Movie: Nebraska

A story about an old man, struggling alcoholic, pursuing a purpose in life (in which it is clear he will fail); shot entirely in black and white sounds like a depressing film. Instead, Woody's quest to travel 1000 miles to Lincoln, Nebraska to collect his million dollars; is a witty film that uncovers layers of small town America impacted by an economic downturn. In his travels, Woody and his reluctant son stop over in Woody's hometown, and the vultures come out to first prey on Woody's millions and then to prey on his "stupidity". 

There are absolutely amazing performances by the lead characters. It is  a poignant story, and the amazingly witty conversations make this a great movie; worthy of the various nominations.