Winning Best Picture at the Academy Awards is supposed to be the ultimate achievement in filmmaking.
But just because amovie wins doesnt mean it will be remembered.
Some films become timeless classics that are rewatched, analyzed, and loved for generations.
Custom Image by Federico Napoli
They fade into obscurity, becoming nothing more than a piece of Oscar trivia.
Looking back, it’s clear that the Academy often plays it safe.
But does anyone actually rewatch it today?
Image via Alamy
The film isremembered more for its Oscar sweep than for its impact on pop culture.
Even back then, its long runtime made it a tough watch.
The film won Best Picture despite Affleck not being nominated for Best Director, making it an unusual victor.
Even that years acting winners, likeJennifer LawrenceforSilver Linings Playbook, have faced backlash in recent years.
WhileArgois a well-made film, itsnot one of the defining movies of the decade.
Its a fun, visually appealing film with good cinematography, but thats about it.
Image via Warner Bros.
That year, George StevensGiantwas the frontrunner with 10 nominations, and Stevens even took home Best Director.
ButAround the World in 80 Daysmanaged to snag Best Picture along with 4 other Oscarswithout even having acting nominations.
Ultimately, the biggest story that year wasLeonardo DiCapriofinally winning an OscarforThe Revenant.
However, this film is far more respected for its message than its filmmaking.
It beatCrossfireand the holiday classicMiracle on 34th Street, both of which have aged better.
It was a fine win, but it simply doesnt have the iconic status ofCitizen Kane.
Image via United Artists
Today,this solid albeit unremarkable movieis mostly remembered as the one that stoleOrson Welles Oscar glory.
Compared toThe DescendantsorMidnight in Paris,The Artistfeels likea novelty film rather than a timeless classic.
Even more bizarre,The Bad and the Beautifulwon 5 Oscars but wasnt even nominated for Best Picture.
If there was evera Best Picture winner that felt like pure Hollywood spectacle, its this one.
It was an important achievement for representation, butthe film itself has been largely forgotten.
However, independent studios released somegood movies during the pandemic, such asPromising YoungWoman.
Image via Entertainment One Features
Next:Every Best Cinematography Nominee at the 2025 Academy Awards, Ranked
Image via 20th Century Studios
Image via 20th Century Studios
Image via Orion Pictures
Image via Warner Bros. France
Image via Paramount Pictures
Image via Searchlight Pictures
