer(s): Ged Doherty, Colin Firth, Nancy Buirski, Sarah Green, Marc Turtletaub, Peter Saraf

    Synopsis: The story of Richard and Mildred Loving, a couple whose arrest for interracial marriage in 1960s Virginia began a legal battle that would end with the Supreme Court’s historic 1967 decision.

    The scene that proves it: “Tell the judge I love my wife.”

    As one of the most raw and talented American directors working, Jeff Nichols brushed the canvas of cinema with signature films “Take Shelter” and “Mud.” But with biopic “Loving,” he chose the understated realm, slivering analogies of life and love into the two lead performances by Joel Edgerton and the Oscar-nominated Ruth Negga. One must appreciate the scale in which he finely tunes the story, as it could have easily become an over-the-top retelling.

  • BlacKkKlansman (2018)

    Starring: John David Washington, Adam Driver, Laura Harrier, Topher Grace

    Director(s): Spike Lee
    Writer(s): Charlie Wachtel, David Rabinowitz, Kevin Willmott, Spike Lee (based on “Black Klansman” by Ron Stallworth)
    Producer(s): Jason Blum, Spike Lee, Raymond Mansfield, Sean McKittrick, Jordan Peele, Shaun Redick

    Synopsis: Ron Stallworth, an African American police officer from Colorado Springs, CO, successfully manages to infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan branch with the help of a Jewish surrogate who eventually becomes its leader. Based on actual events.

    The scene that proves it: “This is Ron Stallworth calling…”

    After being passed over for “Do the Right Thing” (1989), Spike Lee was cherished by the film world but we had accepted that we may never see him standing on a stage with an Oscar in hand. Guiding John David Washington and Adam Driver in the true story of the first Black police officer in the Colorado Springs Police Department, Lee’s timely script — co-written by Charlie Wachtel, David Rabinowitz and Kevin Willmott — won the Oscar, causing him to jump into presenter Samuel L. Jackson’s arms on stage.

  • Lost in Translation (2002)

    Starring: Bill Murray, Scarlett Johansson, Giovanni Ribisi, Anna Faris, Fumihiro Hayashi

    Director(s): Sofia Coppola
    Writer(s): Sofia Coppola
    Producer(s): Ross Katz, Sofia Coppola

    Synopsis: A faded movie star and a neglected young woman form an unlikely bond after crossing paths in Tokyo.

    The scene that proves it: A secret goodbye.

    Sofia Coppola sits in the history books as the first American woman nominated for best director, as well as the first woman nominated for picture, director and screenplay. The Bill Murray vehicle that landed him his sole Oscar nom for best actor also displayed the elegance and persistence of Scarlett Johansson. Despite a BAFTA win in lead actress, the category confusion for supporting had her on the outside looking in. But that doesn’t take away from the film’s charming quirks.

  • Lust, Caution (2007)

    Starring: Tony Leung, Tang Wei, Anupam Kher, Joan Chen, Wang Leehom, Shyam Pathak

    Director(s): Ang Lee
    Writer(s): Hui-Ling Wang, James Schamus (based on “Lust, Caution” by Eileen Chang
    Producer(s): Ang Lee, William Kong, James Schamus

    Synopsis: During the World War II era, a young woman, Wang Jiazhi, gets swept up in a dangerous game of emotional intrigue with a powerful political figure, Mr. Yee.

    The scene that proves it: The assassination attempt at the jewelry store.

    A former writing colleague used to tell me the only reason to explain Tang Wei’s omission from the best actress race in 2007 for “Lust, Caution” is that voters didn’t see it. There’s much truth to that, considering the less-than-inspired lineup we were dealt at the time, but the movie does offer more than Wei’s fierce turn. Most notably, the costumes by Lai Pan, score by Alexandre Desplat and cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto. Sadly, all of these elements were shut out of the Oscars.

  • Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)

    Starring: Charlize Theron, Art Parkinson, Ralph Fiennes, Rooney Mara, George Takei, Matthew McConaughey

    Director(s): Travis Knight
    Writer(s): Marc Haimed, Chris Butler, Shannon Tindle
    Producer(s): Arianne Sutner, Travis Knight

    Synopsis: A young boy named Kubo must locate a magical suit of armor worn by his late father in order to defeat a vengeful spirit from the past.

    The scene that proves it: “If you must blink, do it now.”

    The breathtaking stop-motion of Travis Knight’s directorial debut is the best outing of any of Focus’ co-productions and distributions with Laika. Making history as the second animated feature to be Oscar-nominated for visual effects (after 1993’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas”), the film’s real superpower is its rich narrative storytelling. Instead of relying on cutesy animal characters to sell toys, its concentration is taking the viewer on an illuminating journey through culture and life.

