45 Films from the 1984 Oscars

In 16th-century southern France, the peaceful life of newlyweds Martin Guerre and Bertrande de Rols in the village of Artigat is shattered when Martin disappears after being accused of theft. Years later, a man claiming to be Martin returns. The…

In the 1930s, aspiring writer Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings seeks solitude in the Florida wilderness. While finding some people – men, editors, and neighbors – a bit overwhelming, she eventually finds connection and writes *The Yearling*, which becomes a celebrated work…

This film explores the intense world of a flamenco adaptation of Bizet's opera "Carmen." Choreographer Antonio, talented but insecure, becomes fixated on Carmen, the lead dancer. She is a free spirit who inspires him. As rehearsals progress, their connection grows,…

Mac Sledge, a former country star battling alcoholism and a lost career, finds hope in an unlikely friendship. He connects with a young widow and her son, who provide him with emotional support and inspire him to rediscover his love…

During World War II, a hardworking dresser forms a close bond with a former star actor struggling with his fading career while leading a traveling Shakespearean company. Amidst the destruction of the London blitz, their complex relationship develops against the…

In the quiet town of Hamlin, a normal day turns to chaos as news of devastating nuclear attacks on the East Coast and California spreads. As panic rises and radiation poisoning claims victims, the Wetherly family faces not only their…

A group of old college friends reunite to remember a lost friend. The film shows how their lives have changed since university, exploring the differences that have grown between them as they come together to honor him and reconnect. Through…

Rita, a candid hairdresser in her mid-twenties, enrolls in the Open University to explore her own path. While facing academic hurdles and challenging ideas, she meets Dr. Frank Bryant, a talented but disheartened literature professor. Dr. Bryant is struggling with…

"Leonard Zelig: A Human Chameleon" explores the unusual life of a man who can perfectly imitate those around him. This fictional documentary, set in the 1920s, follows Zelig's surprising ascent to fame as people are fascinated by his ability to…

Alex, a driven teenager, pursues her ambition of becoming a successful ballet dancer while working two part-time jobs. She finds encouragement from Nick, her supportive boss and romantic partner, who shares her aspirations and pushes her to improve. Together, they…

This clay-animated film celebrates New York City, featuring familiar landmarks and personalities. A character strongly reminiscent of former mayor Ed Koch performs a rendition of the "Theme from 'New York, New York'." The film was preserved by the Academy Film…

In a society where women are barred from religious learning, a determined Jewish girl disguises herself as a boy to study sacred texts. While undergoing demanding training, she discovers a gift for understanding ancient writings and develops a deep connection…

Shirley Muldowney is driven to become a top-fuel drag racer, a feat no woman has accomplished before. She continues pursuing her ambition, undeterred by the inherent dangers of the sport and the strain it puts on her family.

Aurora takes an unexpected journey to find love and happiness as her daughter deals with difficulties in her marriage. Aurora's search for true love is both difficult and charming, as she experiences the ups and downs of romance. At the…

This crime thriller centers on two con artists, Hooker and Gondorf, who plot to defraud a ruthless mob boss, Macalinski. They recruit Veronica, a promising new grifter, to help them execute a complicated plan: to make it appear as though…

The film follows a story over five decades centered on a small French ballroom, which witnesses significant changes in society. Beginning in the 1920s, the ballroom becomes a gathering place for generations of people who share a love of dance.…

In Los Angeles, a compelling story begins. Officer Jack Murphy, an experienced helicopter pilot with the city police, carries emotional wounds from his time in the Vietnam War. He struggles with the psychological effects of his past. He’s partnered with…

A Scottish poet, lost in alcoholism and years without writing, is inspired to reclaim his life and his art when he encounters a captivating young woman.

