Many people tune in annually to watch their favorite films compete at the Academy Awards. The glamorous evening is a hub for favored actors and is held in the filmmaking capital of the United States: Hollywood. 

The 95th Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, were held March 12. The event was started in 1929 when the Hollywood film industry began to take off. The ceremony awards people and movies released in the year prior with a golden statue of a knight. 

Highly esteemed films, actors, actresses and production members were acknowledged for best picture, best director and more. However, what films are actually worth the watch? 

1. “Everything Everywhere All at Once”

Best picture is one of the most, if not the most, prestigious awards at the Oscars, and “Everything Everywhere All at Once” took the prize home this year. The film was up against some of the biggest movies of the year, such as “Avatar: The Way of Water” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”

This science fiction film has a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and tells the story of a Chinese-American immigrant traveling through the multiverse to prevent a powerful being from destroying it. This film highlights the theme of an underdog coming to the rescue, accompanied by lots of action and comedy. 

Michelle Yeoh stars in the film as Evelyn Wang and was the first Asian woman to win the best lead actress at the Oscars. The film also took home the winning title for a total of seven awards at the ceremony. 

2. “Avatar: The Way of Water”

This film is the sequel to the 2009 film “Avatar,” which is the highest-grossing film of all time, making just under $3 billion. “Avatar” films are known for their high-quality cinematography and effects. This year, “Avatar: The Way of Water” won best visual effects at the Oscars.

The film highlights the two main characters traveling the land known as Pandora and preparing to fight a war against humans. With a 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film continues the story from its prequel. Starring Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana, this film is filled with action, science fiction and a love story all packed into three hours and 12 minutes.

3. “The Whale”

“The Whale” is a drama that depicts an overweight English teacher living alone in Idaho trying his best to reconnect with his teenage daughter. Throughout his hardships, the father desperately gives everything he has in order to mend the strained relationship. 

This year, the film earned awards for best makeup and hairstyling, best supporting actress and best actor. The movie highlights the difficult relationships many children and parents experience. Starring Brendan Fraser and Sadie Sink, this film pulls the heartstrings of viewers with its dramatic cinematography and subtle comedic aspects. Despite its 65% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, many viewers cherished the film for its unique yet relatable plot. 

The art of filmmaking is beloved by so many individuals, and the Oscars highlight the hard work and creativity of actors, directors and so many others in the industry. If you find yourself with some free time, these three movies are sure to live up to the nominations and awards granted to them. 

Reach Katherine Borsting at entertainment@collegian.com or on Twitter @katbor2025.