Netflix’s Top New Film Ignored by Oscars

Netflix recently introduced a slew of new movies to its collection, ranging from high-profile releases like Charlize Theron’s Apex to lesser-known films that are flying under the radar. One such gem that I want to shed some light on is Bugonia, a movie that I personally loved but unfortunately didn’t receive any love from the Oscars this year.

Bugonia follows the story of a conspiracy theorist played by Jesse Plemons and his cousin, portrayed by Aiden Delbis, as they kidnap a CEO (Emma Stone), convinced that she is an alien who needs to confess the truth. While the premise may sound strange, the performances in Bugonia are truly exceptional and rank among the best of the year.

Despite Emma Stone’s Best Actress nomination, the award ultimately went to Jessie Buckley for her role in Hamnet. While Buckley’s performance was commendable, I can’t help but feel that Stone’s portrayal in Bugonia was equally deserving of recognition. Perhaps with Stone being the youngest person to receive seven Oscar nominations, there was a sentiment of letting someone else take the spotlight this year.

Jesse Plemons, on the other hand, was not even nominated for Best Actor or Best Supporting Actor, a real shame considering the depth of his performance in Bugonia. Known for his previous Oscar nomination in 2022 for The Power of the Dog, Plemons continues to be a reliable presence in any film he appears in.

Although Bugonia was nominated for Best Picture, it wasn’t able to secure a win in a field that included stiff competition like Sinners and One Battle After Another. While the performances in Bugonia shine brighter than the overall film itself, it remains one of my top picks from last year, despite not taking home any Oscars.

Bugonia may be an acquired taste due to its peculiar storyline and divisive ending, but if you appreciate the talents of Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, or enjoy character-driven dramas, I highly recommend giving it a watch. Despite not making it to Netflix’s top 10 list, it’s worth seeking out for a unique viewing experience.