In this past weekend, I was all set to watch "Red One," a movie featuring The Rock, Chris Evans, and a polar bear rescuing a kidnapped Santa Claus. However, I soon realized that this film might be quite immune to criticism. You don't need me to tell you if it's worth your time as the trailer already gives you a clear idea. It's likely to be fun and entertaining, but there might not be much to deeply analyze.

Three High-Profile Independent Films in Oscar Discussions

"Anora": A Cinematic Masterpiece

Currently playing in theaters, "Anora" is the new film from Sean Baker. Baker is a renowned filmmaker who has mainly focused on unpacking different aspects of sex work from the perspective of lower/middle-class societal outcasts. "Anora" is his most "mainstream" work yet, a 139-minute romantic dramedy that seamlessly combines gritty drama, screwball comedy, and crime thriller.It won the Palme d'Or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, joining the ranks of cinematic greats like "Parasite," "Paris, Texas," "Taxi Driver," "Pulp Fiction," and "Apocalypse Now." On the surface, it's a more realistic take on "Pretty Woman," but it delves deep into the toll that life takes on a young woman who meets a wealthy Russian. What starts as glamorous turns into something more complex. The film is both fun and fast-paced while also being spiritually exhausting. Mikey Madison's performance as Anora is astonishing. It's not my favorite film of the year, but it definitely deserves a top 10 spot.

"We Live in Time": A Romantic Drama with Star Power

Another movie generating awards buzz is "We Live in Time," a romantic drama starring Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. Their easy chemistry makes the film feel lived-in and effortless. Despite the familiar story, their charm keeps us engaged. With John Crowley's deft and subtle direction, the film has both positive (stirring, moving) and negative (cheesy, manipulative) aspects of an old-fashioned melodrama. It's hard to believe A24 released such a conventional film, but it's a welcome change.

"Bird": A Unique Filmmaking Masterpiece

Andrea Arnold's new film "Bird" is also sharing the buzz. Starring Barry Keoghan (who left "Gladiator II" to make this), the film is set in a falling-to-pieces slum in Kent. Bailey, played by the natural and moving Nykiya Adams, lives amidst chaos with her drug-dealing father (played by Keoghan). The film combines gritty immediacy and magical realism, making it feel original. Arnold films most of it handheld, adding to the intensity while still allowing Bailey to access her childhood wonder. The film is tonally all over the place initially but won me over by the end. It's strange and singular, a true achievement by Arnold.I'm unsure if any of these three movies will win top Oscars prizes (although "Anora" has the best chance). Nevertheless, they all deserve your consideration."Anora" — Grade: A-"We Live in Time" — Grade: B"Bird" — Grade: B+