Ranking Top 10 Best Picture Winners (2014-2024)
With the recent 96th Academy Awards ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles last March 10, 2024, Oppenheimer was the most-awarded movie, taking home 7 awards including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor. In this article, we will be ranking the Top 10 Best Picture winners (2014-2024). The Top 10 Best Picture winners list I've created is shaped by my own opinions and personal favorites. It's a subjective compilation, reflecting my tastes in cinema and what I believe to be the standout films among the Academy's selections for Best Picture. These choices are influenced by a mix of the films' artistic merit, the emotional impact they had on me, and their cultural significance as I perceive it. This list is essentially a snapshot of my cinematic preferences over a decade, showcasing the films that resonated with me the most and left a lasting impression.
10. Green Book (2018)
Universal Pictures
Renowned pianist Dr. Don Shirley, an African American, prepares for a musical tour across the southern United States in 1962. Seeking someone to drive him and provide security, he enlists the services of Tony Lip, a bouncer with a rugged demeanor from an Italian-American enclave in the Bronx. As they journey together, the pair form a surprising friendship, facing and challenging the prevailing racial prejudices and threats characteristic of the segregated period.
Green Book won the 2019 Best Picture award against Alfonso Cuarón’s Roma, a powerful and enthralling movie about social class through the lens of someone who’s usually presented as a background character. What is regarded by some as the weakest year for the cinema, Green Book is the lowest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes that ever won the Best Picture award in the last 10 years, with a rather mid-rating of 77%.
9. CODA (2020)
Apple TV+
CODA is a story about Ruby (portrayed by Emilia Jones), the only hearing person in her deaf family—a CODA, or child of deaf adults. She navigates daily life serving as an interpreter for her parents (played by Marlee Matlin and Troy Kotsur) and helping on the family's floundering fishing vessel with her dad and older sibling (Daniel Durant) before attending school. Ruby's world begins to change when she joins the choir at her high school and uncovers her talent for singing, especially as she grows closer to her singing partner, Miles (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo). Under the guidance of her passionate and demanding choir teacher (Eugenio Derbez), she is encouraged to audition for a renowned music college. Faced with this opportunity, Ruby is caught in a struggle between her dedication to her family and her aspirations to follow her own path.
CODA's triumph in securing the Best Picture award was an unexpected outcome. With The Power of the Dog having previously clinched the Best Picture titles at the BAFTA, Golden Globes, and Critics' Choice Awards, it was widely anticipated to be the frontrunner for the prestigious Best Picture category at the 94th Academy Awards. Nevertheless, the Academy's decision to give the honor to CODA came as a surprise to many. While CODA is a commendable film, some critics argue that it tends to resemble a film characteristic of a Hallmark movie.
8. Nomadland (2021)
Searchlight Pictures
Directed by Chloé Zhao, “Nomadland” is about a woman in her sixties who, after losing everything in the Great Recession, embarks on a journey through the American West, living as a van-dwelling modern-day nomad.
The film presents a considerable challenge for viewers to engage with because it lacks elements that the average person can easily connect with. At first glance, it's labeled as dull and tedious due to its slow pace. However, for those who appreciate a cinematic experience that delves deeply into character development and personal narratives, the film promises to be a deeply moving experience. Picture yourself accompanying a lone woman on her travels across the American West, armed with nothing but her own resilience. It's clear that such a storyline might not resonate with everyone, as it requires a certain taste for introspective and unhurried storytelling.
7. Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
A24
When a rupture between dimensions disrupts reality, an unlikely protagonist must harness her newfound abilities to combat strange and perplexing threats from across the multiverse, all while the destiny of the world hangs precariously in the balance.
The victory of "Everything Everywhere All At Once" in securing the Best Picture award came as a surprise to many, particularly given its classification within the Sci-fi genre. Despite facing formidable competition from contenders such as "The Banshees of Inisherin," "Tar," and "Women Talking," each possessing attributes of being a quiet and compelling movie that could have positioned them favorably for the award, the film's success signifies a significant shift in recognizing and appreciating the creativity, richness, and diversity of Asian storytelling. These achievements are significant for a hopeful trend toward increased representation of the Asian community. Additionally, the film's historic win saw Michelle Yeoh becoming the first Asian woman to claim the Best Actress accolade, marking a significant milestone in cinematic history.
6. The Shape of Water (2017)
Fox Searchlight
"The Shape of Water" is a film set in 1962 in Baltimore, where Elisa, a mute woman who feels isolated from the world, works as a janitor in a secretive government facility. Her mundane life takes a turn when she stumbles upon a classified experiment: a humanoid amphibian creature from the rivers of South America, held captive in a water tank. She communicates with it through sign language and music, and their connection grows into a unique romance. Meanwhile, the creature's existence is threatened by both Colonel Strickland, the ruthless government agent determined to exploit it for military advantage, and the ambitious scientist Dr. Robert Hoffstetler, who is under pressure to deliver results.
