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Oscar-Winning Movies: 15 Must-See Award-Winning Films

Discover 15 must-see Oscar-winning movies. From classics to modern masterpieces, explore our guide to the best award-winning films.


Oscar-winning movies are celebrated for their outstanding achievements in various aspects of filmmaking. Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or new to the world of cinema, these films offer a captivating experience that’s worth exploring. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top Oscar-winning movies you must see, spanning different genres and eras.

Timeless Classic Oscar-Winning Movies You Must See

Explore the timeless classics that have shaped the landscape of cinema.

Gone with the Wind (1939)

Gone with the Wind (1939)

Plot: Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, this epic historical romance tells the story of Scarlett O’Hara, the strong-willed daughter of a Georgia plantation owner, and her tumultuous relationship with Rhett Butler.

Awards: Won 8 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress.

Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

The Godfather (1972)

The Godfather (1972)

Plot: This crime drama chronicles the powerful Italian-American crime family of Don Vito Corleone. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and featuring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, the film explores themes of power, loyalty, and corruption.

Awards: Won 3 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Where to Watch: Available on Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

Casablanca (1942)

Casablanca (1942)

Plot: In the midst of World War II, an American expatriate meets a former lover, with unforeseen complications. Known for its memorable quotes and romance, ‘Casablanca’ remains a beloved classic.

Awards: Won 3 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

Must-Watch Modern Oscar-Winning Movies

Discover the contemporary masterpieces that have earned critical acclaim in recent years.

Parasite (2019)

Parasite (2019)

Plot: This South Korean film tells the story of the poor Kim family scheming to become employed by the wealthy Park family and infiltrate their household. A thrilling social commentary on class disparities, ‘Parasite’ is both suspenseful and thought-provoking.

Awards: Won 4 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film.

Where to Watch: Available on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

The Shape of Water (2017)

The Shape of Water (2017)

Plot: Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this fantasy romance follows a mute woman who forms a unique relationship with a captured amphibian creature in a high-security government laboratory during the Cold War era.

Awards: Won 4 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Production Design, and Best Original Score.

Where to Watch: Available on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

La La Land (2016)

La La Land (2016)

Plot: This modern musical tells the story of an aspiring actress and a jazz musician who struggle to maintain their relationship while pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles. Its vibrant portrayal of love and ambition captivated audiences worldwide.

Awards: Won 6 Oscars, including Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Original Score.

Where to Watch: Available on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

Underrated Oscar Winners You Shouldn’t Miss

These films may not be as widely known but are definitely worth your time.

The Hurt Locker (2008)

The Hurt Locker (2008)

Plot: A tense portrayal of a bomb disposal team during the Iraq War, directed by Kathryn Bigelow. The film provides a gripping look at the psychological toll of warfare.

Awards: Won 6 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.

Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and Apple iTunes.

Moonlight (2016)

Moonlight (2016)

Plot: This poignant coming-of-age story, directed by Barry Jenkins, explores themes of identity, sexuality, and family through the life of a young black man growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami.

Awards: Won 3 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Where to Watch: Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

The Artist (2011)

The Artist (2011)

Plot: A tribute to Hollywood’s silent era, this film tells the story of a silent film actor struggling to adapt to the arrival of talkies. Its charming storytelling and nostalgic style earned it numerous accolades.

Awards: Won 5 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor.

Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, and Google Play Movies.

Family-Friendly Oscar-Winning Movies for All Ages

Perfect picks for family movie night that have earned the Academy’s seal of approval.

Finding Nemo (2003)

Finding Nemo (2003)

Plot: An animated adventure about a clownfish named Marlin who journeys across the ocean to find his missing son, Nemo. Along the way, he encounters memorable characters and learns valuable lessons about courage and perseverance.

Awards: Won 1 Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

Where to Watch: Available on Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

Up (2009)

Up (2009)

Plot: Another animated gem from Pixar, ‘Up’ tells the moving story of Carl, an elderly man who ties thousands of balloons to his house to fulfill his dream of seeing South America, and the young boy who inadvertently becomes his companion.

Awards: Won 2 Oscars, including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score.

Where to Watch: Available on Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Plot: The first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture, this classic Disney movie tells the enchanting tale of Belle, a young woman who falls in love with a prince cursed to live as a beast until he finds true love.

Awards: Won 2 Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.

Where to Watch: Available on Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple iTunes.

How to Watch Oscar-Winning Movies

Streaming Services

Many Oscar-winning movies are available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and Hulu. These services offer a wide selection of award-winning films for convenient viewing.

Renting or Purchasing

You can rent or purchase these films on services like Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, and YouTube Movies. This option provides access to a broad library of movies without subscription commitments.

Special Screenings

Keep an eye out for special screenings at local theaters or film festivals for a unique viewing experience. Watching an Oscar-winning movie on the big screen can be a memorable event.

Oscar-winning movies offer some of the best cinematic experiences available. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, these films have something for everyone. Start exploring our recommendations and discover the magic of Oscar-winning cinema today.

If you enjoyed our guide to Oscar-winning movies, be sure to check out our article on Top 10 Movies to Watch When You’re Bored. It’s filled with entertaining picks perfect for when you need a great film to lift your spirits. Visit our website to discover more!

QAR (Questions and Answers for Ranking):

Q: What are some must-see Oscar-winning movies?

A: Some must-see Oscar-winning movies include classics like ‘Gone with the Wind,’ ‘The Godfather,’ and ‘Casablanca,’ as well as modern masterpieces like ‘Parasite,’ ‘The Shape of Water,’ and ‘La La Land.’ These films have been recognized for their exceptional storytelling, direction, and performances, making them essential viewing for any movie enthusiast.

Q: Where can I watch Oscar-winning movies online?

A: Many Oscar-winning movies are available on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and Hulu. Additionally, you can rent or purchase these films on services like Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, and YouTube Movies.

Q: Why should I watch Oscar-winning movies?

A: Watching Oscar-winning movies allows you to experience the pinnacle of cinematic excellence. These films have been recognized by the Academy for their outstanding achievements in various aspects of filmmaking, including direction, screenplay, acting, and production. They offer compelling stories, exceptional performances, and unique perspectives that have resonated with audiences and critics worldwide.

Q: What makes a movie an Oscar winner?

A: A movie becomes an Oscar winner by receiving an Academy Award, which is given by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Films are evaluated across various categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and more. Winning an Oscar signifies a high level of achievement and recognition in the film industry.

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