Fanny and Alexander enjoy a happy childhood with their loving parents, who run a theatre company. Their world changes suddenly when their father dies. Suddenly under the care of their mother Emilie, they face a stricter life after she marries…

A researcher undertakes a government mission called The Lupus Project: to assess any danger wolves in the northern wilderness might present to people. Spending six months in their habitat, facing difficult conditions alone, he begins to see wolves in a…

During Prohibition, Atlantic City becomes a haven for lawlessness where politics and organized crime are deeply intertwined. Nucky Thompson, a powerful figure serving as treasurer of the New Jersey town, expertly controls both the legitimate and illegal sides of its…

During World War II, a quiet Polish actor faces both his own difficulties and the growing turmoil in his country. He finds solace on the stage, but his peace is disturbed by his wife's flirtations with young Polish officers. When…

The film tells the compelling story of Karen Silkwood, a committed worker in a plutonium processing plant. While uncovering serious safety violations and corporate cover-ups at her workplace, Karen becomes involved in a perilous situation with potentially devastating consequences. Karen's…

Over 1,000 New York City schoolchildren audition for a modern dance program, giving up free time and other activities, for the opportunity to study with Jacques d'Amboise at the National Dance Institute. His belief that everyone is creative and that…

In 1979 Nicaragua, amidst political chaos, three American journalists pursue their stories while grappling with complicated relationships. As they investigate the country's turmoil, friendship, romance, and rivalry intertwine, creating a tense environment that jeopardizes their work and personal lives. The…

This Oscar-nominated animated short from 1983 follows a blind boy as he creates vivid mental pictures of his everyday world, based solely on sound and feeling.

Boys and Girls is a 1983 Canadian short film directed by Don McBrearty, adapted from Alice Munro's 1968 short story of the same name. The film tells the story of a young girl's coming-of-age on a farm and her realization…

David Lightman is a gifted high school student with a knack for hacking. He enjoys trying to access unreleased video games by hacking into computer systems. One day, while exploring this hobby, he accidentally discovers the Defense Department's top-secret war…

Disney reimagines Charles Dickens' classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a cold and selfish man who doesn't understand the spirit of Christmas. His life changes when he meets three mysterious spirits who show him how his choices affect those around him.…

Goodie-Two-Shoes is a 1984 British short film by Ian Emes. A teacher encourages a group of unlikely students to join a dance class, including a well-behaved boy and his tormentor. The class leads to awkward moments, budding friendships, rivalry, and…

First Contact, a 1983 documentary by Bob Connolly and Robin Anderson, details the 1930 discovery of a thriving, previously unknown population in the highlands of New Guinea. The film, adapted from their book of the same name, features accounts from…

Overnight Sensation, a 1984 short film by Jon Bloom, is inspired by W. Somerset Maugham's story "The Colonel's Lady." When housewife Eve Peregrine unexpectedly becomes a literary sensation with her first novel, her husband George, a successful fashion photographer, struggles…

Six soldiers from different countries share their stories of combat, the pressures of their jobs, and how new technology is changing their work.

This Oscar-winning documentary short film follows graduating students at Canada's National Ballet School as they learn flamenco from Susana and Antonio Robledo. The renowned dancers travel to the school each winter to teach classes held after the students' regular academic…

A series of interviews with children explores how they understand the danger of nuclear weapons. The children share their perspectives and feelings about this global threat.

Luke Skywalker undertakes a dangerous rescue mission to save Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt. While they rush to save him, a dangerous plan emerges: the Empire, controlled by the Emperor, is building a second Death Star to destroy the…

Sewing Woman tells the story of a woman's resilient journey to survive, moving from a traditional arranged marriage in China to finding a life of modest comfort in modern-day America.

Spaces: The Architecture of Paul Rudolph is a 1983 American documentary film narrated by Cliff Robertson and produced by Bob Eisenhardt. It explores the work of architect Paul Rudolph, recreating the feeling of his presence and the atmosphere of his…

In 1945, five American servicemen and a former prisoner of war recount their experiences during the liberation of Nazi concentration camps.

The story unfolds backward, beginning with the end of a clandestine affair between a literary agent and his best friend's wife. We witness their relationship unravel as events rewind, revealing the moments leading up to their secret.

This documentary explores the political work of the American Communist Party from the 1920s to the 1950s.

In post-war France, two women from different worlds find comfort in each other after the war's devastation. In 1942, a Jewish woman marries for practical reasons to avoid being sent to Nazi Germany. At the same time, a wealthy art…

Many American children and teenagers, regardless of their background, struggle with mental disorders like schizophrenia, autism, and emotional problems. This often leads to social isolation and treatment in mental health facilities. However, these young people face ongoing challenges within inadequate…

During World War II in Hungary, a childless Jewish couple adopts a Hungarian boy. They raise him according to their own values and traditions, becoming his family.