Andrew Scott and Carrie Coon emerge as Oscar hopefuls for roles in "Elsinore" and "The Liberation"

Andrew Scott and Carrie Coon are drawing attention as possible first-time Oscar nominees after starring in two new biographical dramas. Scott plays actor Ian Charleson in Simon Stone’s "Elsinore," set during the 1989 AIDS crisis in London, while Coon portrays Holocaust survivor Rita Cooper in Guy Nattiv’s "The Liberation," which follows a woman confronting family trauma linked to a 1980s cult.

"Elsinore" follows Charleson, who tests positive for HIV just as he prepares to perform Hamlet at the National Theatre. The film depicts his struggle to balance treatment, friendships and his stage role, with support from director Johnny Flynn and doctor Olivia Colman. Scott’s performance has been described as emotionally varied, reflecting the character’s grief and resilience.

In "The Liberation," Coon’s character grapples with the legacy of her grandmother’s involvement in a women’s cult, creating tension within her family. The film also features her real-life husband Tracy Letts and actresses Bella Ramsey and Odessa Young as their daughters. Critics note that the Best Actress field is less crowded than Best Actor, potentially giving Coon a clearer path to a nomination.

Both films are slated for limited releases to qualify for awards season, with distributors planning broader exposure in early 2025. The Telluride Film Festival will feature related screenings, including Jesse Eisenberg’s "The Debut," which stars Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti.