5 fantastic movies, directors and actors that didn’t get nominated for the 2024 Academy Awards
Every year when the Academy Awards announced their nominations, great performances are snubbed. Here are the top movies, directors and actors who were shut out this year.
Best Movie
1. “Gone with the Windshield”
Plot Summary: In a world where cars have developed consciousness, a brave windshield wiper named Wipey embarks on a quest to find the legendary “Ocean of Cleanliness.” Along the way, Wipey teams up with a sassy rearview mirror and a philosophical tire. Together, they navigate a post-apocalyptic landscape filled with dust storms and bird droppings, learning about friendship, resilience, and the true meaning of visibility.
Quote from Academy Member: “While ‘Gone with the Windshield’ certainly cleans up in the creativity department, its narrative seemed to smear more than it cleared. The Academy looks for films that leave a lasting impression, not just a streak-free shine.”
2. “The Secret Life of Broccoli”
Plot Summary: This animated feature explores the hidden world of vegetables when humans aren’t looking. Broccoli, the protagonist, dreams of escaping the kitchen and living wild and free. The plot thickens when a microwave with a villainous AI plans to cook all the vegetables before their time. It’s a race against the clock as Broccoli and his veggie friends plot their great escape from the kitchen to the garden.
Quote from Academy Member: “While ‘The Secret Life of Broccoli’ had its moments of freshness, the overall story was a bit overcooked for our tastes. We tend to favor narratives that are more meaty and less… leafy.”
3. “Dances with Koalas”
Plot Summary: In this musical comedy, a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer tries to revive his career by staging an all-koala musical. The koalas, who secretly possess the ability to dance and sing, become overnight sensations. However, the producer must keep their talent a secret while dealing with diva koalas, koala love triangles, and the challenge of finding the perfect koala-sized tap shoes.
Quote from Academy Member: “As much as we appreciate innovation in film, ‘Dances with Koalas’ felt like it was trotting on the absurd side of things. The Academy prefers films that are a bit more grounded and a little less furry.”
4. “The Time-Traveling Barista”
Plot Summary: A barista discovers her espresso machine is a time portal. Each coffee she brews sends her to a different era, where she inadvertently alters history through her caffeine creations. From the Boston Tea Party turning into the Boston Coffee Riot to accidentally inventing the Frappuccino in Renaissance Italy, her coffee-fueled adventures are both hilarious and historically disruptive.
Quote from Academy Member: “While ‘The Time-Traveling Barista’ was a delightful blend of history and humor, the Academy felt it was a bit too frothy and lacked the robust depth we look for in our Best Picture nominees.”
5. “Attack of the 50-Foot Florist”
Plot Summary: After a bizarre gardening accident involving radioactive fertilizer, a mild-mannered florist transforms into a 50-foot giant. She decides to use her newfound size and strength to fight crime and save her city from the clutches of a villainous real estate developer. Armed with giant flowers and an unbreakable green thumb, she becomes an unlikely superhero.
Quote from Academy Member: “While ‘Attack of the 50-Foot Florist’ certainly grew on us, its larger-than-life plot overshadowed the more nuanced storytelling we look for in our nominees. It’s hard to root for a film where the protagonist is 50 feet tall and fights crime with tulips.”
Best Director
1. Director: Jasper Van Houten
Film: “Barely-Turning Windmill”
Film Synopsis: Set in rural Netherlands, this visually stunning film follows an eccentric windmill keeper who believes his windmill speaks to him. He embarks on a whimsical journey to decode the messages he thinks are from the wind itself, leading to a series of quirky, heartwarming encounters with the local villagers.
Quote from Academy Member: “While Jasper Van Houten’s ‘Barely-Turning Windmill’ is a visual masterpiece with a unique charm, the narrative lacked the substance and depth that we typically seek in a Best Director nominee. It was more a gentle breeze than a compelling gale.”
2. Director: Sofia Ramirez
Film: “Echoes of Tomorrow”
Film Synopsis: A futuristic sci-fi drama where humanity lives in a world without sound. The protagonist, born with the ability to hear, struggles with the isolation and yearning to share her experience. Her journey becomes a metaphor for understanding and embracing differences in a silent world.
