The 98th Academy Awards are just around the corner and the excitement is building up as we eagerly await to witness Hollywood’s biggest night. The big categories may seem like a lock, with buzz surrounding films like Joker, 1917 and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, but there are still plenty of coveted honors that will be up for grabs at the March 15 ceremony.

While the Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor/Actress categories often steal the spotlight, there are many other categories that deserve recognition for their contribution to the film industry. These categories may not receive as much attention, but they play a crucial role in making a movie a complete masterpiece.

One such category is the Best Cinematography award. This award is given to the Director of Photography (DP) who has created the most visually stunning and captivating shots in a film. It is the DP’s job to bring the director’s vision to life and create a visual language that enhances the story. This year, we have a diverse range of nominations in this category, from the sweeping landscapes of 1917 to the intimate shots of The Irishman. It will be interesting to see who takes home the award for their exceptional work behind the camera.

Another category that often goes unnoticed but is of utmost importance is the Best Sound Editing and Mixing award. This award recognizes the technical aspects of a film, including sound effects, dialogue, and music. It is the sound team’s responsibility to create an immersive experience for the audience, and this year’s nominees have done just that. From the bombastic sounds of Ad Astra to the chaotic war scenes in Ford v Ferrari, these films have pushed the boundaries of sound in cinema.

The Best Original Score category is also one to watch out for. Music plays a crucial role in setting the mood and tone of a film, and this award recognizes the composer who has created the most memorable and impactful score. This year’s nominations include legendary composers like Thomas Newman for 1917 and Hildur Guðnadóttir for Joker, who have both received critical acclaim for their work. It will be a tough competition, but whoever takes home the award will have truly elevated their film with their music.

Another category that often goes unnoticed is Best Costume Design. It is the costume designer’s job to not only make the characters look visually appealing but also to help tell their story through their wardrobe. This year’s nominees include the dazzling outfits of Little Women and the intricate period costumes of Jojo Rabbit. It will be interesting to see which film’s costumes will be the talk of the town after the ceremony.

The Best Animated Feature category is also one that deserves recognition. Animated films may be seen as just for kids, but they often tackle important themes and have some of the most heartwarming and emotional stories. This year, we have a mix of blockbuster hits like Toy Story 4 and more independent films like Missing Link. Regardless of who wins, all of the nominees have made a lasting impact on audiences of all ages.

Last but not least, the Best Documentary Feature category is one to watch out for. Documentaries have the power to educate, inspire and shed light on important issues. This year, we have a diverse range of documentaries, from the heart-wrenching American Factory to the heartwarming Honeyland. These films have not only entertained us but also made us think and reflect on the world we live in.

So while the big categories may seem like a lock for the 98th Academy Awards, let’s not forget the important contributions of these categories that often go unnoticed. These awards recognize the hard work and dedication of the talented individuals behind the scenes who bring a film to life. March 15 will be a night to celebrate the best of the best in the film industry, and we can’t wait to see who takes home these coveted honors.