Oscars 2014: 18 Sublime Moments That Define Best Picture Nominees

4. He's Dead, Isn't He? - Philomena

For a while, Philomena feels like a film that is going to go one of two ways: either our central characters will find the long lost son of Philomena alive for a happy ending, or that they will uncover his death for a tragic ending. Needless to say, it is revealed that the son is dead, but it surprisingly comes as an unexpected twist around halfway through the film. What's even more surprising is that the realization comes after Philomena and Martin get into a bit of an argument regarding their polarizing personalities. After Martin hits the jackpot with his Internet research, Philomena's cheerful and optimistic view of the world dissipates somewhat, leaving Martin's exterior toughness cracked as he allows her to weep her tears on his shoulders in emotional distress. It's the moment where the bond becomes a little closer, but it all wouldn't work without the fantastic performances by Judi Dench and Steve Coogan.