Hulu, the streaming giant, has rapidly emerged as a major player in the world of entertainment. Not only has it gained a substantial user base for its original series, but it has also ventured into the world of cinema, producing films that have caught the attention of critics and audiences alike. In recent years, several Hulu movies have earned prestigious nominations and awards at the Oscars, showcasing the platform’s commitment to quality storytelling.
In this blog post, we’ll explore seven Hulu movies that made it to the Oscars, proving that streaming platforms can be a powerful force in the film industry.
1. “Nomadland” (2020)
Directed by Chloé Zhao, “Nomadland” is an exceptional example of storytelling that resonated deeply with both critics and audiences. The film revolves around the life of Fern, played brilliantly by Frances McDormand, who becomes a modern-day nomad after the economic collapse of a company town in rural Nevada. Chloé Zhao’s direction captured the raw beauty of the American landscape, and the film’s subtle and heartfelt storytelling made it an instant classic.
“Nomadland” was not only nominated for multiple Oscars but also made history by winning three of the most coveted awards: Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Frances McDormand. This remarkable achievement solidified Hulu’s reputation as a platform that could produce and distribute Oscar-worthy content.
2. “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” (2021)
Directed by Lee Daniels, “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” is a biographical drama that delves into the life of the iconic jazz singer Billie Holiday, portrayed by Andra Day. The film explores Holiday’s struggles with addiction, her tumultuous relationships, and her fearless commitment to singing the controversial song “Strange Fruit” despite opposition from the federal government.
Andra Day’s portrayal of Billie Holiday was nothing short of extraordinary, earning her a well-deserved Oscar nomination for Best Actress. While the film didn’t win any Oscars, it showcased Hulu’s ability to bring important stories to the forefront and offer a platform for exceptional performances.
3. “The Sound of Metal” (2020)
“The Sound of Metal,” directed by Darius Marder, is a powerful and emotionally charged drama that takes viewers on a journey into the world of a heavy metal drummer, Ruben, played by Riz Ahmed. After experiencing sudden hearing loss, Ruben must come to terms with his new reality and find his place in a world that has drastically changed for him.
Riz Ahmed’s breathtaking performance as Ruben earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor, highlighting Hulu’s knack for nurturing talent and producing thought-provoking films. While “The Sound of Metal” didn’t win the Best Picture award, it made a significant impact in the industry and demonstrated that streaming platforms like Hulu can compete with traditional studios when it comes to quality filmmaking.
4. “Palm Springs” (2020)
“Palm Springs,” directed by Max Barbakow, is a refreshingly innovative take on the romantic comedy genre. Starring Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti, the film follows two wedding guests who find themselves stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again. What starts as a comedic escapade gradually evolves into a heartfelt exploration of human connection and personal growth.
While “Palm Springs” may not have secured any Oscars, its inclusion in this list is a testament to Hulu’s ability to produce unique and engaging content. The film’s clever storytelling and memorable performances by Samberg and Milioti earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following, further establishing Hulu as a platform that can cater to a wide range of genres.
5. “Minari” (2020)
“Minari,” directed by Lee Isaac Chung, is a deeply moving drama that tells the story of a Korean-American family’s pursuit of the American Dream in rural Arkansas. The film explores themes of family, identity, and cultural adaptation as the family attempts to establish a successful farm while facing various challenges.
“Minari” received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor in a Leading Role for Steven Yeun. The film’s heartfelt narrative and superb performances resonated with both critics and audiences, underscoring Hulu’s commitment to showcasing diverse and compelling stories.
6. Elvis (2022)
Elvis Presley, an iconic figure in the world of music, finally gets a biopic that does justice to his legendary status. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, “Elvis” stars Austin Butler in the titular role, capturing the essence of Presley’s charisma, talent, and complexities.
The film didn’t just recreate the life of The King; it resonated deeply with the Academy. Garnering a whopping eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, it’s evident that the film’s craftsmanship was unparalleled. Key nominations included Actor in a Leading Role for Butler’s transformative performance, Cinematography for its visual brilliance, and Film Editing, which seamlessly wove together the tapestry of Presley’s life. The nominations for Makeup and Hairstyling, Production Design, and Sound further attest to the meticulous attention to detail that went into recreating the era of rock ‘n’ roll.
7. Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
In a cinematic landscape filled with tales of superheroes and space explorers, “Everything Everywhere All At Once” stands out as a unique gem. The film, starring Michelle Yeoh as Evelyn Wang, takes audiences on a whirlwind journey through a multiverse, blending genres and defying expectations.
With 11 Oscar nominations, this film was the talk of the town. Not only was it nominated, but it also clinched several prestigious awards, including Best Picture. The wins for Directing and Writing (Original Screenplay) highlight the innovative storytelling and visionary direction that set this film apart. Its blend of action, drama, and comedy, combined with a compelling narrative, made it a favorite among both critics and audiences.
Conclusion
Hulu has proven itself to be a formidable player in the film industry, producing movies that not only capture the hearts of viewers but also earn recognition at the Oscars. The success of films like “Nomadland,” “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” “The Sound of Metal,” “Palm Springs,” and “Minari” showcases the platform’s dedication to quality storytelling, diverse narratives, and talent development. As streaming services continue to evolve, Hulu’s contributions to the world of cinema remind us that exceptional filmmaking can come from unexpected sources, reaffirming the importance of innovation and creativity in the entertainment industry. Though, one thing that is to be noted here is that Hulu is only available outside USA and to watch Hulu in Czech Republic, Australia, Canada, and elsewhere you will need a VPN.
