Folks, we've finally made it! The end zone of awards season is upon us, as the 91st Academy Awards have dropped their nominations, and they're as interesting as you'd expect. If you want to see the total list of nominations, you can find them elsewhere. What we're here to discuss is something even more important: how you, the viewing public, can get to see all of this year's nominated films in time for the big show.
Whether you're a home theater buff or you need the scent of fresh popcorn wafting through the air, you're covered with our guide to the best and brightest films 2018 had to offer! So straighten your outfits and prepare your speeches thanking us, as we run through this year's Oscar nominated films and where to find them!
Theatrical Marathon Events
Over the past decade or so, movie theater chains have seriously stepped up their game when it comes to providing the entire nominated class to the public. In particular, AMC Theaters seemed to lead the trend over the course of 13 years. So naturally, its Best Picture Showcase is returning for the 13th consecutive year, which looks to be running in pretty much the same way it's always been run. With that marathon, you can choose to either spread the wealth across the two weekends (February 16th and 23rd) before the Oscars, or if you're daring, you can run the 24 hour marathon in select locations.
However, if you're looking to pace yourself or just see select nominees in the theater, then your best bet is with theater chains like Regal Cinemas or Cinemark. For $35, you can check out as many Best Picture nominees as you want, at any time you want, through a scheduled run that takes you from the middle of February to the end of the month. Regal's marathon runs between February 15th to February 24th, while Cinemark's marathon starts on February 18 and ends on the same day. Though you may want to check the listings of your local locations, as availability through those chains is subject to change.
One final note before we move on: there's one film you will probably not be able to catch in any of these theatrical line-ups: Netflix's Roma. As it turns out, since the film was not previously licensed for theatrical distribution with AMC or Regal, so it will not be included in the Best Picture lineup for either chain. With that out of the way, let's take a look at how you can catch each film individually.
A Star Is Born
Synopsis: A country singer (Bradley Cooper) and a rising pop star (Lady Gaga) engage in a romance that puts her on the path to fame, and him on a downward spiral.
Is It Still In Theaters: Yes. Despite its initial release last October, A Star Is Born has been brought back to theaters recently to bring in some of that awards season money.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: A Star Is Born is currently available on Digital HD, with 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD releases all dropping on February 19.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Synopsis: The life and times of Freddie Mercury and Queen are told through musical numbers, video reenactments and a dramatic narrative.
Is It Still In Theaters: Yes. Being the monstrous hit that it is, Bohemian Rhapsody has gotten cozy in theaters since its run began last November.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: Bohemian Rhapsody drops on Digital HD today, with 4K/Blu-ray/DVD all set for release on February 12.
Green Book
Synopsis: Thrown together by fate, Tony Vallelonga (Viggo Mortensen) and Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali) take a road trip in the deep South of the 1960s, becoming friends along the way.
Is It Still In Theaters: Yes. Green Book still has a theatrical presence, with its initial run starting in mid November. Though the offerings may be limited, so check your local listings carefully.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: The physical release for Green Book will hit 4K/Blu-ray/DVD on March 5, with the Digital HD release set for February 19.
Vice
Synopsis: Through decades of service in Washington D.C. politics, Dick Cheney went from power broker to the second most powerful man in town, redefining an era of international relations in the process.
Is It Still In Theaters: Yes. Vice opened in theaters on Christmas Day, so there's plenty of shelf life left on the film's theatrical contingent.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: Vice currently does not have a confirmed release date for Digital HD or home video, probably due to it being so close to the film's theatrical release window. As soon as we have that information, we'll update accordingly.
The Favourite
Synopsis: Two women (Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz) duke it out in an escalating rivalry, with the affections of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) acting as the grand price.
Is It Still In Theaters: The Favourite can still be found in some theaters, as it initially opened in limited release late November, with a wide release occurring not too long after.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: The Favourite has no current confirmed release date for Digital HD or physical release. As soon as we have that information, we'll update accordingly.
Black Panther
Synopsis: After taking the throne of his native Wakanda, King T'Challa must face the challenges of leadership, and a rogue faction who challenges his right to rule.
Is It Still In Theaters: No. Black Panther's record breaking run started last February and ended not too long after Avengers: Infinity War took theaters.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: Black Panther is currently available on Digital HD, as well as physical 4K/Blu-ray/DVD release. It is also available for streaming through Netflix.
BlacKkKlansman
Synopsis: Based on the true story of Ron Stallworth and Flip Zimmerman's infiltration into the Ku Klux Klan, Black Klansman tells the story of one of the most outrageous sting operations ever.
Is It Still In Theaters: No. Black KkKlansman started its theatrical run in August, so the film is well outside of its typical theatrical run.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: BlacKkKlansman is currently available for streaming on Digital HD, as well as in a physical release on 4K/Blu-ray/DVD.
Roma
Synopsis: A slice of life in 1970's Mexico, Roma tells the story of Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), a housemaid for a family going through tumultuous times in a chaotic period of their nation's history.
Is It Still In Theaters: If you want to see Roma on the big screen, you'll want to check your listings carefully. Netflix has released the film in a limited theatrical run, which will more than likely be at your local art-house cinema.
When Will It Be Available On Digital HD/Home Video: Roma is currently streaming on Netflix, with no immediate plans of a physical release.
So there you have it. A field of eight of 2018's most notable films, ready for you the eager public to devour. Don't forget to check local theater listings and read the fine print on those film festival packages very carefully. Otherwise, happy hunting, you golden gods you!