  • Atonement (2007)

    Starring: James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, Romola Garai, Saoirse Ronan, Vanessa Redgrave

    Director(s): Joe Wright
    Writer(s): Christopher Hampton (based on “Atonement” by Ian McEwan)
    Producer(s): Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Paul Webster

    Synopsis: Thirteen-year-old fledgling writer Briony Tallis irrevocably changes the course of several lives when she accuses her older sister’s lover of a crime he did not commit.

    The scene that proves it: Walking through Dunkirk.

    Joe Wright’s epic love story brings an all-star artisans assembly including Seamus McGarvey’s gorgeous camera work and the most memorable green dress of the decade by Jacqueline Durran. Though it mustered only one Oscar win for Dario Marianelli’s sonorous score, awards enthusiasts got to enjoy the first of multiple acting noms from a young Saoirse Ronan, who should have been accompanied by her co-stars James McAvoy, Keira Knightley and Vanessa Redgrave.

  • Pariah (2011)

    Starring: Adepero Oduye, Kim Wayans, Aasha Davis

    Director(s): Dee Rees
    Writer(s): Dee Rees
    Producer(s): Nekisa Cooper

    Synopsis: A Brooklyn teenager juggles conflicting identities and risks friendship, heartbreak and family in a desperate search for sexual expression.

    The scene that proves it: “This isn’t me.”

    When Dee Rees’ coming-of-age drama “Pariah” was released, it sent seismic shockwaves through the independent film community. The movie includes a star-making performance from Adepero Oduye, who was 33 portraying a 17-year-old coming to terms with her sexuality. There’s no need to expand your imagination to make the film believable, especially with cinematography from Bradford Young and adept editing by Mako Kamitsuna.

  • Far from Heaven (2002)

    Starring: Julianne Moore, Dennis Quaid, Dennis Haysbert, Patricia Clarkson

    Director(s): Todd Haynes
    Writer(s): Todd Haynes
    Producer(s): Jody Allen, Christine Vachon

    Synopsis: In 1950s Connecticut, a flustered housewife faces a marital crisis and mounting racial tensions in the outside world.

    The scene that proves it: Frank confesses to Cathy.

    Stylish, romantic and emotional, Todd Haynes’ skillfully calculated period drama boasts an incredible performance from Julianne Moore (who was double-nominated that year along with her supporting actress turn for “The Hours”). While many recall the shocking snub of Dennis Quaid, Patricia Clarkson and Dennis Haysbert were also omitted from their respective categories. Luscious sets and cinematography encompass a dream-like wonder that’s still as relevant today.

  • Brokeback Mountain (2005)

    Starring: Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Williams, Linda Cardellini, Anne Hathaway, Anna Faris, Randy Quaid

    Director(s): Ang Lee
    Writer(s): Larry McMurtry, Diana Ossana (based on “Brokeback Mountain” by Annie Proulx)
    Producer(s): Diana Ossana, James Schamus

    Synopsis: Ennis and Jack are two shepherds who develop a sexual and emotional relationship. Their relationship becomes complicated when both of them get married to their respective girlfriends.

    The scene that proves it: “You sleeping on your feet…”

    An epic western with a heartfelt twist, Ang Lee’s cowboy drama pushed the boundaries of cinema and represented the LGBTQ community in a significant manner back in 2005. Anchored by the splendid turns of Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal and Michelle Williams, the film walked away with three Oscars, including best director – but not best picture, in a stunning upset to “Crash.” Nonetheless, the film stands tall and cherished in the cinematic community.

  • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

    Starring: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, Mark Ruffalo, Elijah Wood, Tom Wilkinson

    Director(s): Michel Gondry
    Writer(s): Charlie Kaufman, Michel Gondry, Pierre Bismuth
    Producer(s): Steve Golin, Anthony Bregman

    Synopsis: When their relationship turns sour, a couple undergoes a medical procedure to have each other erased from their memories.

    The scene that proves it: “Meet me in Montauk.”

    One of the greatest love stories ever created, the masterful film features career-best performances from Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, with Winslet earning her fourth Oscar nom. An original and beautifully constructed story, the movie won an overdue screenplay Oscar for Charlie Kaufman (“Being John Malkovich” and “Adaptation”). The March release may have doomed its chances in other categories, exemplified by its snub for best picture, director, actor, cinematography, editing, visual effects and original score.

Read More About:

Jump to Comments

More from Variety

Most Popular

Must Read

Sign Up for Variety Newsletters

By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy.We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services. // This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Variety Confidential

A Variety and iHeartRadio Podcast

ncG1vNJzZmiukae2psDYZ5qopV%2BhtrTA0miZnqukYrOwr9SsZJ%2BdkanCs7HSZqSorpmawG6%2BwKeinpxf