Oscars 2021: Ranking The Best Picture Nominees From Worst To Best

It is strange and a little sad that the likely Best Picture winner of the year is the sixth best film out of the lot. It doesn't mean Nomadland is a bad film, in fact it is a great film, it just lacks the emotional gut punch required to leave a lasting impact that the remaining five films deliver.

After Fern loses everything including her husband, she decides to live life on the road in her van. Frances McDormand is excellent here and will always keep you entertained at a bare minimum. The overwhelming majority of characters in the film are played by non-professional actors and actual nomads, some of whom didn't even realise McDormand was an actor herself. This brings an added level of authenticity and some of their stories are truly touching.

Nomadland often feels like an unconventional mood board rather than a narrative experience. The visuals are exceptional and director Chloe Zhao will regularly linger on shots so we can digest the beautifully captured scenery.

It won't be for everyone but it is still an incredibly immersive experience that captures the soul of its main character in every frame and that is likely why it will be recognised with the Academy's top honour.