Get ready for a lineup of award contenders that promise to entertain and inspire.
The start of a new year brings plenty of anticipation for what’s to come. There’s also the worry about what you might have missed from the year before.
In the realm of movies, it’s hard. Within the first few months of every year, there’s always talk about the films competing for the golden bald guy statue, aka the Oscars. The “prestige” films that “adults” watch and discuss with their “friends.”
It’s not a competition—watching movies should be fun. It’s one of the most enriching activities you can engage in without stepping out of your house or dealing with people you don’t like. And yet, Oscar season can feel overwhelming due to the perceived importance of certain films that everyone “must” see.
If you’re in a workplace or social circle that feels that way, don’t worry. We’ll catch you up to speed, particularly with these films that are 1) guaranteed to be in the awards conversation and 2) will be hitting Singaporean cinemas in the next few weeks. You have plenty of time.
Babylon
Lavish, operatic, and supremely entertaining.
One look at Babylon, and it’s already an enticing affair. It stars Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie, two Hollywood icons from different generations who never fail to command the attention of millions. Directed by Damien Chazelle, known for La La Land and Whiplash, this film features breakout performances from newer talents like Diego Calva and Li Jun Li, alongside familiar faces like Tobey Maguire and Jean Smart.
Babylon has the makings of both a box-office smash and a beloved prestige title. However, it centers on Hollywood—a tale that may not immediately draw in viewers of all ages. The film serves as an epic, multi-layered fable about Hollywood’s Golden Age and the transition from silent films to “talkies.”
Rest assured, Babylon is a hugely entertaining watch. The film kicks off with an outrageous mansion party that makes the antics in The Wolf of Wall Street look tame. We follow Manny (Diego Calva), an aspiring filmmaker taking odd jobs in Hollywood to make valuable connections, and Nellie (Margot Robbie), an up-and-coming actress.
Over the course of its three hours, Babylon presents a story filled with success and tragedy, much like any film about Hollywood. It’s an absorbing love letter to the past, though not all characters will meet a happy end. This film deserves to be seen on the big screen—its party sequences alone justify the ticket price.
Release date: January 19 (with special sneak previews from January 14).
The Fabelmans
Tender, meditative, and ambitious.
There’s no question that Steven Spielberg is one of the greatest directors of modern times. With countless blockbuster classics under his belt, The Fabelmans emerges as a deeply personal, semi-autobiographical story that resonates with his audience.
The film explores Spielberg’s early years through the eyes of a fictional character, Sammy Fabelman, who navigates a loving yet dysfunctional family while discovering his passion for filmmaking. Paul Dano plays Sammy’s nurturing but rigid father, and Michelle Williams portrays his wife, who becomes intertwined in Sammy’s early cinematic adventures.
The Fabelmans begins with Sammy’s first trip to the movies, igniting his obsession for filmmaking. As he grows, Sammy faces various challenges, including his parents’ complicated relationship and the struggles of being a Jewish boy in 1950s America.
Seth Rogen, known for his comedic roles, plays a pivotal supporting character in this serious narrative.
Release date: February 9.
TÁR
Immersive, taut, and sinister.
When TÁR was released in American theatres, it sparked widespread discussion, with many questioning the existence of its protagonist, Lydia Tár. Cate Blanchett stars as the fiercely dedicated classical music conductor whose prestigious career begins to unravel under scrutiny.
TÁR masterfully explores the complexities of power and fame, delving into how they can distort one’s reality. The film illustrates Lydia’s ambition, talent, and the darker aspects of her character, challenging audiences to consider the intricacies of her rise and fall.
Expect a chilling and thought-provoking narrative, with surprising twists that keep you engaged.
Release date: January 26.
As the new year unfolds, it’s easy to get caught up in a packed work schedule. But taking the time to watch a movie can be a delightful escape. Mark these films to catch at your local cinema soon.
Also, here are a couple more films on the horizon:
Cocaine Bear (February 23): Based on a true story, this absurd comedy features a bear that ingests a bag of cocaine and goes on a rampage.
Scream VI (March 9): The iconic Ghostface killer returns, now targeting New York after decades of terrorizing the suburbs.
Renfield (April 13): Nicolas Cage stars as Dracula, while Nicholas Hoult plays his long-suffering assistant in this quirky tale.
The Oscars are just a starting point for exploring meaningful films. Watching movies is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend your time, so get out there and catch a show!
