Nanda Illahi, Okayama University

As the first foreign film to win best picture, this South Korean movie is opening doors for the future of international cinema.

Lisa Lilianstrom, Northern Illinois University

The Academy is obviously lacking when it comes to diversity, and that includes actors with disabilities.

Cameron Rapata, Columbia College Chicago

Tarantino’s fairytale version of the Manson murders packs a punch, and then some.

Abby Webb, Rice University

Year after year, the Academy proves itself ignorant of female-driven stories.

Caleb Dukes, Rice University

There are some critical absences this year. First off: Awkwafina.

Meredith Day, Davidson College

The actor evokes old Hollywood nostalgia while representing a stunning model of modern masculinity.

Jake Mauriello, SUNY New Paltz

Movies like ‘The Farewell’ and ‘Joker’ might have been released a little earlier than most films vying for Academy recognition, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t make a big splash.