Quote from Academy Member: “Sofia Ramirez’s ‘Echoes of Tomorrow’ presented a bold and imaginative concept. However, the execution didn’t quite resonate with the Academy. The film needed a stronger narrative to match its ambitious premise.”
3. Director: Aarav Singh
Film: “The Last Monsoon”
Film Synopsis: This film tells the story of a small Indian village grappling with the effects of climate change. As the villagers face their potentially last monsoon season, the story weaves through their lives, capturing their hopes, fears, and resilience in the face of an uncertain future.
Quote from Academy Member: “Aarav Singh’s ‘The Last Monsoon’ is a poignant and beautifully shot film. However, it fell short in terms of its pacing and character development, which are crucial elements we consider in our selection for Best Director.”
4. Director: Elena Kuznetsova
Film: “Bloody Ballet Shoes”
Film Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of a war-torn city, this film intertwines the lives of a group of ballet dancers who use dance as a form of resistance and expression. The film explores themes of art, rebellion, and the human spirit under oppression.
Quote from Academy Member: “Elena Kuznetsova’s ‘Bloody Ballet Shoes’ is a visually arresting film with a powerful message. However, the narrative sometimes lost its footing, and the storytelling wasn’t as tight as we’d expect for a Best Director contender.”
5. Director: Liam O’Connor
Film: “The Jester’s Best Jokes”
Film Synopsis: In this dark comedy set in medieval times, a court jester becomes unwittingly entangled in a plot to overthrow the king. The film blends humor with political intrigue, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and the role of humor in dark times.
Quote from Academy Member: “Liam O’Connor’s ‘The Jester’s Best Jokes’ had a unique blend of humor and drama with a fresh take on a historical setting. However, the film’s inconsistent tone and pacing made it fall short of what the Academy looks for in a Best Director nominee.”
Best Actor
1. Actor: Chadwick Strongjaw
Film: “The Incredible Adventures of Captain Mustache”
Role: Captain Mustache, a swashbuckling hero with a sentient, problem-solving mustache.
Film Synopsis: Set in a bizarre steampunk universe, Captain Mustache sails the skies in his airship, battling sky-pirates and solving mysteries with his incredibly intelligent mustache, which has a mind of its own.
Quote from Academy Member: “While Chadwick Strongjaw’s commitment to the role was commendable, especially the mustache training he underwent, the Academy found the concept of a sentient mustache solving crimes a bit too far-fetched for a Best Actor nomination.”
2. Actor: Raul Gomez
Film: “The Last Grasshopper Herder”
Role: Juan Pacheco, a grasshopper herder who discovers his grasshoppers have supernatural abilities.
Film Synopsis: In the Andes, Juan Pacheco’s grasshoppers suddenly gain the ability to communicate telepathically with him, leading him on a mystical journey to save their homeland from an unscrupulous mining company.
Quote from Academy Member: “Raul Gomez brought a surprising depth to his role as a telepathic grasshopper herder. However, the Academy generally looks for performances grounded in reality, and this grasshopper-led escapade was a leap too far.”
3. Actor: Gregory Fontaine
Film: “Moon Cheese”
Role: Dr. Horatio Brie, an eccentric scientist obsessed with proving the moon is made of cheese.
Film Synopsis: Dr. Brie builds a DIY rocket to travel to the moon and prove his theory, encountering bizarre obstacles and cosmic conundrums along the way. The film is a blend of slapstick comedy and surreal science fiction.
Quote from Academy Member: “Gregory Fontaine’s portrayal of a cheese-obsessed scientist was certainly unique, but the Academy tends to favor more serious roles. The idea of the moon made of cheese was amusing but not quite award material.”
4. Actor: Hiroshi Takahashi
Film: “Samurai Chef”
Role: Kenjiro Yamamoto, a samurai-turned-chef who uses his sword skills in the kitchen.
Film Synopsis: In feudal Japan, a disgraced samurai reinvents himself as a chef, using his swordsmanship to create culinary masterpieces and fend off rival chefs in epic kitchen battles.
