82nd Oscars Gems: Diverse Indie Films from Around the Globe
58 titles
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Granny O'Grimm's Sleeping BeautyMovie · 2008 · 6m · Animation, Comedy, FantasyA seemingly sweet old woman, Granny O'Grimm, begins to tell her granddaughter the story of Sleeping Beauty. As she recounts the tale, Granny’s memory falters, and her version of the classic fairytale becomes increasingly bizarre and unsettling.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7 - 2
Bright StarMovie · 2009 · 119m · Drama, RomanceIn 1818, spirited Fanny Brawne becomes increasingly fascinated by John Keats, a handsome but reserved poet who lives near her family's friends, the Dilkes. After reading his poetry, she is even more captivated by his quiet nature. He agrees to tutor her in poetry, but Keats cannot act on his feelings for Fanny because, as a struggling poet, he lacks the means to support a wife.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 3
The White RibbonMovie · 2009 · 144m · Drama, MysteryAn old tailor reflects on his time as a schoolteacher in a remote Northern German village during the year before World War I, a period marked by a series of unusual occurrences.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 4
The Most Dangerous Man in AmericaMovie · 2009 · 92m · Documentary"The Most Dangerous Man in America" tells the story of a former Pentagon employee who, driven by his conscience and possessing a collection of classified documents, takes it upon himself to confront a powerful presidency. He aims to end the Vietnam War, challenging a leader who is accountable to no one.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3 - 5
KaviMovie · 2009 · 19mA young boy tries to escape his life as a bonded laborer in an Indian brick kiln.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.6 - 6
AvatarMovie · 2009 · 162m · Science Fiction, Action, AdventureIn the 22nd century, a paralyzed Marine is sent to the moon Pandora on a special assignment. He finds himself struggling to choose between obeying his orders and safeguarding the planet's indigenous people.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 7
A Serious ManMovie · 2009 · 106m · Comedy, DramaIn 1967, Larry Gopnik, a physics professor at a peaceful Midwestern university, learns from his wife Judith that she is leaving him for Sy Ableman, one of Larry's colleagues – a man she finds more impressive.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 8
Sherlock HolmesMovie · 2009 · 129m · Action, Adventure, CrimeSherlock Holmes, the unconventional consulting detective, and Dr. John Watson face a dangerous new enemy and must solve a perilous scheme threatening England's stability.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 9
The Secret in Their EyesMovie · 2009 · 130m · Mystery, Thriller, DramaRetired criminal investigator Benjamín tries to resolve lingering issues from a previous case by writing a novel about the unsolved rape and murder of a new bride. He works with a former colleague, Judge Irene, to understand what happened.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0 - 10
The Lovely BonesMovie · 2009 · 136m · Fantasy, DramaFollowing her murder, 14-year-old Susie Salmon observes her grieving family from heaven, including her killer. Watching their everyday lives unfold, she struggles to reconcile her need for revenge with her hope for their healing.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.1 - 11
The Last Campaign of Governor Booth GardnerMovie · 2009 · 37mThis documentary examines the debate surrounding a ballot initiative in Washington State concerning assisted suicide.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.0 - 12
A ProphetMovie · 2009 · 155m · Crime, DramaMalik El Djebena receives a six-year prison sentence. Having never learned to read or write, he feels isolated and vulnerable upon entering prison. He quickly becomes drawn to a dominant group of Corsican inmates who control life within the prison walls. As he participates in their activities, Malik grows stronger and earns the trust of the Corsicans.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 13
China's Unnatural Disaster: The Tears of Sichuan ProvinceMovie · 2009 · 38mIn May 2008, a devastating earthquake struck Sichuan Province, China, claiming nearly 70,000 lives, including 10,000 children. Across the region, schools built with substandard materials collapsed, trapping students – often the only children of their families – inside. The parents, desperate for answers and accountability, were met with indifference, corruption, and broken promises from those in power.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.4 - 14
Fantastic Mr. FoxMovie · 2009 · 87m · Adventure, Animation, ComedyFeeling restless, Mr. Fox devises a daring plan to steal chickens from three nearby farmers. The farmers, fed up with the fox's constant raids, plot their revenge on him and his family.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 15
UpMovie · 2009 · 96m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyCarl Fredricksen has always longed to travel and live life to the fullest. But at 78, he feels his opportunities have vanished, until an unexpected turn of events – and the determined 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer Russell – offer him a chance at a new beginning.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 16
The Secret of KellsMovie · 2009 · 78m · Animation, Family, FantasyTwelve-year-old Brendan embarks on an adventure to find a crystal and complete the legendary Book of Kells. He must battle Vikings and a serpent god on a secret quest beyond his abbey, into an enchanted forest filled with mythical creatures. Brendan must confront his greatest fears to fulfill Brother Aiden's work. Will he succeed?IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 17
The CoveMovie · 2009 · 92m · Documentary"The Cove" recounts the remarkable true story of a dedicated team of filmmakers and freedivers who secretly entered a secluded cove in Japan to expose a disturbing and dangerous truth. Their startling findings revealed a much larger, more troubling reality.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.9 - 18
A Single ManMovie · 2009 · 100m · Drama, RomanceIn 1962 Los Angeles, during the Cuban missile crisis, a British college professor struggles with his memories and uncertainty about what lies ahead. The film follows him through one day as a series of events and people prompt him to confront whether life can hold meaning following the loss of his partner, Jim.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 19
The Blind SideMovie · 2009 · 129m · DramaThis is the true story of Michael Oher, a young man who overcame a difficult childhood as a homeless and traumatized child to become an All-American football star and a highly-drafted NFL player, thanks to the support of a compassionate woman and her family.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.7 - 20
Paris 36Movie · 2008 · 120m · DramaSet against the backdrop of a turbulent 1936 Paris, this historical drama, with music by Christophe Barratier, follows the emergence of a new talent during a period of both excitement and upheaval. As the rise of the Third Reich casts a shadow over Europe, France welcomes Léon Blum, a leftist leader who has become Prime Minister. Organized labor, emboldened by this change, asserts its power through direct action against employers.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 21
AjamiMovie · 2009 · 120m · Crime, DramaIn the diverse neighborhood of Ajami, Tel Aviv, where Arabs, Palestinians, Jews, and Christians coexist uneasily, lives Omar, an Israeli Arab fighting to protect his family from ruthless extortionists. He also pursues a relationship with Hadir, a beautiful Christian woman. Meanwhile, Malek, an undocumented Palestinian worker, desperately seeks funds for his mother's medical treatment. And Dando, an Israeli police officer, is determined to find his missing brother, who may have been killed by Palestinians.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 22
Crazy HeartMovie · 2009 · 112m · Drama, Music, RomanceReporter Jean Craddock interviews Bad Blake, a washed-up country music star struggling with alcoholism. They form a connection, and the aging singer sees a chance for redemption in a life with Jean and her young son.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 23
An EducationMovie · 2009 · 100m · Drama, RomanceJenny, a bright and beautiful teenager with dreams of Oxford, has lived a sheltered life. Her world changes when David, a charming older man, enters her life driving a stylish car. Jenny experiences a taste of adulthood that profoundly impacts her.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 24
A Matter of Loaf and DeathMovie · 2008 · 30m · Family, Animation, ComedyWallace and Gromit start a bakery and unexpectedly find themselves caught up in a murder investigation. While Wallace is distracted by romance, Gromit must solve the crime on his own.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 25
The Imaginarium of Doctor ParnassusMovie · 2009 · 123m · Adventure, Fantasy, MysteryA man is rescued by a traveling carnival group and, in return, agrees to assist their immortal leader. The leader needs him to gather five souls as part of a wager with the devil.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 26
In the LoopMovie · 2009 · 106m · ComedyThe US President and the UK Prime Minister are preparing to initiate a war in the Middle East. However, within their governments, officials and advisors are deeply divided, with some advocating for the conflict and others working to prevent it.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 27
Il DivoMovie · 2008 · 113m · DramaItaly, early 1990s. Giulio Andreotti, a powerful and enigmatic politician, has dominated Italian politics for decades. He has weathered countless crises—elections, terrorist attacks, personal tragedies, and damaging accusations. Now, however, former Mafia members begin to suggest his involvement in Cosa Nostra's criminal activities.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.6 - 28
The Hurt LockerMovie · 2008 · 131m · Drama, Thriller, WarSet during the Iraq War, the film follows a Sergeant newly assigned to an army bomb squad. His unconventional approach to the job creates friction and conflict with his fellow squad members.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 29
LogoramaMovie · 2009 · 16m · Animation, Crime, ComedyTwo police officers, resembling Michelin Man characters, pursue an armed Ronald McDonald through the streets of a uniquely designed city.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 30
Food, Inc.Movie · 2008 · 94m · DocumentaryDocumentary filmmaker Robert Kenner explores how large corporations now control every part of the American food system, from farming to restaurants and supermarkets. Narrated by Eric Schlosser, the film includes interviews with ordinary Americans about what they eat, insights from food experts like Michael Pollan, and disturbing footage from inside major meatpacking facilities.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 31
Burma VJ: Reporting from a Closed CountryMovie · 2008 · 84m · DocumentaryAcclaimed filmmaker Anders Østergaard offers an intimate look at the video journalists risking everything to report from Burma. Facing potential torture and imprisonment, these brave young people embody the core of journalism by relentlessly providing news from a country tightly controlled by its government.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2 - 32
Instead of AbracadabraMovie · 2008 · 22mA man who is still living with his parents strives to achieve his ambition of becoming a magician.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 33
The Young VictoriaMovie · 2009 · 105m · Drama, History, RomanceTeenage Victoria, the sole heir to the English throne, finds herself navigating complex family politics. Her mother pressures her to sign a document granting regency powers, while her Belgian uncle plots a marriage between Victoria and Prince Albert, a union destined to be a lifelong love.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 34
Rabbit à la BerlinMovie · 2009 · 39mThis is the story of wild rabbits who lived in the no-man's land between the Berlin Wall for 28 years. The heavily guarded "Death Zone" provided them with abundant food and protection from predators and human interference, creating a haven where they thrived. As their numbers grew to thousands, the guards began removing them. Yet, the rabbits persisted. But when the wall fell, their secure world vanished. Forced to adapt, they migrated to West Berlin, establishing small colonies and navigating a new, uncertain life alongside the people of Eastern Europe.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.4 - 35
Coco Before ChanelMovie · 2009 · 110m · Drama, HistoryYears after leaving the orphanage where her father never returned, Gabrielle Chanel works in a small-town bar. She sews costumes for the performers and sings, earning the nickname Coco from a song she performs with her sister each night. A relationship with Baron Balsan introduces her to high society and provides an opportunity to hone her talent for design.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.9 - 36
Up in the AirMovie · 2009 · 110m · Drama, RomanceRyan Bingham is a corporate recruiter who travels constantly for his job. He lives out of airports and hotels, and is close to achieving ten million frequent flyer miles. However, meeting a woman makes him question his detached lifestyle.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 37
Which Way HomeMovie · 2009 · 90mThis film follows unaccompanied child migrants as they journey through Mexico in an attempt to reach the United States.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 38
Star TrekMovie · 2009 · 127m · Science Fiction, Action, AdventureThe galaxy's future depends on two rivals: James Kirk, a rebellious farm boy with a thirst for adventure, and Spock, a Vulcan raised to suppress emotion and embrace logic. Their contrasting approaches create a powerful partnership as they navigate perilous situations with their crew, venturing into uncharted territory. This marks the start of a new chapter in human exploration.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 39
InvictusMovie · 2009 · 134m · Drama, HistoryFollowing apartheid's end, President Nelson Mandela recognizes deep racial and economic divisions within South Africa. Hoping to unite the country through sport, he inspires the nation's rugby team as they achieve a historic run to the 1995 Rugby World Cup Championship.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 40
Transformers: Revenge of the FallenMovie · 2009 · 150m · Science Fiction, Action, AdventureSam Witwicky tries to settle into an ordinary life, leaving his friends the Autobots behind. However, strange symbols begin appearing in his mind, drawing the attention of the Decepticons. Suddenly, Sam is pulled back into the Transformers' conflict.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.2 - 41
The New TenantsMovie · 2009 · 20mTwo men starting over in a new apartment face a disastrous move, greeted by an intrusive neighbor, a strange drug dealer, and a vengeful husband. The apartment itself holds a dark past, unfolding in a film that blends humor, suspense, and unexpected romance.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0 - 42
The MessengerMovie · 2009 · 113m · Drama, RomanceReturning home from Iraq, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Will Montgomery is assigned to the Army's Casualty Notification service, where he and Captain Tony Stone deliver news of fallen soldiers to their families. Montgomery becomes connected to Olivia Pitterson, the widow of a soldier to whom he conveyed the devastating news of her husband’s death.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 43
PreciousMovie · 2009 · 110m · DramaHarlem, 1987. Sixteen-year-old Claireece "Precious" Jones faces unimaginable hardship. Pregnant again by her father, who is absent from her life, Precious endures a brutal home life dominated by an abusive mother. At school, amidst chaos, Precious has surprisingly maintained good grades while hiding a devastating secret: she is illiterate.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 44
The Last StationMovie · 2009 · 112m · Drama, RomanceThis historical drama explores Russian author Leo Tolstoy's conflict between fame and fortune and his desire for a simple life. Tolstoy's wife, Countess Sofya, manipulates his close friend, believing he influenced Tolstoy to change his will, leaving his literary works and possessions to the public.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4 - 45
The DoorMovie · 2008 · 17mIn the aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, a father bravely returns to his abandoned apartment to recover his front door.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 46
