A wave of groundbreaking performances and compelling stories has made this year’s Oscar race one of the most diverse yet. Here’s your ultimate streaming guide to catch these must-watch films before the Academy Awards ceremony on March 2.
The magical transformation that’s making history
Breaking barriers on the yellow brick road
“Wicked” has captivated audiences with its fresh take on the classic Oz tale, earning 10 Oscar nominations. Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba brings new depth to the misunderstood witch, potentially making her the third Black woman to win Best Actress. The film masterfully weaves themes of prejudice and self-acceptance into its dazzling musical numbers.
Stream it now on Peacock, Amazon Prime, or Apple TV to witness this groundbreaking performance before Oscar night.
A haunting story that demands to be seen
When justice meets tragedy
Based on true events, “Nickel Boys” transforms Colson Whitehead’s searing novel into a powerful cinematic experience. The film follows young Elwood Curtis through the harsh realities of a Jim Crow-era reform school, delivering a masterclass in storytelling that earned it Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay nominations.
This unflinching look at systemic racism and resilience is streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple TV, offering a sobering reminder of our not-so-distant past.
The prison drama everyone’s talking about
From behind bars to potential Oscar gold
“Sing Sing” marks a career-defining moment for Colman Domingo, whose raw portrayal of a wrongfully imprisoned man has earned widespread acclaim. The film’s innovative blend of professional actors and former inmates creates an authenticity that sets it apart from traditional prison dramas.
Catch this double-nominated powerhouse on Amazon Prime or Apple TV to see why critics are calling it one of the year’s best performances.
An epic reimagining with representation at its core
Desert power meets diversity
While “Dune: Part Two” continues to dominate the technical categories with its 10 nominations, the film’s diverse ensemble cast helps ground its otherworldly narrative in universal themes of power, identity, and survival.
Experience this visually stunning epic on Netflix or Max to understand why it’s captured audiences worldwide.
The controversial contender stirring debate
Music, crime, and identity collide
Leading the pack with 13 nominations, “Emilia Pérez” has become one of award season’s most talked-about films. This genre-bending musical crime drama showcases Zoe Saldana’s scene-stealing supporting performance, though recent controversies have somewhat overshadowed its achievements.
Netflix subscribers can stream this boundary-pushing film exclusively on the platform.
Why this matters
This year’s Oscar nominations reflect a shifting landscape in Hollywood, where Black stories and performers are increasingly claiming their rightful place in prestigious categories. These films don’t just entertain – they challenge perspectives, celebrate diversity, and prove that authentic storytelling resonates with audiences and critics alike.
From Erivo’s groundbreaking turn in “Wicked” to Domingo’s powerful work in “Sing Sing,” these performances remind us that representation isn’t just about filling quotas – it’s about enriching cinema with voices and experiences that make our cultural landscape more vibrant and truthful.
As we approach Oscar night, catching these films isn’t just about staying current with award season buzz – it’s about supporting a more inclusive future for filmmaking. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a dedicated cinephile, these nominations represent some of the year’s most compelling storytelling.
Remember to set your reminders for March 2, when we’ll see which of these remarkable films will take home the gold. In the meantime, grab your popcorn and start streaming – these stories deserve your attention.