Quote from Academy Member: “Hiroshi Takahashi’s performance in ‘Samurai Chef’ was a delightful mix of culinary art and martial prowess. However, the Academy found the concept of samurai kitchen battles a bit too over-seasoned for a Best Actor nomination.”
5. Actor: Tyler Jefferson
Film: “The Invisible Flautist”
Role: Peter Flannigan, a musician who turns invisible whenever he plays the flute.
Film Synopsis: A struggling musician discovers he becomes invisible while playing his flute, leading to a series of comedic and heartwarming adventures as he uses his power to bring joy and justice to his community.
Quote from Academy Member: “Tyler Jefferson’s portrayal of an invisible flautist was certainly a creative challenge, and he played the role with gusto. However, the Academy generally recognizes performances that are visually compelling, and an invisible protagonist proved too elusive for a nomination.”
Best Actress
1. Actress: Isabella Fortuna
Film: “Queen of the Quantum Realm”
Role: Dr. Elara Quantum, a brilliant physicist who accidentally becomes queen of a subatomic kingdom.
Film Synopsis: After a lab experiment goes awry, Dr. Quantum shrinks to the size of an atom and discovers a fantastical quantum world. She must use her scientific knowledge and newly acquired royal status to prevent a war between atomic particles.
Quote from Academy Member: “Isabella Fortuna’s performance was as dynamic as the subatomic particles she ruled, but the Academy found the concept of a quantum realm monarchy a bit too abstract for a Best Actress nomination.”
2. Actress: Lily-Rose Sinclair
Film: “The Giraffe Whisperer”
Role: Emily Thornberry, a zoologist who develops a unique ability to communicate with giraffes.
Film Synopsis: Emily discovers she can understand giraffes and becomes an advocate for their conservation, embarking on a journey that takes her from the savannas of Africa to the halls of global power, all while navigating the complexities of ‘giraffe language.’
Quote from Academy Member: “Lily-Rose Sinclair brought a touching sensitivity to her role. However, the Academy typically honors more human-centric performances, and ‘The Giraffe Whisperer’ was a stretch too far, even for us. I mean, she had to stand on huge ladders or climb on the roof to whisper to them.”
3. Actress: Margot St. James
Film: “The Mysterious Case of Miss Peregrine’s Parrot”
Role: Miss Arabella Peregrine, a Victorian detective with a crime-solving parrot sidekick.
Film Synopsis: In this whimsical detective story, Miss Peregrine and her parrot unravel mysteries in 19th-century London. The parrot’s uncanny ability to mimic clues and suspects alike becomes key in solving a series of bizarre cases.
Quote from Academy Member: “Margot St. James delivered a charming performance, but the Academy generally looks for roles that are grounded in reality. A detective parrot, while amusing, didn’t fit the bill for Best Actress.”
4. Actress: Fiona Cheng
Film: “Galactic Ballerina”
Role: Nova Starling, a ballerina chosen to represent Earth in an intergalactic dance competition.
Film Synopsis: Set in a future where Earth participates in a cosmic federation, Nova must blend various alien dance forms with classical ballet to compete in the galaxy’s most prestigious dance contest, facing both interstellar rivalries and gravity-defying choreography.
Quote from Academy Member: “Fiona Cheng’s performance was out of this world, literally. However, the Academy tends to favor performances that are more down-to-earth, and ‘Galactic Ballerina’ was a bit too spaced out for our taste.”
5. Actress: Emily Carter
Film: “The Last Librarian”
Role: Jane Goodwell, a librarian in a dystopian future where books are banned, and she becomes the leader of an underground book movement.
Film Synopsis: In a world where digital media reigns and books are forbidden, Jane leads a secret society dedicated to preserving literature, orchestrating book heists and covert reading sessions, all while evading the ‘anti-literature’ authorities.
Quote from Academy Member: “Emily Carter’s portrayal of a rebellious librarian was compelling and thought-provoking. However, the Academy prefers performances that resonate more closely with contemporary themes, and ‘The Last Librarian’ was shelved under too fantastical for us.”
