Shoplifters is a gripping exploration of an unconventional family’s struggle for survival in Tokyo. Osamu and Nobuyo, a struggling couple, take in a young girl they find abandoned in the cold. Living on the fringes of society, this makeshift family survives through petty theft and odd jobs. As secrets unfold and the family’s moral boundaries blur, viewers are drawn into a thought-provoking tale of love, loyalty, and the true essence of family. Hirokazu Koreeda’s masterful storytelling and rich character development deliver a captivating narrative that challenges societal norms, leaving audiences with lingering questions about what it means to belong. – ChatGPT
Burningis a haunting and enigmatic thriller directed by Lee Chang-dong. Jong-su, a young aspiring writer, reconnects with Hae-mi, a childhood friend who has returned from a trip with a mysterious new acquaintance, Ben. As the three become entangled, an unsettling tension simmers beneath the surface. The film’s slow-burning narrative explores themes of class, obsession, and the unreliability of memory, creating an atmosphere of unease and ambiguity. With mesmerizing performances and breathtaking cinematography, BURNING is a cerebral and mesmerizing journey that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while leaving them with questions that linger long after the credits roll.
Leave No Trace is a moving drama directed by Debra Granik that tells the story of Will and his teenage daughter, Tom, who live off the grid in a lush forest outside Portland, Oregon. Their tranquil existence is upended when they are discovered by authorities and forced to reintegrate into society. As they struggle to adapt to a conventional life, father and daughter’s bond is tested, revealing their deep love for each other. The film beautifully explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the powerful connection between parent and child. LEAVE NO TRACE is a quietly powerful and emotionally resonant tale of survival and sacrifice.
Little Boxesis a charming and relatable dramedy directed by Rob Meyer. The film follows an interracial family as they move from bustling New York City to a quiet suburban town. The quirky dynamics of their new neighborhood challenge their sense of belonging as they grapple with cultural differences, fitting in, and embracing change. The heartwarming story navigates the complexities of identity, stereotypes, and the bonds that strengthen a family through laughter, tears, and the shared experience of finding one’s place in the world. LITTLE BOXES is a delightful exploration of the human desire for acceptance and the humorous trials of suburban life.
Madeline’s Madelineis a captivating and experimental exploration of identity, art, and mental health. Madeline, a talented young actress, struggles to distinguish between the roles she plays onstage and her evolving sense of self offstage. Her unconventional drama coach pushes boundaries, blurring the lines between reality and performance. As Madeline’s creative and emotional boundaries become increasingly blurred, the film takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into the complexities of artistic expression and personal identity. In this thought-provoking and enigmatic tale, “Madeline’s Madeline” challenges us to question where the line between art and life truly lies.
The Rider gallops onto the screen as a soul-stirring cinematic journey. In the heart of the American West, it follows Brady Blackburn, a rodeo rider who faces an existential crisis after a near-fatal injury sidelines his career. Filmmaker Chloé Zhao paints a visceral and poetic portrait of a man torn between tradition and personal dreams. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the South Dakota Badlands, it’s a raw and unconventional Western that explores the unbreakable bond between humans and horses. THE RIDER is a hauntingly beautiful meditation on resilience, identity, and the unyielding spirit that drives us to chase our own elusive horizons.
Suspiria – The 2019 remake of SUSPIRIA is a mesmerizing and chilling dive into the world of dance and dark mysticism. In a prestigious Berlin dance academy, a young American dancer named Susie enters a world of secrets, power struggles, and the supernatural. As the academy’s artistic director conceals a sinister history, Susie becomes entangled in a web of occultism and dark forces. Director Luca Guadagnino crafts a visually stunning, slow-burning narrative, accentuating the film’s eerie atmosphere with a haunting score. SUSPIRIA is an enigmatic and unnerving journey into the heart of darkness that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.
Buried Treasure
Support the Girls hilariously serves up the absurdity of sports bar life with a side of heart. Lisa, a fiercely determined manager of a Hooters-style restaurant called Double Whammies, takes us on a wild ride through one chaotic day. From malfunctioning cable TV to unruly customers and her unpredictable staff, Lisa juggles it all with humor, resilience, and a no-nonsense attitude. This unconventional comedy unfolds with an irreverent charm, making you root for the underdog in a sea of chicken wings and skimpy uniforms. SUPPORT THE GIRLS delivers belly laughs and a warm slice of camaraderie, proving that life, like a sports bar, is delightfully unpredictable.
The Day After unfolds in a world of intertwined emotions, set against the backdrop of a mundane office in Seoul. Bongwan, a publisher, is entangled in a web of romantic complications as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. A series of brief encounters, mistaken identities, and heartfelt confessions create an intricate tapestry of love, longing, and introspection. Director Hong Sang-soo paints an unconventional and introspective narrative filled with wry humor, inviting viewers to contemplate the delicate threads that connect us all in the intricate fabric of human relationships. THE DAY AFTER is a subtle and contemplative exploration of life’s complexities.
Happy as Lazzaro is a cinematic fable that dances between past and present, reality and fantasy. In a remote Italian village, Lazzaro is a simple and innocent young man who becomes an unwitting participant in a clever scheme. When he encounters the enigmatic Tancredi, their friendship sparks a surreal and transcendent journey through time and class divisions. Director Alice Rohrwacher crafts a beguiling narrative that blurs the lines between realism and myth, revealing the enduring spirit of kindness in a world often driven by exploitation and greed. HAPPY AS LAZZARO is an enchanting and thought-provoking tale that will leave you questioning the boundaries of human connection and empathy.
I Am Not a Witch is an extraordinary film that ventures into a world both surreal and deeply rooted in reality. In a Zambian village, an eight-year-old girl named Shula is accused of witchcraft. Instead of embracing superstition, director Rungano Nyoni delves into a satirical and allegorical exploration of societal norms. Shula’s journey, marked by a ribbon that tethers her to a spindle, becomes a symbol of her otherness. The film cleverly navigates the absurdity of her situation while addressing themes of gender, tradition, and power dynamics. I AM NOT A WITCH is a visually stunning and thought-provoking work of art that defies categorization.
Prospect thrusts viewers into a gritty and immersive sci-fi world like no other. Cee and her father, Damon, are prospectors on a remote alien moon in search of valuable gems. As they navigate treacherous terrain and encounter otherworldly dangers, the film deftly crafts an atmosphere of tension and wonder. What sets “Prospect” apart is its meticulous attention to world-building, creating an alien landscape that feels as real as it is alien. In this unforgiving environment, characters must rely on their wits and resourcefulness to survive. With its unique blend of old-west aesthetics and futuristic storytelling, PROSPECT is a cinematic gem that transports audiences to an uncharted frontier of the genre.
Shirkers is a mesmerizing documentary that unravels a fascinating mystery. In the early 1990s, Sandi Tan and her friends set out to make Singapore’s first indie film, SHIRKERS. However, their enigmatic American mentor, Georges Cardona, vanished with the completed film reels, leaving them with only memories. Decades later, Tan embarks on a quest to recover the lost film. What makes SHIRKERS remarkable is its blend of personal narrative, nostalgia, and the creative spirit of a generation. The film explores the boundaries of art, memory, and friendship, all while revealing the compelling story behind the lost masterpiece. It’s a captivating and unconventional journey into the heart of creativity and the passage of time.
Best Director– It’s a Tie!
Debra Granik for Leave No Trace – Debra Granik, acclaimed director of LEAVE NO TRACE, is a master storyteller known for her ability to capture the raw essence of human connection and resilience. In this film, Granik takes us on an emotionally charged journey into the lives of Will and his daughter Tom, who shun societal norms to live off the grid in the lush forests of Oregon. Granik’s meticulous direction delves deep into the intricate relationship between her characters and their environment, offering a poignant exploration of identity and the powerful bond between a father and his daughter. LEAVE NO TRACE is a testament to Granik’s artistry and her unique talent for weaving compelling narratives out of unconventional settings and characters.
Chloé Zhao for The Rider – Chloé Zhao, the visionary director behind THE RIDER, is a cinematic trailblazer who defies traditional storytelling conventions. In this mesmerizing film, she seamlessly blends fiction and reality, introducing us to Brady Jandreau, a real-life rodeo rider playing a version of himself. Zhao’s masterful direction immerses viewers in the breathtaking landscapes of the American West, offering a poignant meditation on resilience, identity, and the unbreakable bond between humans and horses. With a keen eye for authenticity and a gift for capturing raw emotion, Zhao transforms Brady’s personal story into a universal exploration of dreams, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the American frontier.
