Best Original Screenplay: Jordan Peele

By Jordan Moreau

After being completely shut out during the Golden Globes, The Big Sick and Get Out managed to snag Oscar nominations for best original screenplay, which they each have a shot at winning. Both films are underdogs compared to Lady Bird, The Shape of Water and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, which each have as many or more nominations as the first two films combined.

Out of all the nominees, I think Jordan Peele is the most deserving and likely to win for Get Out. His script is one of the most original and culturally relevant works to hit the big screen in recent memory. Packed with symbolism, foreshadowing and references unique in the racially aware zeitgeist, Get Out seemed to be a shoe-in for the screenplay award at the Golden Globes. Until it wasn't. Peele's debut film was completely snubbed for best screenplay and seemingly misplaced in the comedy or musical category for best picture. Here's hoping that Get Out will rise from the Sunken Place and earn a well-deserved Oscar.

If for some reason Get Out fails to win, The Big Sick would be my next choice. The plot, based closely on Emily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani's love story, is equally heartfelt and hilarious. As Gordon and Nanjiani's only nomination, it would be huge for the married co-writers to win and it would be further proof, just like Get Out, that movies starring people of color are increasingly popular and profitable.