The ELLE office has been buzzing with conversations about everything from our favorite snacks to munch on during London Fashion Week to Alessandro Michele’s eccentric Gucci AW17 collection. However, it seems like the most popular topic of discussion is the 2017 Oscar-nominated films that we have been watching. Despite our busy schedules filled with work deadlines, commuting, grocery shopping, and binge-watching Netflix shows, we have managed to squeeze in some time to catch up on the latest and greatest films.
The Oscars are one of the most highly anticipated events in the entertainment industry, and this year’s nominees did not disappoint. From heart-wrenching dramas to uplifting comedies, there was something for everyone. One of the most talked-about films was “La La Land,” a musical romance starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. The film received a record-tying 14 nominations and won six Oscars, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle and Best Actress for Emma Stone.
Another standout film was “Moonlight,” a coming-of-age drama that follows the life of a young black man as he struggles with his identity and sexuality. The film won three Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Mahershala Ali, and Best Adapted Screenplay for director Barry Jenkins.
Other notable films included “Manchester by the Sea,” a heartbreaking drama about a man who must confront his past after the death of his brother, and “Hidden Figures,” a true story about a group of African American women who played a crucial role in the early days of NASA’s space program.
Despite the diversity and quality of this year’s nominees, there was also controversy surrounding the lack of diversity in the nominations. For the second year in a row, no actors of color were nominated in any of the major categories. This sparked a conversation about the need for more diversity in Hollywood and the importance of telling diverse stories on screen.
Overall, the 2017 Oscars were a celebration of the best and brightest in the entertainment industry. From the stunning fashion on the red carpet to the emotional speeches on stage, it was a night to remember. And while we may have missed out on some sleep to catch up on all the nominated films, it was well worth it to be a part of such an exciting time in cinema.