Josephine Decker for Madeline’s Madeline – Josephine Decker, the innovative director behind MADELINE’S MADELINE is a cinematic maverick known for pushing boundaries. In this mesmerizing film, she plunges audiences into a surreal world of blurred realities. Decker’s storytelling is an artful dance of emotions, with Helena Howard’s captivating performance at the center. Decker weaves an intricate narrative exploring the fine line between art and life, sanity and madness. Her unique approach challenges conventional storytelling, immersing viewers in the protagonist’s tumultuous psyche. MADELINE’S MADELINE is a remarkable exploration of identity, artistic expression, and the fascinating complexity of the human mind, all orchestrated by Decker’s visionary direction.
Alfonso Cuarón forRoma
Hirokazu Koreeda forShoplifters
Luca Guadagnino for Suspiria
Best Actress
Regina Hall for the role of Lisa in Support the Girls
Eva Melander for the role of Tina in Border
Emma Thompson for the role of Fiona Maye in The Children Act
Joanna Kulig for the role of Zula in Cold War
Thomasin McKenzie for the role of Tom in Leave No Trace
Helena Howard for the role of Madeline in Madeline’s Madeline
Best Actor
(Photo by Axelle Woussen)
Alessandro Nivola for the role of Joel in Weightless
Ethan Hawke for the role of Toller in First Reformed
Charlie Plummer for the role of Charley in Lean on Pete
Ben Fosterfor the role of Will in Leave No Trace
Brady Jandreau for the role of Brady Blackburn Lewis in The Rider
Best Supporting Actress
Sakura Andôfor the role of Nobuyo Shibata in Shoplifters
Jong-seo Jun for the role of Shin Hae-mi in Burning
Miranda July for the role of Regina in Madeline’s Madeline
Molly Parker for the role of Evangeline in Madeline’s Madeline
Tilda Swinton for the role of Dr. Klemperer / Madame Blanc / Helena Markos in Suspiria
Julianne Nicholson for the role of Janeece in Weightless
Best Supporting Actor
Richard E. Grant for the role of Jack Hock in Can You Ever Forgive Me?
Steven Yeun for the role of Ben in Burning
Alessandro Nivola for the role of Dovid Kuperman in Disobedience
Raúl Castillo for the role of Paps in We the Animals
Best Original Screenplay
Shoplifters, screenplay by Hirokazu Koreeda
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs screenplay by Joel & Ethan Coen
First Reformed, screenplay by Paul Schrader
Madeline’s Madeline, screenplay by Josephine Decker and Donna de Novelli
The Rider, screenplay by Chloé Zhao
Best Adapted Screenplay
Can You Ever Forgive Me, screenplay by Nicole Holofcener and Jeff Whitty, based on the novel by Lee Israel
Leave No Trace, screenplay by Debra Granik and Anne Rosellini, based on the novel by Peter Rock
The Miseducation of Cameron Post screenplay by Desiree Akhavan and Cecilia Frugiuele, based on the novel by EmilyM.Danforth
Suspiria, screenplay by Dario Argento and Daria Nicolodi, based on the screenplay by David Kajganich
We Are the Animals, screenplay by Daniel Kitrosser and Jeremiah Zagar, based on his novel by Justin Torres
Best Editing
Joe Bini for You Were Never Really Here
HarrisonAtkins, Josephine Decker, and Elizabeth Rao for Madeline’s Madeline
JoshuaAltman and Bing Liu for Minding the Gap
Walter Fasano for Suspiria
Keiko Deguchi and Brian A. Kates for We the Animals
Shoplifters
Burning 
Leave No Trace is a moving drama directed by Debra Granik that tells the story of Will and his teenage daughter, Tom, who live off the grid in a lush forest outside Portland, Oregon. Their tranquil existence is upended when they are discovered by authorities and forced to reintegrate into society. As they struggle to adapt to a conventional life, father and daughter’s bond is tested, revealing their deep love for each other. The film beautifully explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the powerful connection between parent and child. LEAVE NO TRACE is a quietly powerful and emotionally resonant tale of survival and sacrifice.
Little Boxes
Madeline’s Madelineis a captivating and experimental exploration of identity, art, and mental health. Madeline, a talented young actress, struggles to distinguish between the roles she plays onstage and her evolving sense of self offstage. Her unconventional drama coach pushes boundaries, blurring the lines between reality and performance. As Madeline’s creative and emotional boundaries become increasingly blurred, the film takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into the complexities of artistic expression and personal identity. In this thought-provoking and enigmatic tale, “Madeline’s Madeline” challenges us to question where the line between art and life truly lies. 