Best Supporting Actress
1. Actress: Vanessa Vickers
Film: “The Polka-Dot Pirate”
Plot Summary: In this swashbuckling comedy, Vanessa plays the role of a quirky pirate who is obsessed with polka dots. Her character, Dot, is both the ship’s navigator and fashion consultant, leading her crew on a quest for the legendary ‘Polka-Dot Pearl.’
Quote from Vanessa Vickers: “I mean, how many actresses do you know who can sword fight while giving fashion advice in polka dots? My role was not just supportive; it was pivotal. Dot’s polka dots were symbolic of the unity and diversity of our crew. That’s deep, right?”
2. Actress: Rachel Rivera
Film: “The Whispering Mime”
Plot Summary: Rachel Rivera stars as a mime who breaks her vow of silence to save her theater troupe from a nefarious plot. Her character, Marcelle, uses her voice for the first time in years, revealing a surprising twist and saving the day.
Quote from Rachel Rivera: “I portrayed Marcelle’s internal struggle with such nuance that when she finally spoke, it was a moment of pure cinematic magic. It’s not every day you see a mime break character and still carry the film. I was robbed, I tell you!”
3. Actress: Fiona Fredericks
Film: “Cupcake Catastrophe”
Plot Summary: Fiona plays the role of a master pastry chef who accidentally invents a cupcake that grants superpowers. Her character, Chef Lulu, becomes an accidental hero in a town overrun by bizarre, cupcake-induced incidents.
Quote from Fiona Fredericks: “Chef Lulu was more than just a supporting character; she was the frosting on the cupcake! The depth I brought to Lulu, juggling comedy with a dash of existential dread over her creations, was surely nomination-worthy.”
4. Actress: Natalie Norris
Film: “The Invisible Flautist”
Plot Summary: In this musical comedy, Natalie plays the role of the world’s second-best invisible flautist, constantly overshadowed by the protagonist. Her character, Clarissa, is both hilariously bitter and surprisingly talented.
Quote from Natalie Norris: “Playing an invisible character who’s constantly overlooked? That’s metaphorical gold! Clarissa’s silent, unseen flute solos were a poignant commentary on the underappreciation of supporting roles. If that’s not Oscar material, I don’t know what is.”
5. Actress: Kimberly Kline
Film: “Zombie Zumba”
Plot Summary: Kimberly stars as a zumba instructor who unwittingly leads her class during a zombie apocalypse. Her character, Tina, keeps the class going, believing the zombies are just really dedicated students.
Quote from Kimberly Kline: “Tina was the heart and soul of ‘Zombie Zumba.’ I mean, keeping a zumba class motivated while the undead are clawing at the door? That takes skill and a level of comedic timing that’s surely worth a nod from the Academy.”
Best Supporting Actor
1. Actor: Derek Daniels
Film: “The Great Poodle Heist”
Plot Summary: In this offbeat comedy, Derek plays the role of a bumbling dog groomer who unwittingly becomes the mastermind behind a poodle kidnapping scheme. His character, Benny, is both hilariously inept and endearingly earnest.
Quote from Derek Daniels: “Benny wasn’t just comic relief; he was the heart of the heist! I brought a level of clumsy charm to the role that really should have caught the Academy’s eye. Plus, acting alongside ten poodles and not getting upstaged? That’s Oscar-worthy!”
2. Actor: Marcus Monroe
Film: “The Last Librarian”
Plot Summary: In this dystopian drama, Marcus plays the role of a rebellious librarian’s assistant who becomes a secret literary warrior. His character, Giles, is a quiet yet powerful force in the underground book movement.
Quote from Marcus Monroe: “Giles was the unsung hero of ‘The Last Librarian.’ I portrayed his quiet rebellion with a subtlety that screams ‘Best Supporting Actor.’ I mean, who else can make cataloging books look like an act of defiance?”
3. Actor: Simon Sanchez
Film: “Moon Cheese”
Plot Summary: In this quirky sci-fi adventure, Simon plays the role of a skeptical astronaut who accompanies the protagonist on a mission to prove the moon is made of cheese. His character, Commander Vega, provides both scientific insight and comedic skepticism.
