Five films to check out before this years Oscars

The 2015 Academy Awards nominations were announced yesterday, and although there were some snubs (sorry Jennifer Aniston!), the list for Bect Picture looks pretty solid!

Eight films made the shortlist, but we've narrowed down five that we reckon are well worth a watch. Some of these are already out on DVD, so you won't have to waste ALL your money on cinema tickets!

Birdman
Where to watch: Currently in cinemas
What to expect: Michael Keaton plays a washed-up actor trying to regain credibility in this dark comedy. Once the star of the Birdman superhero films, Riggan Thomson tries to make a comeback on the stage. Naomi Watts, Emma Stone and Zach Galifianakis also star. Michael was nominated for a Best Actor gong for his role as Riggan, while Emma Stone was nominated for her role as his long-sufferring daughter.

 

Boyhood
Where to watch: DVD, currently re-released in selected cinemas
What to expect: Richard Linklater's stunning coming-of-age drama is hotly tipped to win big at this years Oscars. The film charts the growth of Mason (Ellar Coltrane) from the ages of seven to 18 – the lead members of the cast gathered to shoot scenes every year for over a decade. Ethan Hawke, who also starred in Linklater's films Before Sunrise, Before Sunset and Before Midnight plays Mason's dad.

 

Grand Budapest Hotel
Where to watch: DVD
What to expect: The film tells the story of Gustave H, the concierge at the legendary Grand Budapest hotel, and lobby worker Zero Mustafa who becomes his most trusted employee and friend. You'll be craving a treat after seeing Mendl's stunning Courtesan au Chocolat!

 

The Imitation Game
Where to watch: Re-released in selected cinemas on 12th February
What to expect: Benedict Cumberbatch stuns in this incredible biopic based on the life of WW2 code breaker Alan Turing and his efforts to break the Nazi's Enigma code. The film also charts other key events in Turing's life – some of which are immeasurably tragic. Benedict's Best Actor nomination is well-deserved.

 

The Theory of Everything
Where to watch: Currently in cinemas
What to expect: The early years of physicist Stephen Hawking's life and his turbulent first marriage are charted in this emotional drama. Best Actor hopeful Eddie Redmayne plays Hawking, who was diagnosed with motor neuron disease aged just 21.