Pair the Classics: Double Features to Honor This Year’s Oscar Nominees
So, the Oscars are right around the corner, and you don’t want to be just an observer; you want to be the ultimate movie buff! Enter Maureen Lee Lenker of Entertainment Weekly, who’s here to help you elevate your cinematic game with some killer double feature ideas based on the 2024 Best Picture nominees. Let’s face it, sometimes the most enlightening way to appreciate a film is to watch something that echoes its themes or vibes from the past. Think of it as a film school lesson from your couch—who needs popcorn when you can have a whole buffet of classics at your fingertips?
Take “Anora,” which has already garnered attention with its modern Cinderella twist. It’s being compared to the classic “Pretty Woman” but leans into the darker comedic tones reminiscent of Billy Wilder’s “Irma La Douce.” Both films feature the trope of the “hooker with a heart of gold,” explored with unique comedic flair and underlying critiques of societal norms. Fun fact: Wilder’s film is a timeless classic that remains a bold commentary on gender roles and romantic ideals.
Or how about “The Brutalist,” an original screenplay that finds its spiritual cousin in the film adaptation of Ayn Rand’s “The Fountainhead”? Both flicks reflect the struggles of individualism in a world driven by consumerism and corporate greed. When Gary Cooper’s Howard Roark and Adrien Brody’s László Tóth unleash their architectural visions, they’re not just building; they’re challenging the very fabric of society—a theme that resonates deeply in today’s world of architectural marvels and ethical dilemmas, especially in urban development debates.
Then there’s “Bob Dylan: A Complete Unknown,” which might resonate with fans of both music and cinema. This documentary is a riveting exploration of Dylan during a pivotal time in his career. If you’re in the mood for nostalgia, consider pairing it with Mangold’s biopic for a dynamic look at fame through different lenses.
And for the drama enthusiasts, Lenker’s picks of “Conclave” and Hitchcock’s “I Confess” unveil faith’s complexities and moral dilemmas—great choices for deep thinkers and thriller lovers alike. So grab your remote, hit those classic gems, and let’s spill some real cinematic tea before the Oscars hit our screens.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and Entertainment Weekly, Turner Classic Movies, The Hollywood Reporter
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