The Rider gallops onto the screen as a soul-stirring cinematic journey. In the heart of the American West, it follows Brady Blackburn, a rodeo rider who faces an existential crisis after a near-fatal injury sidelines his career. Filmmaker Chloé Zhao paints a visceral and poetic portrait of a man torn between tradition and personal dreams. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the South Dakota Badlands, it’s a raw and unconventional Western that explores the unbreakable bond between humans and horses. THE RIDER is a hauntingly beautiful meditation on resilience, identity, and the unyielding spirit that drives us to chase our own elusive horizons. 
Suspiria – 
Support the Girls hilariously serves up the absurdity of sports bar life with a side of heart. Lisa, a fiercely determined manager of a Hooters-style restaurant called Double Whammies, takes us on a wild ride through one chaotic day. From malfunctioning cable TV to unruly customers and her unpredictable staff, Lisa juggles it all with humor, resilience, and a no-nonsense attitude. This unconventional comedy unfolds with an irreverent charm, making you root for the underdog in a sea of chicken wings and skimpy uniforms. SUPPORT THE GIRLS delivers belly laughs and a warm slice of camaraderie, proving that life, like a sports bar, is delightfully unpredictable.
The Day After unfolds in a world of intertwined emotions, set against the backdrop of a mundane office in Seoul. Bongwan, a publisher, is entangled in a web of romantic complications as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. A series of brief encounters, mistaken identities, and heartfelt confessions create an intricate tapestry of love, longing, and introspection. Director Hong Sang-soo paints an unconventional and introspective narrative filled with wry humor, inviting viewers to contemplate the delicate threads that connect us all in the intricate fabric of human relationships. THE DAY AFTER is a subtle and contemplative exploration of life’s complexities.
Happy as Lazzaro
I Am Not a Witch is an extraordinary film that ventures into a world both surreal and deeply rooted in reality. In a Zambian village, an eight-year-old girl named Shula is accused of witchcraft. Instead of embracing superstition, director Rungano Nyoni delves into a satirical and allegorical exploration of societal norms. Shula’s journey, marked by a ribbon that tethers her to a spindle, becomes a symbol of her otherness. The film cleverly navigates the absurdity of her situation while addressing themes of gender, tradition, and power dynamics. I AM NOT A WITCH is a visually stunning and thought-provoking work of art that defies categorization.
Prospect 
Shirkers
Debra Granik 
Chloé Zhao 
Josephine Decker
Alfonso Cuarón 
Hirokazu Koreeda 
Luca Guadagnino for 
Regina Hall for the role of Lisa in 
Eva Melander 
Emma Thompson for the role of Fiona Maye in 
Joanna Kulig 
Thomasin McKenzie
Helena Howard 
Ethan Hawke for the role of Toller in 
Charlie Plummer for the role of Charley in 
Ben Foster
Brady Jandreau 
Sakura 
Jong-seo Jun 
Miranda July 
Molly Parker for the role of Evangeline in Madeline’s Madeline
Tilda Swinton 
Julianne Nicholson
Richard E. Grant for the role of Jack Hock in 
Steven Yeun for the role of Ben in 
Alessandro Nivola for the role of Dovid Kuperman in Disobedience
Raúl Castillo for the role of Paps in 
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs 
First Reformed
Madeline’s Madeline, screenplay by Josephine Decker and Donna de Novelli
Can You Ever Forgive Me
Leave No Trace, screenplay by Debra Granik and Anne Rosellini, based on the novel by Peter Rock 
The Miseducation of Cameron Post 
Suspiria, screenplay by Dario Argento and Daria Nicolodi, based on the screenplay by David Kajganich
We Are the Animals, screenplay by Daniel Kitrosser and Jeremiah Zagar, based on his novel by Justin Torres 
Joe Bini 
Joshua
Walter Fasano 
Keiko Deguchi
Lukasz Zal for 
Giora Bejach for 
Joshua James Richards for The Rider
Alfonso Cuarón for 
Zak Mulligan for 
Eugenio Caballero for 
Jess Gonchor 
Charlotte Royer 
Jane Musky 
Inbal Weinberg 
Shoplifters
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs
The Death of Stalin 
The Party
We the Animals
Anatomy of a Male Ballet Dancer
Minding the Gap
Rodents of Unusual Size 
Three Identical Strangers
Won’t You Be My Neighbor?