"The Shape of Water" received a mix of opinions, but it stands out for its beautiful portrayal of an unusual romance. It won Best Picture for its blend of fantasy, love, and historical drama. Sally Hawkins shines as Elisa, a mute cleaner who forms a special connection with a strange sea creature in a secret lab. Guillermo del Toro's direction is superb, creating a film that's both touching and thrilling, with music that adds magic to the fairy tale feel. This film is a creative and heartfelt story about finding love in unexpected places. Personally, “Lady Bird” was my choice for the Best Picture, but “The Shape of Water” is the clear front-runner because of its visual mastery and the unconventional depiction of a love story.
5. Oppenheimer (2023)
Universal Pictures
During World War II, Lt. Gen. Leslie Groves Jr. appoints physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer to work on the top-secret Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer and a team of scientists spend years developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work came to fruition on July 16, 1945, as they witnessed the world's first nuclear explosion, forever changing the course of history.
Unlike many of Nolan's previous films, 'Oppenheimer' is less about pyrotechnics and more about the character study at its heart. This dialogue-driven narrative creates a palpable tension that simmers throughout the film, giving it explosive energy even in the absence of literal explosions. This thoughtful approach elevates the film to a higher plane of storytelling, making Oppenheimer a richly rewarding cinematic experience. Uncharacteristic of Nolan's filmography, 'Oppenheimer' delivers its narrative through quiet nuances that demand the audience's attention and engagement.
4. Spotlight (2015)
Open Road Films
In 2001, editor Marty Baron of The Boston Globe assigned a team of journalists to investigate allegations against John Geoghan, an unfrocked priest accused of molesting more than 80 boys. Led by editor Walter "Robby" Robinson (Michael Keaton), reporters Michael Rezendes (Mark Ruffalo), Matt Carroll, and Sacha Pfeiffer interview victims and try to unseal sensitive documents. The reporters make it their mission to provide proof of a cover-up of sexual abuse within the Roman Catholic Church.
"Spotlight" truly stood out among its competition for the Oscar. Its storytelling was exceptional, with performances that were just spot-on, with Mark Ruffalo’s behavior nuanced and McAdams’s subtle range was impeccable. The movie tackled a sensitive subject matter delicately and never shied away from the strong questions about the failures and cover-ups of the Catholic Church. The film's portrayal of the investigative process was diligent and careful, and it delivered a powerful message about the importance of powerful journalism in the call for justice.
3. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)
Fox Searchlight
Former cinema superhero Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) is mounting an ambitious Broadway production that he hopes will breathe new life into his stagnant career. It's risky, but he hopes that his creative gamble will prove that he's a real artist and not just a washed-up movie star. As opening night approaches, a castmate is injured, forcing Riggan to hire an actor (Edward Norton) who is guaranteed to shake things up. Meanwhile, Riggan must deal with his girlfriend, daughter, and ex-wife.
"Birdman" is an inventive and intense film that delves into the complexities of fame and the ego. It follows a washed-up actor, known for his superhero role as Birdman, who struggles to reclaim significance through a Broadway play. The film cleverly shows the risks of self-absorption and vanity in the world of showbiz. While it can be a bit overwhelming at times, the movie offers a sharp commentary on the obsession with celebrity and the blurred lines between an actor's true self and their public persona. It's a thought-provoking watch that examines the pitfalls of narcissism and our culture's fixation on fame.
2. Moonlight (2016)
A24
A look at three defining chapters in the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. His epic journey to manhood is guided by the kindness, support, and love of the community that helps raise him.
"Moonlight" is a profoundly touching film that captures the essence of empathy and the human experience. It tells the story of Chiron, a young Black man, as he navigates his way through the trials of childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The film is a heartfelt exploration of his struggles with identity and sexuality, set against the backdrop of a rough Miami neighborhood. Director Barry Jenkins tells this story with a delicate and masterful touch, offering a perspective that speaks to the very core of what it means to be human.
Jenkins' direction in "Moonlight" is both powerful and subtle, showcasing his strong vision and commitment to storytelling. The film unfolds in three acts, each focusing on a different stage of Chiron's life, piecing together the complex puzzle of who he is. This moving coming-of-age narrative resonates deeply, highlighting the challenges of self-discovery and the inner strength required to embrace one's true self. "Moonlight" stands as a testament to the importance of representation and the power of cinema to foster understanding and connection.
1. Parasite (2019)
Neon
Greed and class discrimination threaten the newly formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the destitute Kim clan.
"Parasite" is a masterful blend of dark humor and social satire, marking a high point in Bong Joon-ho's directorial career. The film intricately weaves the lives of two families from vastly different socioeconomic backgrounds, creating a compelling tragicomedy that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Bong's storytelling is sharp and precise, turning a tale of deception and class struggle into a universally acclaimed cinematic masterpiece.
The movie's brilliance lies in its acute reflection of societal divides and the unsettling dynamics of wealth disparity. Through a series of dark, unexpected twists, "Parasite" delivers a powerful commentary on the human condition and social hierarchy that resonates with audiences worldwide. The film's technical excellence – from its stunning cinematography and meticulous editing to its evocative score – ensures that every element on screen serves a deliberate purpose. Every line of dialogue, every scene, contributes to the movie's overarching message, leaving a lasting impression of the artistry behind this modern classic. Parasite is only the movie on this list to get a 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes and the only foreign film to win Best Picture.
