The War of the Worlds in 4K

Alice Walker’s best-selling novel about the struggles and eventual triumphs of a mistreated young woman in early 20th-century Georgia became an emotionally stirring epic under the direction of Steven Spielberg, with Whoopi Goldberg earning a Best Actress nomination for her touching portrayal of Celie, a remarkable starring debut. The film’s 11 nominations include Best Picture, as well as the supporting performances of Margaret Avery as the singer Shug Avery, and Oprah Winfrey (in her film debut) as Sofia.

In person: Marlee Matlin

Alfonso Cuarón’s lovingly detailed drama inspired by his childhood in Mexico earned the filmmaker Oscars for his directing and cinematography, but his expertly chosen cast was a key factor in bringing his story to vivid cinematic life. Best Actress nominee Yalitza Aparicio is Cleo, the devoted housekeeper who faces her own challenges while helping to keep the family together, and Supporting Actress nominee Marina de Tavira is Sofia, the mother of the family, struggling with the breakup of her marriage.

The second feature from filmmaking duo Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (Swiss Army Man) is a surreal fantasy/science fiction/action/comedy/drama about a Chinese American family that owns a laundromat and learns they must explore the multiverse to save their own universe. Michelle Yeoh won a Best Actress Oscar for her dazzling performance in a challenging role, which paid homage to her career as an international film star while basing her character in a complex emotional reality. The film earned 11 nominations and 7 Oscars, including Best Picture, Supporting Actor (Ke Huy Quan), and Supporting Actress (Jamie Lee Curtis).