The former President of the United States, Barack Obama, has unveiled his list of favorite films from 2024. Notably absent from this selection is the blockbuster hit "Wicked." Instead, Obama's choices reflect a diverse range of cinematic offerings, including critically acclaimed dramas and international productions. The list includes titles such as "All We Imagine as Light," "Conclave," "The Piano Lesson," "The Promised Land," "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," "Dune: Part Two," "Anora," "Dìdi," "Sugarcane," and "A Complete Unknown." Obama shared these recommendations on social media, alongside his picks for the best books and music of the year.

Among the selected films, several are frontrunners for major awards at the upcoming Oscars. For instance, "Anora" features Mikey Madison in a compelling role, while "Conclave" delves into the tumultuous events following the death of the Pope. Additionally, "Dune: Part Two" continues its epic saga. Other notable mentions include "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," which is eligible for Best International Film, and "Sugarcane," a contender for Best Documentary Feature. Despite the absence of "Wicked," there's hope that it might be added later, as seen with "The Color Purple" last year.

A Diverse Selection of Cinematic Excellence

Barack Obama's film choices for 2024 showcase a wide array of genres and narratives. These selections highlight both domestic and international stories, offering viewers an eclectic mix of cinema. Each film on the list brings something unique to the table, from deep character studies to sweeping epics. Obama's recommendations provide a glimpse into his personal tastes and preferences, guiding audiences towards thought-provoking and engaging content. This curated list reflects the former president's appreciation for storytelling that challenges and inspires.

Let's delve deeper into the films that made the cut. "All We Imagine as Light" explores themes of imagination and reality, inviting viewers to question the boundaries between the two. "Conclave" takes us inside the Vatican during a time of crisis, revealing the power struggles and moral dilemmas faced by those within. "The Piano Lesson" offers a poignant narrative about family and heritage, set against the backdrop of historical significance. "The Promised Land," although released in 2023, remains a powerful story of hope and resilience. Meanwhile, "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" provides an international perspective, enriching the diversity of the list. Lastly, "Dune: Part Two" continues its epic journey, captivating fans with its intricate world-building and complex characters.

Potential Oscar Contenders and Surprises

Several of Obama's chosen films are strong contenders for the upcoming Academy Awards. Among them, "Anora," "Conclave," and "Dune: Part Two" stand out as potential nominees for Best Picture. These films have garnered critical acclaim and audience praise, positioning them favorably in the race. Moreover, "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" competes in the Best International Film category, while "Sugarcane" vies for Best Documentary Feature. The inclusion of these films in Obama's list underscores their significance and quality.

Interestingly, only three of Obama's selections rank among Gold Derby's top 10 predicted Best Picture nominees. However, "A Complete Unknown" narrowly misses the mark, placing 11th in the rankings. This discrepancy highlights the subjective nature of film criticism and the varying perspectives of different evaluators. It also leaves room for surprises at the Oscars, where unexpected nominations can occur. Furthermore, the absence of "Wicked" from Obama's initial list doesn't rule out a future addition, much like "The Color Purple" was included after its initial omission. As we look forward to the 2025 Oscars ceremony, hosted by Conan O'Brien, the anticipation builds for what could be a memorable event in film history.