Oscar-Winning Movies Of 2022: The Complete List
The 2022 Oscars celebrated a year of incredible cinematic achievements, and if you're anything like me, you're probably still buzzing about all the glitz, glamour, and, most importantly, the amazing films that took home the golden statuettes. So, let's dive into the complete list of Oscar-winning movies from 2022. Whether you're a film buff looking to revisit these masterpieces or someone just trying to catch up on the must-see movies, this guide has got you covered. Get your popcorn ready, guys, because we're about to embark on a cinematic journey!
Best Picture: CODA
CODA, which stands for Children of Deaf Adults, snagged the biggest award of the night – Best Picture. This heartwarming and groundbreaking film tells the story of Ruby, a young woman who is the only hearing member of her deaf family. CODA's victory was a historic moment for representation in Hollywood, highlighting the importance of inclusive storytelling. The film's emotional depth and authentic portrayal of the deaf community resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
The beauty of CODA lies in its simplicity and genuine emotion. The story isn't overly dramatic; it's a slice-of-life narrative that explores the challenges and joys of a family navigating their unique circumstances. The cast, featuring talented deaf actors like Marlee Matlin, Troy Kotsur, and Daniel Durant, brought an unparalleled level of authenticity to their roles. Their performances were not just acting; they were lived experiences, making the film all the more impactful. The film's director, Sian Heder, did an exceptional job of creating a space where these voices could be heard and celebrated.
Beyond its cultural significance, CODA is simply a well-crafted film. The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the scenic landscapes of Gloucester, Massachusetts, where the movie was filmed. The soundtrack is also fantastic, featuring a mix of upbeat pop songs and more emotional ballads that perfectly complement the story. The film's pacing is excellent, never feeling rushed or dragging on. It's a movie that keeps you engaged from beginning to end, and it's sure to leave you with a warm feeling in your heart.
CODA's win also highlighted the changing landscape of Hollywood, where streaming services are increasingly playing a significant role in film production and distribution. The film was produced by Apple TV+, marking the first time a streaming service has won the Best Picture award. This victory signals a shift in the industry, where traditional studios are no longer the only players in the game. Streaming services are now producing high-quality content that can compete with the best of what Hollywood has to offer.
Best Director: Jane Campion (The Power of the Dog)
Jane Campion took home the Best Director award for her mesmerizing work on The Power of the Dog. Campion's win was a historic moment as she became the third woman to ever win the award, following Kathryn Bigelow and Chloé Zhao. The Power of the Dog is a psychological Western drama that explores themes of masculinity, repression, and unspoken desires. Campion's masterful direction brought the story to life with stunning visuals and nuanced performances.
The Power of the Dog is a visually stunning film, and Campion's direction is largely responsible for that. The film was shot on location in New Zealand, which stood in for the American West. The landscapes are vast and breathtaking, and Campion uses them to great effect, creating a sense of isolation and loneliness that permeates the entire film. The cinematography is also top-notch, with beautiful lighting and framing that add to the film's overall atmosphere.
But Campion's direction is not just about visuals; it's also about performances. She elicits incredible performances from her cast, particularly Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays the complex and troubled character of Phil Burbank. Cumberbatch's performance is subtle and nuanced, and Campion allows him to convey a great deal of emotion without saying a word. The other actors in the film, including Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, and Kodi Smit-McPhee, also deliver excellent performances, and Campion's direction ensures that they all work together seamlessly.
The Power of the Dog is a challenging film, and it's not for everyone. But it's also a rewarding film, and it's one that stays with you long after you've seen it. Campion's direction is masterful, and she has created a film that is both beautiful and thought-provoking. Her win for Best Director was well-deserved, and it's a testament to her talent and vision.
Best Actor: Will Smith (King Richard)
Will Smith won Best Actor for his role in King Richard, a biographical drama about Richard Williams, the father and coach of tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams. Smith's portrayal of Richard was both charismatic and complex, capturing the determination and unwavering belief that Williams had in his daughters' potential. The film celebrates the power of family, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.
