As Oscar night draws closer, predictions about which film will take home the title of Best Picture still have audiences mystified. “La La Land” danced its way into the hearts of audiences around the world, but that doesn’t guarantee a win. Critics are predicting darker, denser films, such as “Moonlight,” “Fences” and “Manchester by the Sea,” will give the light musical a run for its money.

While the category seems to have four front-runners, the other nominees add dramatic flavor and variety that cannot be ignored.

“Arrival”

The science-fiction thriller “Arrival” made the cut with Amy Adams delivering a powerful performance as Professor Louise Banks. The film received eight nominations, including Best Director and Best Cinematography. However, a science-fiction film has never won for the title of Best Picture, according to the ABC Television Network, so this really isn’t a top contender.

“Hell or High Water”

Director David Mackenzie managed to captivate audiences with “Hell or High Water.” The film has maintained momentum since its summer release on Aug. 12 where its weekend box office reached $621,329, according to IMDb. The moral obligations of the main character struck a chord with voters, but only four Westerns have ever won Best Picture.

“Lion”

If a film can make you feel, it doesn’t necessarily matter what you feel, but that you are feeling something, which “Lion” seems to achieve. The film carries a theme of wanting to understand where we come from, which resonates emotionally with nearly any audience member. Even with its strong emotional connection, “Lion” has been relatively absent from previous awards shows such as the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, making it a questionable choice for Best Picture at the Oscars as well.

“Hacksaw Ridge”

This film depicts the gruesome reality of war and combat, following the story of medic Desmond Doss, played by Andrew Garfield, as he refused to carry a weapon to battle. With an estimated budget of $40 million, the film only grossed a little over $15 million in the U.S., according to IMDb.

See how these smaller releases hold up against the stiff competition of the front-runners during the Oscars at 7 p.m, Feb 26. on ABC, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel.