Oscars 2012: Diverse Themes in Top Films You Need to See
60 titles
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The Tree of LifeMovie · 2011 · 139m · Drama, FantasyThis film is an impressionistic look at a Texas family in the 1950s. It follows Jack, the eldest son, from childhood into adulthood as he struggles to understand his complicated relationship with his father. Lost in the changing modern world, Jack searches for meaning and purpose, questioning both faith and the nature of existence.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 2
The Iron LadyMovie · 2011 · 105m · History, DramaThis film explores the life of Margaret Thatcher, Britain's former Prime Minister, examining the personal sacrifices she made to achieve and maintain power.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 3
Chico & RitaMovie · 2010 · 93m · Animation, Music, RomanceChico is a young piano player with ambitious aspirations. Rita is a captivating singer possessing a remarkable voice. Drawn together by music and love, their story follows the classic bolero tradition, filled with both emotional pain and suffering.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 4
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris LessmoreMovie · 2012 · 15m · Adventure, AnimationFollowing a devastating hurricane that destroys his city, a young man stumbles upon a strange library where the books inside magically awaken. This film received the 2012 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 5
Monsieur LazharMovie · 2011 · 94m · Drama, ComedyIn the depths of a brutal Montreal winter, an elementary school class is devastated by the suicide of their teacher. Bachir Lazhar, a compelling Algerian immigrant, becomes their substitute, tasked with guiding the traumatized children. He carefully hides his own struggles: seeking political refuge in Quebec and carrying the weight of a profound personal loss, mirroring the children's pain.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 6
Albert NobbsMovie · 2011 · 113m · DramaIn late 19th century Ireland, Albert Nobbs faces hardship as a woman is expected to be dependent. To find work as a butler in Dublin's finest hotel, Albert disguises herself as a man. While there, she meets a charming painter and begins to dream of a life beyond her deception.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 7
The ArtistMovie · 2011 · 100m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceHollywood, 1927. Silent film icon George Valentin worries about his future as talking pictures threaten the industry. He finds himself drawn to Peppy Miller, a promising young dancer hoping for her moment in the spotlight.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 8
MoneyballMovie · 2011 · 134m · DramaThis is the true story of Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics, who revolutionized baseball by building a competitive team with limited financial resources. He used innovative computer analysis to identify undervalued players during the draft, proving that success wasn't solely about money.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 9
Margin CallMovie · 2011 · 108m · Thriller, DramaThis thriller follows the core group of individuals at an investment bank over the course of a single day as the financial crisis begins to unfold.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 10
A Morning StrollMovie · 2011 · 7mAcross three different time periods, a man is unexpectedly confronted by a chicken while walking.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 11
HugoMovie · 2011 · 126m · Adventure, Drama, FamilyIn 1930s Paris, Hugo Cabret lives a solitary life within the walls of a train station with his uncle. His daily routine involves maintaining the station's clocks, but his true focus is on a broken automaton and a notebook left by his father. With the help of the toy merchant's goddaughter, Hugo sets out to uncover the mystery behind the automaton and discover a sense of belonging.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 12
Jane EyreMovie · 2011 · 120m · Drama, RomanceFollowing a difficult childhood, Jane Eyre becomes a governess. She finds contentment at Thornfield Hall, where she encounters Mr. Rochester, the estate's reserved and intense owner. Jane and Mr. Rochester develop a close friendship, and Jane falls in love with him. Just as happiness seems within reach, Mr. Rochester's dark secret threatens to shatter everything.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 13
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2Movie · 2011 · 130m · Adventure, FantasyHarry, Ron, and Hermione press on with their fight against Voldemort. As their situation appears increasingly dire, Harry uncovers three magical objects that grant him abilities comparable to Voldemort’s.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1 - 14
The DescendantsMovie · 2011 · 115m · Comedy, DramaWhen his wife Elizabeth is on life support following a boating accident, Hawaiian land baron Matt King takes his daughters on a journey from Oahu to Kauai. Their destination: to confront a young real estate broker who had been having an affair with Elizabeth.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 15
Kung Fu Panda 2Movie · 2011 · 91m · Animation, Family, ComedyPo and his friends must stop a villainous peacock from taking over China using a dangerous new weapon. But before they can do that, the Dragon Warrior must confront his history.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 16
The ShoreMovie · 2011 · 29mTwo close friends are separated by 25 years of unspoken issues as tensions rise in Northern Ireland. Their lives diverge significantly until Joe returns to his home country with his daughter, Patricia. While he was away, Paddy married Joe’s former fiancée, Mary. What caused their rift? Can they find forgiveness? The story is both funny and deeply touching.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0 - 17
RajuMovie · 2011 · 24mA German couple adopts an Indian orphan in Kolkata. Their child then vanishes, and they come to understand their role in the child's disappearance.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3 - 18
A Better LifeMovie · 2011 · 98m · DramaIn East Los Angeles, a gardener fights to protect his son from gang involvement and immigration authorities, all while commuting to wealthy clients for landscaping jobs throughout the city.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 19
BridesmaidsMovie · 2011 · 125m · Comedy, RomanceAnnie's life is falling apart. When her best friend announces her engagement, Annie feels obligated to be the maid of honor. Despite being heartbroken and short on money, Annie confidently navigates the elaborate wedding preparations. With only one opportunity to make it right, she proves to Lillian and her bridesmaids how much she cares.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 20
A Cat in ParisMovie · 2010 · 70m · Animation, ComedyThis is a suspenseful mystery set against the backdrop of Paris, unfolding throughout a single, eventful night in the city's backstreets and on its rooftops.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 21
The Adventures of TintinMovie · 2011 · 107m · Adventure, Animation, MysteryYoung reporter Tintin and his dog Snowy find themselves in a thrilling adventure when they uncover a ship concealing a dangerous secret. Drawn into a mystery spanning centuries, Tintin becomes the suspect of a priceless treasure thief, Ivan Ivanovitch Sakharine. With the assistance of Captain Haddock and the detectives Thompson and Thomson, Tintin and Snowy journey across the globe, staying ahead of their adversaries in pursuit of the Unicorn, a sunken ship rumored to hold immense wealth and a powerful curse.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 22
Midnight in ParisMovie · 2011 · 94m · Fantasy, Comedy, RomanceDuring a trip to Paris with his fiancée's family, a sentimental screenwriter unexpectedly begins time-traveling to the 1920s each night at midnight.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 23
Extremely Loud & Incredibly CloseMovie · 2011 · 129m · DramaA year after his father dies, Oskar, a troubled young boy, finds a mysterious key he believes his father left for him. He then sets out on a scavenger hunt to find the lock it fits.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 24
Time FreakMovie · 2011 · 10mA highly anxious inventor builds a time machine and accidentally finds himself adrift in the past, specifically yesterday.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 25
WarriorMovie · 2011 · 140m · Drama, ActionA young man returns to his childhood home and begins training with his father, a former boxer, for an upcoming mixed martial arts tournament. This decision forces him into a direct confrontation with his estranged older brother.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.8 - 26
DriveMovie · 2011 · 100m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeDriver is a Hollywood stuntman who secretly works as a getaway driver for criminals. He keeps people at arm's length until he meets his attractive neighbor, Irene, and her son, Benicio. When Irene’s husband is released from prison, he asks Driver to help with a million-dollar robbery. The heist goes wrong, forcing Driver to protect Irene and Benicio from the dangerous people who want revenge.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 27
BeginnersMovie · 2011 · 104m · Drama, Romance, ComedyMonths after his father Hal Fields dies, Oliver meets Anna, a lively and unconventional woman. Their relationship brings back memories of Hal, who, after his wife of 44 years passed away, embraced his sexuality at 75 and embarked on a vibrant, eventful gay life—including a relationship with a younger man.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 28
PinaMovie · 2011 · 106m · Documentary"Pina" is a 3D dance film featuring the renowned Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch company, created by the influential German choreographer who passed away in the summer of 2009.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 29
UndefeatedMovie · 2011 · 113m · DocumentaryUNDEFEATED, from Dan Lindsay and T.J. Martin, follows three student-athletes from inner-city Memphis as they navigate a high school football season. The documentary captures their experiences and the efforts of a volunteer coach to support them both on and off the field. The season becomes a test of resilience as players and coaches confront unexpected challenges that define both football and life.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 30
If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation FrontMovie · 2011 · 85m · Documentary, Crime, HistoryFilmmaker Marshall Curry examines the Earth Liberation Front, a radical group dedicated to disrupting facilities linked to deforestation. The film also profiles Daniel McGowan, an Oregon ELF member who faced terrorism charges due to his activism with the organization.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 31
Puss in BootsMovie · 2011 · 90m · Animation, Family, FantasyBefore he meets Shrek, Puss in Boots, a renowned fighter, lover, and outlaw, becomes a hero. He joins forces with the resourceful Kitty Softpaws and the cunning Humpty Dumpty to rescue his town. This is the story of the legendary Puss in Boots.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 32
AnonymousMovie · 2011 · 130m · Drama, History, ThrillerAgainst the backdrop of Queen Elizabeth I's reign and the Essex Rebellion, the story explores the theory that Edward De Vere, Earl of Oxford, was the true author of Shakespeare's plays.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 33
Hell and Back AgainMovie · 2011 · 88m · Documentary"Hell and Back Again" is a powerfully intimate and visually groundbreaking film that explores the meaning of leadership in war and the experience of returning home. It offers a depth of insight into the Afghanistan conflict unmatched by previous war films, establishing itself as a true masterpiece of the genre.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 34
The MuppetsMovie · 2011 · 103m · Family, Comedy, MusicWhen Kermit the Frog and the Muppets discover their theater is going to be demolished, a kind man named Gary and his puppet brother, Walter, offer assistance. Together, they organize a performance to raise the $10 million needed to save the theater.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 35
Paradise Lost 3: PurgatoryMovie · 2012 · 121m · Documentary, CrimeThis film examines the aftermath of the release of three teenagers who spent nearly 20 years in prison for the murder of three young boys in Arkansas. New DNA evidence suggests they may be innocent, prompting a renewed look at the case.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4 - 36
The Ides of MarchMovie · 2011 · 101m · DramaAn idealistic young press spokesman finds his principles tested in a ruthless presidential campaign, where unethical tactics threaten to undermine everything he believes in.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 37
BullheadMovie · 2011 · 129m · Crime, DramaA young cattle farmer is approached by a dishonest veterinarian with a proposition: a risky deal with a well-known beef trader.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 38
W.E.Movie · 2011 · 119m · Drama, RomanceThe 1998 auction of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor's estate generates considerable buzz. For Wally Winthrop, it holds a deeply personal significance. Captivated by their iconic romance, Wally becomes consumed with their history. As she uncovers the sacrifices made, Wally finds the strength to pursue her own happiness.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 39
A SeparationMovie · 2011 · 123m · DramaA married couple struggles with a painful choice: relocate their child to a new country for a better future, or remain in Iran to care for their aging parent who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.9 - 40
Transformers: Dark of the MoonMovie · 2011 · 154m · Action, Science Fiction, AdventureWorking openly with NEST, the Autobots are on a mission in Chernobyl when they discover an unusual artifact. Optimus Prime realizes that the U.S. government hasn't been completely honest with them.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 41
In DarknessMovie · 2011 · 145m · Drama, War"In Darkness" tells the true story of Leopold Soha, a thief and burglar who risks everything to rescue Jewish refugees in Nazi-occupied Lvov, Poland. Initially motivated by self-interest, he hides a dozen people in the city's sewers for 14 months, protecting them from certain death.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 42
Real SteelMovie · 2011 · 127m · Action, Science Fiction, DramaCharlie Kenton, a former boxer sidelined when robots replaced human fighters, is forced back into the world of combat sports. When his own robot is damaged, he reluctantly joins forces with his estranged son to build and train a surprising new competitor.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 43
The Girl with the Dragon TattooMovie · 2011 · 158m · Thriller, Crime, MysteryJournalist Mikael Blomkvist investigates the 40-year-old disappearance of a man's niece, with the help of Lisbeth Salander, a punk computer hacker with a distinctive style. Their investigation reveals widespread corruption far exceeding their expectations.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 44
The HelpMovie · 2011 · 146m · DramaAibileen Clark, a middle-aged African-American woman who has dedicated her life to raising white children, is grieving the recent loss of her son. Minny Jackson, another African-American maid, frequently clashes with her employers despite her family's financial hardship and constant search for work. Eugenia "Skeeter" Phelan, a young white woman recently returned from college, investigates the mysterious disappearance of her childhood maid. These three women's lives become connected, revealing the central role of "the help" in Jackson, Mississippi, and the subtle yet persistent racial barriers that define their relationships.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.2 - 45
Rise of the Planet of the ApesMovie · 2011 · 105m · Thriller, Action, DramaCaesar, a remarkably intelligent chimpanzee, has enjoyed a calm life in a suburban home from birth. However, his peaceful existence is shattered when he's taken to a harsh primate research facility. Faced with cruelty, Caesar chooses to fight back against those who have wronged him.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 46
RangoMovie · 2011 · 112m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyRango, a pet lizard, gets lost and ends up in the rough town of Dirt. Suddenly, the timid lizard is seen as a hero. The townspeople believe he's the one they've been waiting for. Rango is thrust into the role of sheriff and must fully embrace it.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 47
Saving FaceMovie · 2012 · 40mEach year, hundreds of people, predominantly women, are victims of acid attacks in Pakistan. The film follows several survivors as they pursue justice and a Pakistani plastic surgeon who returns to his country to provide them with reconstructive surgery, helping them rebuild their faces and their lives.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.0 - 48
War HorseMovie · 2011 · 146m · War, History, AdventureJust before World War I, a young man named Albert's horse, Joey, is sold by his father to the army. During the war, Joey's journey is filled with peril, happiness, and heartbreak, profoundly affecting those he encounters. Albert, determined not to lose touch with his horse, embarks on a search across the battlefields of France to find Joey and reunite with him.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 49
God Is the Bigger ElvisMovie · 2012 · 37mThis Oscar-nominated documentary follows a talented young actress who gave up her Hollywood career to join a convent.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 50
The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights MovementMovie · 2011 · 25mThe film follows 85-year-old Mr. Armstrong, an African American barber in Birmingham, Alabama, as he witnesses the fulfillment of a lifelong dream: the election of the first African American president. A veteran of the Civil Rights era, he casts his vote, celebrates Obama's victory, and proudly displays the American flag upon his induction into the Foot Soldiers Hall of Fame. Mr. Armstrong reflects on the significance of this moment, connecting it to past struggles like his sons' school integration and the Bloody Sunday march for voting rights. The documentary explores democracy and patriotism amidst hardship, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and action to overcome racial injustice.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.0 - 51
FootnoteMovie · 2011 · 102m · ComedyIn Jerusalem, Israel, professors Eliezer and Uriel Shkolnik – father and son – have spent their lives studying Jewish scripture. Eliezer, a dedicated but overlooked scholar, contrasts with his successful and celebrated son, Uriel. Their delicate relationship is unexpectedly disrupted by a single phone call.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 52Incident in New BaghdadMovie · 2011 · 22mEthan McCord, a U.S. Army veteran, shares his firsthand account of the devastating events surrounding the 2007 Baghdad helicopter incident. He describes the day American attack helicopters killed two Reuters journalists and several other civilians, mostly unarmed men, on the streets of Baghdad.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.0
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Tinker Tailor Soldier SpyMovie · 2011 · 127m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryDuring the Cold War, retired MI6 agent George Smiley is pulled back into service. His mission: to identify a Soviet spy who has infiltrated the highest ranks of British intelligence among his old colleagues.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 54
La lunaMovie · 2012 · 7m · Animation, Family, FantasyA young boy experiences a pivotal moment as he accompanies his father and grandfather on their first trip to work. They row a small wooden boat far out into the ocean, where they pause, isolated from the shore. The boy is about to discover his family's unique profession. Torn between his father's and grandfather's perspectives and deeply ingrained traditions, he must decide whether to embrace their path or forge his own.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 55
RioMovie · 2011 · 96m · Animation, Adventure, ComedyA macaw named Blu was separated from his flock as a baby and raised by Linda in Minnesota. He's never flown and contentedly lives a domesticated life with her. Believed to be the last of his species, Blu's world changes when they learn of Jewel, another macaw living in Rio de Janeiro. Blu and Linda travel to meet her, but are captured by animal smugglers. They manage to escape and embark on a dangerous journey to freedom – and back to Linda.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 56
SundayMovie · 2011 · 10mA boy with a vivid imagination feels trapped by the predictable routine of his family's Sunday gatherings.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.7 - 57
The Tsunami and the Cherry BlossomMovie · 2011 · 39mIn March 2011, a powerful earthquake and resulting tsunami devastated Japan's Tōhoku region. This film follows the survivors as they begin to rebuild their lives, set against the backdrop of the approaching cherry blossom season. It's a visually poetic story about life's fleeting beauty and the restorative power of the cherry blossom, a symbol deeply cherished in Japan.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 58
Wild LifeMovie · 2011 · 14mA British man moves to the Canadian prairie, encountering both its stunning landscapes and its unforgiving realities.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7 - 59
My Week with MarilynMovie · 2011 · 99m · Drama, RomanceLondon, 1956. Renowned actor and director Laurence Olivier is preparing to film his new movie, which premiered in 1957 as *The Prince and the Showgirl*, starring Marilyn Monroe. Aspiring filmmaker Colin Clark lands a job on the set as third assistant director.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 60
PentecostMovie · 2010 · 11mIreland, 1977. Eleven-year-old Damian Lynch (Scott Graham) is unexpectedly asked to be an altar boy for a significant church service. This is a consequence of a previous incident where he accidentally knocked the priest off the altar, resulting in a three-month ban from playing football – his greatest joy. Adding to his dilemma, Damian’s team, Liverpool FC, are about to play in their first European Cup final in two weeks. His father (Michael McElhatton) gives him a deal: if he performs the mass flawlessly, he can watch the final. Damian must now decide between obedience and missing the chance to see Liverpool play.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
