this was convoluted until it wasn't and it came together in an exciting and satisfying, if a bit sad, way. I really like the side characters. I think because they're actors I haven't seen in other things before, that helped them feel more real but they're also just compelling people in an interesting setting. there are times when this drags on and there's one scene that is so bizarre I was scared it would change the tone for the rest of the movie but that wasn't the case. overall, not my favorite of the best picture nominations but still very good.