AFI Awards Announce Top Films and TV Series

The American Film Institute (AFI) Awards have unveiled their highly anticipated top 10 films and television series for the year, showcasing some surprising omissions and inclusions that have sparked discussions across Hollywood.

Leading the spotlight is Netflix’s Spanish-language musical, *Emilia Pérez*, which has secured its place among the prestigious list, becoming one of the very few non-English-language films to achieve such recognition since the awards began in 2001.

The film follows a historic precedent set by earlier entries like *Maria Full of Grace* and *The Diving Bell and the Butterfly*.

AFI's eligibility criteria allow for stories not presented in English if they possess significant American elements, which holds true for *Emilia Pérez*, thanks in part to American talents like Zoe Saldaña and Selena Gomez contributing to its production.

Notable Films and Surprising Omissions

Notable films alongside *Emilia Pérez* in the top 10 include *Wicked* and *The Brutalist*, with several other standout projects such as *Dune: Part 2* and *Nickel Boys*.

However, high-profile missing contenders have left fans astonished. *Gladiator II*, which fans eagerly awaited, and other blockbusters such as *Inside Out 2* and *Juror #2* notably did not make the cut, raising questions about the selection process.

Television Highlights and Surprises

In the television category, the AFI Awards committee also revealed an interesting lineup. The limited series *Shōgun*, which is primarily non-English, made its mark alongside critically acclaimed shows like *The Bear* and *Hacks*.

Conversely, shows such as Netflix’s *The Diplomat* and Hulu’s *Only Murders in the Building* failed to secure a coveted spot.

Special Recognition and Future of Storytelling

A special recognition will also be awarded to *Baby Reindeer*, a British production from Netflix, further emphasizing the recognition of international talent within the American film landscape.

Bob Gazzale, AFI's president and CEO, commented, “The AFI Awards is never about competition, but community," indicating the importance of collaboration within the industry.

The jury responsible for these selections included a mix of filmmakers, actors, and historians, ensuring that the awards reflect a diverse range of perspectives and expertise.

The AFI Awards luncheon is scheduled for January 10, 2025, at the luxurious Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, promising a celebration of artistry that transcends borders.

As the awards season heats up, the choices made by the AFI raise exciting questions about what the future holds for filmmakers breaking traditional boundaries. Are we witnessing a transformative moment in Hollywood that embraces a wider array of stories and voices? Time will tell!