Where I find it difficult to compare the merits of screenwriting between films, I think judging the cinematics of a batch of films is somewhat easier. Quality cinematography strikes you in specific and noticeable ways, whereas a good script can sneak up on you. In 2016, we came across a number of visually striking movies. Let’s take a look at which ones will get Oscar nods.

Best Cinematography

• Arrival
• Jackie
• La La Land
• Moonlight
• Silence

Will Win: La La Land

 

The only film not on this list that could sneak in, in my opinion, is Hacksaw Ridge. But, while that film is shot and directed strongly, I think that is a film made cinematic more so in the editing room than in the camera.

Arrival is a Villeneuve vision, so of course it is shot well. But it is not shot as well as Sicario. I very much enjoy the symmetry of Jackie‘s visual compositions. Moonlight has really striking closeups. La La Land uses depth to its advantage. All of these films deserve nominations.

 

As always, thanks for reading!

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—Alex Brannan (@TheAlexBrannan)