The Oscars are not the definitive measure of cinematic excellence. At times, the films that take home the coveted golden statuettes represent the pinnacle of quality for that year, while other times, they merely echo fleeting trends or societal moods, often appearing outdated as time progresses. There are also moments when the winners seem utterly baffling.

Focusing instead on those occasions when the Academy honored deserving films or ones that capture the essence of their respective periods, here’s a collection of 25 exceptional Oscar-winning films currently streaming on Netflix. It’s worth noting that several acclaimed contenders like The Irishman and Maestro earned numerous nominations but left empty-handed.

Barbie (2023)

A vibrant wave of optimism swept through audiences during the summer release of Barbie. Reflecting on those lighter days feels distant in this moment, but revisiting the film that reintroduced feminist themes to a broad audience is a delightful escape. Featuring standout performances—Margot Robbie’s iconic portrayal of Barbie and Ryan Gosling’s endearing take on Ken—the film carries a message of female empowerment that may have seemed clichéd at first glance, until it became clear that its themes resonate deeply with many.

Awarded: Best Original Song

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)

While critics had mixed feelings about Wes Anderson’s other 2023 project, Asteroid City, his short film The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar thrived, ushering in his inaugural Academy Award win. Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Henry Sugar, a wealthy man whose gambling addiction leads him to a remarkable revelation about seeing the world through others’ eyes. This charming tale, briskly told in just 40 minutes, showcases Anderson’s unique visual flair, buoyed by talents like Ralph Fiennes and Dev Patel.

Awarded: Best Live Action Short Film

Roma (2018)

In a striking departure from the dystopian narratives of films like Children of Men and Gravity, director Alfonso Cuarón returned to his roots with Roma, a semi-autobiographical drama set against the backdrop of 1970s Mexico City, amid the tumult of the Dirty War. Yalitza Aparicio delivers a heartfelt performance as Cleo, a live-in maid facing her own crises alongside an unraveling household dynamic. Cuarón’s evocative storytelling masterfully captures a specific time and place, earning the film nominations for Best Picture and several Oscar wins.

Awards: Best Director (Alfonso Cuarón), Best Foreign Language Film (Mexico), Best Cinematography (Alfonso Cuarón)

Marriage Story (2020)

Noah Baumbach’s powerful exploration of a disintegrating marriage, Marriage Story, draws comparisons to Ingmar Bergman’s Scenes from a Marriage. Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver turn in deeply affecting performances as a couple navigating their tumultuous breakup, but it’s Laura Dern’s role as Nicole’s attorney, Nora Fanshaw, that truly stands out, earning her a long-deserved Oscar. Despite the film’s weighty themes, it offers moments of raw honesty that resonate deeply with viewers.

Awarded: Best Supporting Actress (Laura Dern)

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022)

Guillermo del Toro continues to garner accolades, this time for his beautifully crafted adaptation of Pinocchio, set against the backdrop of Italy during the rise of Fascism. His previous successes like Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water proved that he has a distinctive vision, and this project showcases his passion for crafting stories that embrace their inherent darkness without being overly sentimental. Featuring a talented voice cast, including Ewan McGregor and Tilda Swinton, its unique animation style enhances the profound themes within.

Awarded: Best Animated Feature Film

All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)

The latest adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque’s 1929 anti-war novel showcases the horrors of World War I. While it did not take home the top honors like the 1930 version, All Quiet on the Western Front made notable waves at the 2023 Oscars, earning multiple awards for its poignant depiction of the futility of war amidst the trenches. Despite lacking the dramatic impact of its predecessor, this gripping tale offers a stark portrayal of the toll that war takes on humanity.

Awards: Best International Feature (Germany), Best Original Score, Best Production Design, Best Cinematography

My Octopus Teacher (2020)

In this heartwarming documentary, filmmaker Craig Foster chronicles his transformative journey as he forms a bond with a wild octopus in a South African kelp forest. Through this unique connection, Foster reflects on life’s lessons and the importance of nurturing his own relationship with his son. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary connections between humans and nature.

Awarded: Best Documentary Feature

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)

Set in the bustling Chicago of 1927, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom follows the legendary blues singer (played by Viola Davis) during a recording session fraught with tensions. Rainey’s awareness of her precarious position amidst white promoters adds depth to the narrative, leading to explosive conflict with Chadwick Boseman’s dynamic character, Levee Green. Davis’s performance is a powerful tribute to the blues icon, while Boseman’s posthumous nomination reflects his immense talent, despite the Academy’s complicated history with Black actors.

Awards: Best Costume Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Despite the lackluster reception of the prequel Furiosa, Mad Max: Fury Road remains a dazzling showcase of cinematic action. George Miller’s exhilarating film should have taken the Best Picture title instead of The Revenant, as its frenetic pace and vibrant characters—including Max, Immortan Joe, and the unforgettable Doof Warrior—make for an unforgettable watch. It’s always a thrill to experience the sheer madness of the “Road War.”

Awards: Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Production Design, Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing

RRR (2022)

The omission of RRR from several Oscar nominations is surprising, given its ambitious scope and compelling narrative. Winning India its first Oscar for Original Song, the film features impressive action choreography and standout musical numbers, all while delivering a powerful anti-colonial message. Its energetic storytelling and rich cultural context highlight the film as a remarkable piece of cinema worthy of international recognition.

