Awards season is coming to the end and the Oscars are upon us. Many will be scrambling in the next couple weeks to see the nominated movies. The thing about many of these nominated films is that most of them aren’t the big budget mainstream advertised flicks you hear about month’s in advance of its release. Here is a list of 5 films that you might have missed but need to check out before the Oscars.

1. Spotlight

This best picture favorite is worth the hype that it’s receiving. Based on a true story of a group of Boston Globe journalists investigation against a priest’s allegation of molesting over 80 children. “Spotlight” is one of the best movies ever about journalism, it’s right up there with the likes of “All the President’s Men”. Boasting an all-star cast featuring Michael Keaton (should have been nominated for best supporting actor), Mark Ruffalo (nominated for supporting actor), Rachel McAdams (nominated for supporting actress), the movie scored six Oscar nominations. The film is riveting and suspenseful. It’s a movie you must-see.

Where to watch it:

• Playing in select theaters
• Available on Blu-ray/DVD on February 23, 2016 

2. The Danish Girl

Eddie Redmayne nabbed an Oscar last year for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking, he’s nominated once again for his role in “The Danish Girl” playin Lily Elbe, the first known sex reassignment surgery recipients. Redmayne is terrific in the role alongside the equally formidable Alicia Vikander who is nominated for best supporting actress. This is a complex film that deals with a marriage, a love triangle and a gender transformation. The performances are A-plus. This is a timely film where in today’s society LGBT communities are making headlines and gaining rights they long fought for. The sets, costumes, and overall production design are top-notch.

Where to watch it:

• Playing in select theaters
• Available on Blu-ray/DVD on March 1, 2016.

3. Steve Jobs

Easily the best movie on the man who created Apple. The film delves inside the life on Steve Jobs, and portrays two sides of him, the man and business mogul. Michael Fassbender gives one of his best and most dynamic performances which earned him a well deserved leading actor Oscar nomination. Kate Winslet earned a nomination for supporting actress playing Apple marketing executive Joanna Hoffman, she is razor sharp in this role. Powerful performances by Fassbender and Winslet surrounded with a strong supporting cast gives this film the legitimacy to separate them from other Jobs themed movies. The film doesn’t pain Jobs in the most positive way, but it feels honest. The film was considered a box office flop, but don’t let that deter you from seeing this film. In today’s age where Apple devices are a huge part of our everyday lives, you’d do yourself a disservice not to pick up the DVD and see the origins of the product.

Where to watch it:

• Available on Blu-ray/DVD now (variety of special features included).

4. The Big Short

The financial housing crisis affected all of us and we are still recovering from it. “The Big Short” takes you inside the downfall of it. Brilliant cast including Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale (supporting actor Oscar nominee), Steve Carell, and Brad Pitt. Fans of “The Wolf of Wall Street” will definitely enjoy this film, as it uses the same story formula (narration by a film character, based on a true story, lots of humor, money and stocks as the central theme). Director Adam McKay educates and entertains all at once through the smartly crafted dialogue and presentation. “The Big Short” is easily one of the best films of the year and a top contender for best picture. The film caters to the viewer more so than any other film of last year.

Where to watch it:

• Playing in select theaters
• Available on Blu-ray/DVD on March 15, 2016. 

5. Brooklyn

The best romantic drama of the year is also one of the top films of 2015. The story of an Irish immigrant girl that leaves the only way of life she knows and moves to New York to begin a new life. Brooklyn is set in the 1950’s but still pertinent and relatable today. This is a relatable film not only to someone who has immigrated into a new country, but it’s relatable to anyone who has ever had to move to a new unfamiliar place. Self-discovery is the message at the film’s core. Saoirse Ronan earned the female lead Oscar nomination for her role in the film, it’s the best performance of her career. “Brooklyn” is charming, heartbreaking, romantic, and brave. A very deserving best picture Oscar nominee.

Where to watch it:

• Playing in select theaters
• Available on Blu-ray/DVD on March 15, 2016. 

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