Iconic films that were completely snubbed by the Oscars
The Oscars may be cinema's most prestigious event but that doesn't mean they always get it right.
Time and time again, the Academy has overlooked films that have gone on to become cult classics cultural touchstones or even masterpieces in their own right.
Whether it was due to genre bias poor timing or simply being ahead of their time these iconic titles were shockingly shut out come awards season.
From blood-soaked westerns to philosophical comedies and unforgettable romances these are the films that deserved Oscar recognition but never even got a foot in the door.
1. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)
Often hailed as the pinnacle of spaghetti westerns, Sergio Leone's epic tale of greed and gunslingers redefined the genre. Yet, the Academy didn't take notice—possibly because westerns weren't seen as serious cinema until decades later, when Clint Eastwood, the film's lead, won big for Unforgiven.
2. The Shining (1980)
Despite its now-iconic status and Stanley Kubrick's masterful direction, this Stephen King adaptation was completely ignored. No nominations, even for Jack Nicholson's terrifying performance or the haunting score. Today, it's considered one of the greatest horror films ever made.
3. Before Sunrise (1995)
Richard Linklater's romantic drama introduced audiences to Jesse and Céline, two strangers whose 24-hour connection became a generational love story. While the sequels earned Oscar nods, the original chapter didn't receive a single nomination.
4. Groundhog Day (1993)
Bill Murray's time-loop comedy is widely celebrated for its clever script, existential themes, and heartwarming charm. It's now a classic, but the Academy completely passed it over in 1993.
5. Zodiac (2007)
David Fincher's meticulous and haunting true-crime thriller about the infamous Zodiac killer was critically lauded but received zero recognition from the Academy. It's since become a cult favourite and one of Fincher's finest.
6. Heat (1995)
This Michael Mann crime saga starred Robert De Niro and Al Pacino together onscreen for the first time. With electric performances and a legendary shootout scene, it seemed like Oscar bait—but somehow, it got nothing.
7. The Big Lebowski (1998)
Jeff Bridges' turn as The Dude became a pop culture phenomenon. The Coen brothers' offbeat comedy didn't land a single nomination, even as it went on to become one of the most quoted and rewatched films of its time.
8. Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
Sergio Leone's sweeping gangster epic starring Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci missed out entirely—largely because its U.S. release was a heavily edited version. Composer Ennio Morricone was also disqualified due to a studio error in the credits.
9. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Quentin Tarantino's explosive debut changed indie cinema and became an instant cult hit. Despite its unforgettable dialogue and impact on filmmaking, it didn't even score a screenplay nomination.
10. In the Mood for Love (2000)
Wong Kar-wai's hypnotic tale of forbidden romance remains one of the most visually stunning and emotionally resonant films ever made. It's revered globally—but the Oscars never acknowledged it.
11. American Psycho (2000)
Christian Bale's chilling portrayal of Patrick Bateman in this razor-sharp satire of yuppie excess has become legendary. The film was divisive at the time, but its influence is undeniable—and yet, it was completely overlooked.
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