15 Great Movies That Received Zero Oscar Nominations

15. V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta surprises with smart, honest dialogue and a strong political message hidden within its action-packed story. Hugo Weaving shines with a charismatic performance, and the film's dark yet vibrant visuals create unforgettable scenes, even without an Oscar. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

14. Paths of Glory

Paths of Glory is one of Kubrick’s best works, showing how military leaders can be more dangerous than the enemy on the battlefield. With solid performances from Menjou and Macready, this anti-war story is a powerful look at misguided pride, even without any Oscar nod. | © United Artists

13. City Lights

City Lights is a timeless classic where Chaplin's lovable Tramp brings humor and heartfelt emotion together in a simple yet powerful story. With its graceful blend of comedy and tragedy, this film charms audiences without ever having received an Oscar nomination. | © United Artists

12. Zodiac

Zodiac is a thought-provoking detective story that focuses on the investigation rather than sensationalizing the murders. Fincher's careful storytelling and respect for the victims create a fresh take on the serial killer genre, making it a captivating film that never received an Oscar nomination. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

11. Heat

Heat is a unique drama that explores the intense cat-and-mouse game between a careful career thief and a relentless detective. Michael Mann’s expert direction, paired with gripping performances from De Niro and Pacino, delivers a tense, captivating story. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

10. Once Upon a Time in America

Once Upon a Time in America is an epic movie that draws viewers into the mysterious world with Sergio Leone’s masterful direction and Ennio Morricone’s unforgettable score. With a script that took twelve years to perfect and powerful performances from its stellar cast, this film leaves a deep, timeless impression. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

9. The Dark Knight Rises

The Dark Knight Rises is a fantastic finale to the legendary Nolan’s Batman trilogy, filled with deep character development, thrilling fights, and unexpected plot twists. Although it faces some critics, its powerful emotions and unforgettable moments make it a standout film that never received an Oscar nomination. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

8. The Thing

The Thing is a unique horror movie that brings out the monster inside all of us, suggesting that the true danger may lie hidden in the people around us. The chilling atmosphere and universal threat make it a timeless and unsettling experience, despite never being honored by the Oscars. | © Universal Studios

7. Mean Streets

Mean Streets offers the unique look at New York's rough streets, driven by a young Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro whose performances light up every scene. With Scorsese's dynamic camera work bringing the lively antics to life and engaging dialogue driving the story, this film remains a must-watch. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

6. The Shining

The Shining is a masterful psychological horror that features a chilling culmination and an unforgettable performance by Jack Nicholson. Kubrick's deliberate pacing and mind-bending scenes create a haunting atmosphere that keeps the film both puzzling and captivating. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

5. Touch of Evil

Touch of Evil has amazing atmosphere and emotional touch, as well as an unforgettable opening shot and masterful long shots. This movie also features superb acting, which creates a film that leaves a lasting impression even though it never received an Oscar nomination. | © Universal Studios

4. Reservoir Dogs

Reservoir Dogs pulls off the neat trick of creating great amounts of suspense with a story that mostly takes place in a single room. Even if the pacing feels uneven at times, its daring storytelling and memorable moments have made it a cult classic that never got an Oscar nomination. | © Lionsgate Films

3. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is an entertaining film with an iconic score and memorable set pieces, even if its pacing and sound aren't perfect. Despite some flaws and characters that aren’t always likable, it remains a unique ride that surprises by missing any Oscar nominations. | © United Artists

2. The Big Lebowski

Apart from the great characters, The Big Lebowski is a one-of-a-kind movie with situational and intellectual humour. With brilliantly written and performed characters, this film will have you laughing one moment and moved the next, despite never getting an Oscar nomination. | © Universal Studios

1. Léon: The Professional

Despite not being recognized by the Oscars, Léon: The Professional is a fantastic movie with a tightly crafted story that grows naturally, offering a fresh, unsentimental take on childhood. This film builds a believable, thrilling climax while its sparing humor and Gary Oldman's amazing performance add a unique and surprising edge. | © Columbia Pictures