Awarded: Best Original Song (“Naatu Naatu”)

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Julia Roberts made a triumphant return to the Oscars with her magnetic portrayal of Erin Brockovich, a determined paralegal who challenges a massive corporation over environmental issues. This narrative, rich with courage and determination, showcases the underdog spirit in the face of adversity. The direction by Steven Soderbergh adds an energetic touch to the weave of fact and drama, making it a timeless watch.

Awarded: Best Actress (Julia Roberts)

The Power of the Dog (2021)

Jane Campion’s The Power of the Dog delved into complex themes of masculinity and emotional turmoil, similar to Brokeback Mountain. Benedict Cumberbatch gives a layered performance as a rugged rancher whose life takes a tumultuous turn with the arrival of new family members at their Montana ranch. Campion’s unique pacing and stunning visuals elevate the narrative, resulting in a stunning exploration of human connection and vulnerability.

Awarded: Best Director (Jane Campion)

Period. End of Sentence. (2018)

This impactful short film, running around 25 minutes, follows a group of women in Kathikera, India, tackling the stigma surrounding menstruation. They embark on the creation of a factory to produce sanitary pads, embarking on a powerful yet understated revolution in women’s health and independence.

Awarded: Best Documentary Short Subject

The Last Days (1998)

This poignant documentary focuses on survivors of the Holocaust as they recount their harrowing experiences during the final year of World War II in Hungary. Their stories of survival and resilience shed light on the horrors that unfolded during one of history’s darkest periods.

Awarded: Best Documentary Feature

The White Helmets (2016)

In a world crowded with war-themed documentaries, The White Helmets stands out, spotlighting the remarkable efforts of volunteers in Syria’s Civil Defense. This impactful short film reveals the reality of their daily lives, juxtaposed against the chaos of continual bombings, offering a human perspective amidst the ongoing tragedy of the Syrian conflict.

Awarded: Best Documentary (Short Subject)

American Factory (2019)

From the visionary team of Barack and Michelle Obama, American Factory takes a deep dive into the cultural clashes experienced in a repurposed GM plant in Ohio. Capturing the nuances of both American and Chinese workplace dynamics, this objective documentary provides an insightful glimpse into the complexities of global labor relations.

Awarded: Best Documentary Feature

Apollo 13 (1995)

Ron Howard’s Apollo 13 presents an intense dramatization of the failed lunar mission that captivates viewers with its mix of tension and emotion. A standout film of 1995, it surpassed the Best Picture winner Braveheart in both depth and quality, capturing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Awards: Best Film Editing, Best Sound

The Sting (1973)

A charming blend of comedy and drama, The Sting reunites Paul Newman and Robert Redford in this clever caper film that showcases their impeccable chemistry. The film draws viewers into an elaborate plot of revenge against a crime boss, filled with intricate details and period authenticity, succeeding as one of the best crafted crowd-pleasers in cinema history.

Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, Best Scoring

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

Dallas Buyers Club tells a poignant and complex story against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis, showcasing Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto in powerful performances. Although casting decisions have faced criticism for lack of authenticity, the film brings forth discussions about survival, community, and the quest for justice during a difficult time.

Awards: Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor

Godzilla Minus One (2023)

The latest entry in the iconic Japanese kaiju series, Godzilla Minus One, surprises with its blend of thrilling action and heartfelt storytelling. Set against the scars of war, this film enriches the franchise with emotional depth while delivering the entertainment fans have come to love, characterizing Godzilla as a monstrous yet relatable figure.

Awarded: Best Visual Effects

Parasite (2019)

Parasite, the first non-English language film to win the Best Picture Oscar, marks a monumental achievement in cinema. Bong Joon-ho’s darkly humorous take on class struggles and social inequality resonates powerfully, solidifying its place in film history and serving as a reminder of the potential for impactful storytelling.

Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best International Film

Whiplash (2014)

Featuring Miles Teller as aspiring jazz drummer Andrew Neiman, Whiplash explores the intense struggle for artistic excellence under the tyrannical baton of Terence Fletcher (brilliantly portrayed by J.K. Simmons). The film captures the raw passion and sacrifice involved in the pursuit of greatness, resonating with both musicians and audiences.

Awards: Best Supporting Actor, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing

Schindler’s List (1993)

Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List serves as a haunting reminder of humanity’s capacity for both cruelty and compassion. Documenting the story of Oskar Schindler (Liam Neeson) during the Holocaust, this film not only enlightens viewers about an important historical event but also poses essential questions about morality and the responsibility of individuals in the face of evil.

Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Film Editing, Best Original Score

Mank (2020)

Mank, directed by David Fincher, sheds light on screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz’s struggle to bring Citizen Kane to life. The film showcases the intricacies of the Hollywood system during a transformative period for cinema, ultimately earning more Oscar nominations than the classic it portrays. Its blend of drama and historical intrigue makes for a compelling narrative.

Awards: Best Cinematography, Best Production Design

If Anything Happens I Love You (2020)

This short poignant animation tackles grief and loss through the eyes of two parents coping with the tragic loss of their child. Despite its brief runtime of under 15 minutes, the film powerfully conveys deep emotional truths, proving that impactful storytelling can transcend length.

Awarded: Best Animated Short Film