I have always grappled with reviewing documentaries. The cinematic elements are often time more muted than in fiction films, although there are exceptions to this of course. Documentaries are defined by formula. It is nice, then, to see documentaries that go above and beyond the simple formula.

Here are my picks for the Best Documentary nominations.

Best Documentary

• 13th
• Cameraperson
• I Am Not Your Negro
• Life, Animated
• O.J.: Made in America

Will Win: O.J.: Made in America

 

These five films feel like the selections off of the Academy shortlist that have carved out a name for themselves. Options like The Ivory Game or The Eagle Huntress may also be in the running. I was also a fan of Weiner, but I don’t think it will make the cut.

The 7-hour epic O.J.: Made in America seems like the shoo-in choice to win the award given the massive undertaking the film must have been to put together. 13th is also quite good, and it probably would be the frontrunner in another year.

 

As always, thanks for reading!

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—Alex Brannan (@TheAlexBrannan)