Quote from Simon Sanchez: “Commander Vega was the voice of reason in a sea of lunar lunacy. My performance balanced humor with humanity, grounding the film’s more outlandish moments. If that’s not supporting actor material, I don’t know what is!”
4. Actor: Ethan Edwards
Film: “Samurai Chef”
Plot Summary: In this action-packed culinary comedy, Ethan plays the role of a rival chef who challenges the protagonist to a series of epic cooking battles. His character, Chef Dragon, is both a formidable adversary and a comic foil.
Quote from Ethan Edwards: “Chef Dragon was more than just a villain; he was a culinary artist with a sword. The physicality and comedic timing I brought to the role were like a perfectly seasoned dish. The Academy missed a real treat by not nominating me.”
5. Actor: Jordan James
Film: “Galactic Ballerina”
Plot Summary: In this interstellar drama, Jordan plays the role of a retired alien dancer who mentors the protagonist. His character, Zorax, is a blend of wisdom, grace, and otherworldly charm.
Quote from Jordan James: “Zorax was a pivotal character, teaching not just dance, but life lessons across the cosmos. My portrayal brought depth and dignity to the film, transcending the typical supporting role. It’s a mystery how the Academy didn’t see the brilliance in that.”
Cinematographer
Harrison Clarkey, previously acclaimed for his work in “Shadows Whisper” and “Glimmer in the Gloom,” brought a new definition of ‘dim’ in his latest film, “Eclipse of Reason.” Clarkey’s penchant for playing hide-and-seek with light and darkness reached new heights, or rather, depths. “I wanted to explore the boundaries of minimal lighting, to find beauty in the unseen,” Clarkey mused. However, an Academy member dryly noted, “Harrison’s work was as dark as my ex’s heart. We appreciate a good shadow play, but we also like to recognize the actors’ faces.” A film fan added, “I thought my TV was broken, but it was just Clarkey’s ‘artistic vision’ at play.”
Emma Tremorstan, known for her kinetic visuals in “Urban Pulse” and “Rhythmic Chaos,” took her love for the shaky cam to the extreme in “The Quiver.” Her approach, aiming to mirror the narrative’s seismic disturbances, ended up causing a different kind of disturbance in the audience. Tremorstan defended her choice: “The camera’s movement was a character in itself, integral to the story.” An Academy member disagreed, “Emma’s camera work was more unstable than my nephew’s first steps.” A regular moviegoer joked, “I didn’t need a 3D movie; Tremorstan’s camera did all the moving for me.”
Vincent Blacklike, whose mastery of shadows was celebrated in “Midnight Murmur” and “Twilight Tales,” ventured into an almost pitch-black visual narrative with “Nocturne.” Black’s commitment to ‘natural darkness’ was both literal and metaphorical. “I believe there’s profoundness in darkness, in the unseen and unlit,” Blacklike stated. An Academy member countered, “Vincent’s love for the dark is commendable, but we usually like to see a bit more… well, anything.” A fan quipped, “I spent two hours staring at a dark screen; at least my electricity bill was happy.”
Isabella Brightbeam, the eye behind the visually stunning “Luminous Path” and “Daydream,” turned the brightness dial way up in “The Glare.” Her overexposed frames in this sci-fi spectacle were as bold as they were blinding. “I wanted to challenge the viewers’ perception of light and its absence,” Brightbeam explained. An Academy member commented, “Isabella turned brightness up to eleven. It’s a film, not a flashlight.” A viewer remarked, “I didn’t know whether to watch the movie or use it to search for my lost keys.”
Michael Greystoner, celebrated for his nuanced use of color in “Canvas of Dreams” and “Hues of Heart,” chose a stark grayscale palette for “Achromatic.” His exploration of a world without color was as daring as it was monotonous. “The absence of color speaks volumes about our perception of life,” Greystoner reflected. An Academy member observed, “Michael’s film was fifty shades of grey minus forty-nine.” A film enthusiast added, “Watching ‘Achromatic’ was like time traveling to a TV store in the 1950s.”
