I want to start off by saying that you should take awards season with the smallest grain of salt. In no way does a cheesy and overlong telecast determine the best films of the year. But that doesn’t make it any less fun to speculate and criticize the nominations.

While 2018 was one of the best in a long time for film, there are few movies in contention for awards that I actually enjoyed.

First, let’s get my least favorite films out of the way.

Recently, the Golden Globes awarded the films “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Green Book,” two movies I do not endorse on the screen or off. These films are completely by-the-numbers, bland biopics that skirt around any “controversial” matters. Both films’ directors, Bryan Singer and Peter Farrelly, have been accused of various forms of harassment, but are currently flying completely under the radar. This feels like a major step back for the #MeToo movement; I hope these films don’t win more awards because all that would do is support toxic and unsafe film sets.

For years, I’ve wished that the awards would acknowledge a more diverse range of genre films (sci-fi, fantasy, action, horror, etc.). Finally, the Academy is starting to open their gates to diversity, but, unfortunately, they are choosing some pretty average ones.

The lead contender this year is “Black Panther.” While this movie is entertaining, there is no reason for it to be nominated for Best Picture. It is purely publicity that has built this film up, there have been far superior superhero films in the past that have not been recognized. “Black Panther” is inspirational for its casting and for how well it did at the box office, even though the actual movie is pretty standard.

As a huge Marvel fan, most years I would be thrilled for one to be nominated, but this year produced many other fantastic genre films that I wish were being recognized. For example, “Sorry To Bother You” was a hilarious and completely insane satire that also featured a predominantly black cast. Or “Revenge,” a female-empowerment/revenge story that oozes with style. Unfortunately, neither of these movies are getting the acclaim they deserve.

Of course, there are some films getting awards buzz that I particularly liked. My favorite film of the year is ironically, “The Favourite.” By far THIS is the most entertaining movie of the year, due to the spectacular trio of Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz. Each of these actresses embody unique characters who all play off each other brilliantly. It is hilarious, weird, awkward, disturbing and a movie I will revisit for years to come.

Another film in contention for nominations is the revolutionary movie “Roma.” Not only is the lead a Mexican woman, but it’s shot in black-and-white with carefully choreographed long takes. The heart-wrenching performances result in an experience like no other this year.

That’s a wrap! Be sure to check out the Oscars on February 24. I also highly recommend the Film Independent Spirit Awards on February 23. Their nominations are more within my taste and it’s hosted by the hilarious Aubrey Plaza. These films need all the support they can get so they can get funding alongside huge blockbusters, so make sure to check out “The Favourite” and “Roma” and root for their victories alongside me at the upcoming award shows.