Denis Villeneuve directs the Oscar-nominated science-fiction thriller, “Arrival,” a film that asks the deep and puzzling questions humanity fears to confront. Released in early November by Paramount Pictures, the film grossed an impressive $24 million, skyrocketing past its fellow Best Picture nominees, “Moonlight” and “Hacksaw Ridge,” which were released around the same time. The film has a total estimated worldwide gross of $194 million.

“Arrival” has received eight Oscar nominations, including Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Sound and Best Sound Editing.

Amy Adams plays Louise Banks, a linguistics professor brought in to help when 12 unidentified flying objects enter Earth’s orbit. Adams gives a strong, confident performance alongside Jeremy Renner, who plays a military scientist named Ian Donnelly. Adams displays a new type of heroine: one who is soft, calculated, and soulful.

Despite her unique and wonderful performance, Adams was not nominated for Best Actress. This came as a shock to both fans and critics, considering Adams had a wonderful year not only with the release of “Arrival,” but also her work in “Nocturnal Animals” alongside Jake Gyllenhaal. Adams was originally listed as a nominee but was removed from the list. The Academy later released a statement saying her name was a mistake.

Villeneuve surrounds himself with a talented cast and crew that give the story such beauty and resonance. Cinematographer Bradford Young returns after his ingenious work on “Selma” to create breathtaking visuals. Most science-fiction is choppy, cutting vigorously from scene to scene, while Young takes a more fluid and naturalistic approach to this film.

“Arrival” is about confronting your fears rather than fighting them. It’s more than just a science-fiction thriller but a deep, intimate commentary on loss, hope and connection. Through her grounded and genuine performance, Adams reminds audiences we are always stronger together. We preserve our humanity by stepping outside of ourselves to remember what’s been lost in translation.