Happy Oscars Season! As a self-proclaimed pretentious film nerd, awards season is like “The Hunger Games” for me. So, I’ve made my predictions for the Best Picture winner, and may the odds be ever in their favor. 

I love Elle Fanning as much as the next person, but “Sentimental Value” was really not for me. Maybe it’s a film I have to revisit later in life, but I was bored, and to be completely honest, I fell asleep several times. It didn’t stand out to me.

I am Timothee Chalamet’s #1 fan, and no one competes with me on that. “Marty Supreme” was good, objectively, and I thought Chalamet’s performance was unforgettable, but I hate watching movies that simply revolve around a narcissistic man. However, considering the great reviews and press it got, I think it has a chance of winning.

“Train Dreams” tells a beautiful story about the wonders of life, love and loss. Objectively a great and impactful movie, but not my type of film, and also not the film I picture winning this award. 

This is also how I feel about “The Secret Agent,” a gripping and suspenseful Brazilian film about military dictatorship. Unfortunately, this movie was difficult for me to follow and I spent most of the time confused simply because I know nothing about Brazilian political history. 

“Bugonia” features Emma Stone, playing the CEO of a major company who is kidnapped by two conspiracy theorists who suspect her to be an alien, trying to end all of humanity. The cinematography choices in this movie were top notch, and the wonderfully suspenseful score was immersive. I was scared I would be kidnapped next for alien allegations. “Bugonia” was by far my most favorite watch of 2025, although I don’t think it will go home with the most prized award. However, I’m manifesting that Stone goes home with the win for Best Actress! 

Brad Pitt + cars + narcissism = “F1” This film is pretty self explanatory–a burnt out, semi-retired race car driver (Brad Pitt) returns to racing to help out his friend’s Formula 1 team. Was I convinced that I could become a successful F1 driver due to an ability to make better decisions than every single man in this movie? Yes. However, again, I am not a fan of male-centered movies, so this was not one of my favorites nor do I think it will win Best Picture. 

Guillermo Del Toro’s “Frankenstein” was truly astounding. But I have to say, I am shocked a Netflix book adaptation got a Best Picture nomination. Although fantastic, it was nowhere near my favorite, most likely due to an unwavering love for Mary Shelley’s novel. 

Since “One Battle After Another” swept at the Golden Globes, I think it has a good chance of winning. I enjoyed it, although it did take me a while to get into. But, if this wins the big one, I won’t be shocked nor upset. 

“Sinners” has a record-breaking number of nominations (16 to be exact). This film follows two twin brothers who visit their hometown in 1930s Mississippi, only to be met with supernatural evils. As an English nerd, the symbolism in this film truly made my heart happy and it was so refreshing to see a Hollywood movie with deep cultural significance. This film is my prediction for runner up. 

Chloe Zhao, the woman that you are! “Hamnet” made me laugh, smile and uncontrollably sob. The script was written with beautiful prose, the cinematography was jaw dropping and immersive and the acting was unbelievably human and raw. This film changed my life and ruined it at the exact same time. Hamlet, I absolutely adore you, and I hope and pray that “Hamnet” wins Best Picture in honor of you, Agnes and Will.