Oscars 2016: Ranking Every Best Film Nominee From Worst To Best

5. The Martian

The Martian finally finds itself in an appropriate category after the odd decision to list it as an Outstanding Comedy at the Globes. In reality the film works on multiple levels, from dramatic sci-fi, to existentialist survival story. Admittedly, comedy as well, but with the added benefit of those other sub-genres. Matt Damon as stranded astronaut Mark Watney turns in one of his most entertaining performances as we laugh, cry and swear in anger with him at his continued efforts to stay alive on Mars. Mars! His ability to sell the adverse psychological and physical effects of such isolation along with the classic ode-to-the-human-spirit approach is key to the film's overall success. Without him, it just doesn't work, and perhaps wouldn't have been as engaging in the hands of other A-listers who simply aren't as relatable. It's a shame, then, that the unoriginal, illusion-ruining device of Watney having to speak directly to the audience through his video blog can be a little grating. Happily, one of the best films of 2015 (and one of the best sci-fi films ever made) got the nod it deserved.