Music by PrudenceMovie · 2010 · 33mMusic by Prudence follows a young woman and her band as they rise above incredible challenges, proving that disability does not equal inability through their own powerful voices. The film has become a vital tool for disability rights advocacy, embraced by organizations like the UN and Human Rights Watch for its unique portrayal of persons with disabilities. Prudence's hopeful and inspiring message has resonated deeply with audiences and critics across North America, earning it an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short and numerous other accolades, while continuing to reach new viewers.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 47
NineMovie · 2009 · 118m · Drama, Music, RomanceMovie director Guido Contini, arrogant and self-absorbed, is searching for meaning in his life and a script for his new film. With a week until production starts, he desperately seeks answers and inspiration from his wife, his mistress, his muse, and his mother.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.5 - 48
The Princess and the FrogMovie · 2009 · 98m · Animation, Romance, FantasyA waitress determined to open her own restaurant embarks on a quest to break a curse and transform a frog prince back into a man. However, she discovers that kissing him only results in her facing the same predicament.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 49
French RoastMovie · 2008 · 8m · AnimationAt a sophisticated café in Paris, a meticulous businessman realizes he's forgotten his wallet. He patiently waits, ordering additional coffee as he figures out a solution.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 50
Julie & JuliaMovie · 2009 · 123m · Romance, DramaThe memoirs of Julia Child and Julie Powell connect two women adrift in their lives. Despite living in different eras and locations, both find a renewed sense of purpose when they realize that with passion, courage, and a little butter, anything can be achieved.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 51
The Milk of SorrowMovie · 2009 · 94m · DramaFausta is afflicted with a rare condition called the Milk of Sorrow, a disease passed through breast milk from mothers who experienced abuse during or shortly after pregnancy. Living with constant fear and disorientation because of this illness, she is confronted with the unexpected death of her mother. Determined to avoid a similar fate, Fausta decides to take extreme action.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 52
Inglourious BasterdsMovie · 2009 · 153m · Drama, Thriller, WarDuring World War II in Nazi-occupied France, a unit of Jewish-American soldiers called "The Basterds" is tasked with spreading terror within the Third Reich through brutal acts of violence against Nazis. Led by Lieutenant Aldo Raine, The Basterds encounter a French-Jewish teenager who operates a movie theater in Paris – a theater that becomes a target for the soldiers.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.2 - 53
The Last Truck: Closing of a GM PlantMovie · 2009 · 40mThis is the story of the final days at a General Motors plant in Moraine, Ohio, told from the perspective of the workers who kept the assembly line running.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.8 - 54
Miracle FishMovie · 2010 · 17mOn his eighth birthday, Joe experiences a day he won't soon forget. Following a bullying incident with his friends, he retreats to the school sick bay and wishes for everyone to disappear. He awakens to the unsettling possibility that his wish has been granted.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.2 - 55
CoralineMovie · 2009 · 100m · Animation, Family, FantasyIn a dull new town, eleven-year-old Coraline explores her old house and finds a secret door leading to a seemingly perfect alternate world. To remain there, she faces a terrifyingly real choice.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.9 - 56
District 9Movie · 2009 · 112m · Science FictionThirty years ago, aliens landed on Earth seeking refuge from their own planet's destruction. Confined to a segregated area in South Africa called District 9, they are overseen by Multi-National United, who prioritize exploiting their advanced technology over their well-being. When a company agent contracts a strange virus that begins transforming his DNA, he finds his only sanctuary in District 9.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 57
The Lady and the ReaperMovie · 2009 · 8m · Animation, ComedyA kind elderly woman lives alone on her farm, anticipating reuniting with her late husband. One night, as she sleeps, she experiences a fading of consciousness and is invited to pass into the afterlife. But just as she is about to cross over, she awakens in a hospital ward. An ambitious doctor has revived her, and he is determined to defy death to keep her alive, no matter the cost.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 58
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood PrinceMovie · 2009 · 153m · Adventure, FantasyWith Lord Voldemort's power growing over both the ordinary and magical worlds, Hogwarts is no longer a place of safety. Harry worries about hidden dangers within the castle, but Dumbledore focuses on preparing him for the inevitable final battle. They team up to find a way to break Voldemort's defenses, and Dumbledore enlists his old friend Horace Slughorn, believing he has vital information. As the ultimate confrontation nears, relationships develop among Harry, Ron, Hermione, and their friends. Love is blossoming, but danger persists, and Hogwarts faces an uncertain future.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.7
