Comprehensive Guide to the Oscars: Notable Names from Anora to Disqualified Hans Zimmer

This year’s Oscars are easy to understand by going through them alphabetically, highlighting some of the standout films and performers.

Starting with “A,” we have “Anora.” This film has gained a lot of attention and has been compared to “Pretty Woman.” It follows the life of a young sex worker who falls for a wealthy man, the son of a Russian oligarch. It is one of the top nominees for Best Picture, with Mikey Madison, just 25, nominated for Best Actress.

Next, “B” is for “The Brutalist.” This film centers around a Hungarian architect, portrayed by Adrien Brody, and it is set in America after World War II. Although the film has received high praise, it has a lengthy runtime of three and a half hours. Brody is recognized for his performance and is up for Best Actor, while the film itself contends for Best Picture, having seen some success at the BAFTAs.

For “C,” there’s “Conclave,” a leading candidate for Best Picture that won at the BAFTAs. Based on a novel, this film shows the selection process of a new pope. Ralph Fiennes, famed for roles in “Schindler’s List” and “The English Patient,” portrays Cardinal Lawrence and has received his third Oscar nomination.

“D” stands for “Dune: Part 2,” featuring Timothée Chalamet returning as Paul Atreides. This epic film dives into themes of revenge and struggle for power while introducing a world filled with giant sandworms. It’s also a major contender in the award race.

Moving on to “E,” we get “Emilia Perez,” a Spanish musical set in Mexico. It tells the story of a drug lord’s journey of gender affirmation and has broken records with 13 Oscar nominations, including one for Karla Sofia Gascon, a trans actress vying for Best Actress. However, the film has faced critique for its portrayal of sensitive themes, which have ignited discussion.

Next is “F” for “Flow,” a visually stunning animation about a cat’s survival journey alongside unusual companions after being stranded on a boat. This film has brought Latvia its first Oscar nominations in both international and animated feature categories.

“G” represents “Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.” Fans of Britain’s beloved claymation duo are excited for their return to the Oscars after a long absence. This film, which sees the clever Gromit face off against a familiar foe, has also received two BAFTAs.

Then we have “H” for “I’m Still Here,” based on a true story of a mother striving to find truth in Brazil during a military regime. This film is nominated for three Oscars, including Best Actress for Fernanda Torres.

“I” is for “Inside Out 2,” which brings new emotions to the screen as Riley transitions into her teenage years. While it has had a tremendous box office performance, it faces stiff competition in the animation category.

“J” introduces Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan in “The Apprentice,” a biopic about Donald Trump’s early years that has drawn both controversy and nominations. Stan’s portrayal of Trump and Strong’s role as Roy Cohn have landed them acting nominations.

“K” features “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” noted for its visual effects. The competition in this category for animated films is intense, creating a buzz for the upcoming winners.

“L” is for Elton John’s song “Never Too Late” from his life’s documentary, marking yet another nomination for the music legend despite him missing out on his own charity event.

“M” highlights “Memoir of a Snail,” a bleak stop-motion animation exploring loneliness through its protagonist Grace and her snail pet.

“N” brings attention to “Nickel Boys,” which depicts disturbing realities faced by boys in a reform school during the 1960s, a haunting story that will resonate with viewers.

“O” is for Conan O’Brien taking on hosting duties this year in light of recent challenges California has faced, promising a thoughtful yet humorous approach in his hosting.

“P” features “A Real Pain,” a story about family history with Kieran Culkin shining in the supporting role.

“Q” touches on notable snubs in the nominations, including Daniel Craig for “Queer” and performances by Angelina Jolie and Marianne Jean-Baptiste that did not receive recognition.

“R” represents “Wild Robot,” featuring Lupita Nyong’o as Ris, a robot caring for an orphaned gosling in this moving tale.

“S” is about “Sing Sing,” a true story focusing on an art program at a New York prison, showcasing Colman Domingo’s impactful performance.

“T” highlights “The Substance,” a gripping narrative featuring Demi Moore dealing with the challenges of aging in Hollywood.

“U” discusses “Unknown,” Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Bob Dylan that could potentially overshadow his previous achievements.

“V” touches upon “Nosferatu,” the film that pays homage to classic horror, with Bill Skarsgard transforming into the iconic vampire character.

“W” is about “Wicked,” another adaptation based on “The Wizard of Oz,” aiming for Oscars in various categories.

“X” centers on the acclaimed songwriter Diane Warren, who has yet to win an Oscar despite numerous nominations.

“Y” features a cute short film titled “Yuck,” which humorously looks at childhood experiences and love through a boy’s perspective.

Finally, “Z” highlights Hans Zimmer, a two-time Oscar-winning composer who won’t be nominated this year due to eligibility issues surrounding his score for “Dune 2.”

The Oscars ceremony will take place on Sunday, so fans can look forward to an exciting evening!