Smith's performance as Richard Williams is nothing short of transformative. He embodies the character's physicality, mannerisms, and voice, making it easy to forget that you're watching Will Smith, the movie star. But it's not just an impersonation; Smith also brings a depth of emotion and vulnerability to the role, showing us the human side of a man who was often portrayed as eccentric and controversial. He captures Richard's unwavering belief in his daughters' potential, his determination to protect them from the pitfalls of the sports industry, and his love for his family.
King Richard is more than just a sports movie; it's a story about family, race, and the American dream. The film explores the challenges that the Williams family faced as they navigated the predominantly white world of tennis, and it highlights the importance of representation and opportunity. It also celebrates the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, showing us that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and your dreams.
Best Actress: Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye)
Jessica Chastain took home the Best Actress award for her incredible transformation into Tammy Faye Bakker in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. This biographical drama tells the story of the rise and fall of the famous televangelist. Chastain's performance was praised for its authenticity, vulnerability, and fearless portrayal of a complex and controversial figure.
Chastain's transformation into Tammy Faye is truly remarkable. She underwent hours of makeup and prosthetics each day to capture Bakker's iconic look, and she completely immersed herself in the character's mannerisms and voice. But it's not just a physical transformation; Chastain also captures the essence of Tammy Faye's personality, her warmth, her compassion, and her unwavering faith. She shows us the human side of a woman who was often ridiculed and judged by the public.
The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a story about faith, forgiveness, and the power of redemption. The film explores the complexities of Tammy Faye's life, her marriage to Jim Bakker, their rise to fame, and their eventual downfall. It also delves into the controversies that surrounded them, including allegations of financial mismanagement and infidelity. But ultimately, the film is a celebration of Tammy Faye's spirit and her unwavering belief in the power of love and acceptance.
Best Supporting Actor: Troy Kotsur (CODA)
Troy Kotsur made history by winning Best Supporting Actor for his role in CODA. He became the first deaf male actor to win an acting Oscar. Kotsur's performance as Frank Rossi, Ruby's deaf father, was both hilarious and deeply moving. His win was a significant moment for representation and inclusion in Hollywood.
Kotsur's performance in CODA is a revelation. He brings a raw and authentic energy to the role of Frank Rossi, a deaf fisherman who is fiercely protective of his family. His chemistry with his on-screen wife, played by Marlee Matlin, is palpable, and their scenes together are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Kotsur's win was not just a personal victory; it was a victory for the deaf community, proving that deaf actors can excel in mainstream roles and that their stories deserve to be told.
Best Supporting Actress: Ariana DeBose (West Side Story)
Ariana DeBose won Best Supporting Actress for her electrifying performance as Anita in Steven Spielberg's West Side Story remake. DeBose's portrayal of Anita was fierce, passionate, and full of life. Her win was particularly special as she is an openly queer Afro-Latina actress, representing a significant step forward for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.
DeBose's performance in West Side Story is nothing short of iconic. She brings a new level of energy and charisma to the role of Anita, making it her own while still honoring the legacy of Rita Moreno, who won an Oscar for playing the same role in the 1961 film. DeBose's singing, dancing, and acting are all top-notch, and she commands the screen whenever she's on it. Her win was well-deserved, and it's a testament to her talent and hard work.
Other Notable Winners
- Best Original Screenplay: Belfast – Kenneth Branagh
- Best Adapted Screenplay: CODA – Sian Heder
- Best Animated Feature Film: Encanto
- Best International Feature Film: Drive My Car (Japan)
- Best Documentary Feature: Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)
So there you have it, folks! The complete list of Oscar-winning movies from 2022. It was a year filled with incredible films that pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and celebrated the power of storytelling. If you haven't already, be sure to check out these amazing movies. You won't be disappointed!
