The 88th Academy Awards took place on Sunday, February 28 2016. Although many people tuned in to watch the show there was still a controversy over the lack of nominations of people of color. Whether it be actors, actresses or directors, people were disappointed and angered that there were almost no people of color recognized for their dedication and execution of their roles and jobs this past year. The host of the show, Chris Rock, even addressed the subject in his opening speech and in comments throughout the show. Even though the Oscars did not recognize these actors for their performances and work, they still deserve to be applauded. Here is a list of four people who should have gotten Oscar nominations.

1.  Idris Elba: Beasts of No Nation

This movie follows the story of a young boy named Agu, who is forced to join a group of soldiers in a West African country. While Agu fears his commander and many of the men around him, his innocence and childhood have been shattered and taken from him by the war and violence that was happening within his country. Elba and Beasts of No Nation were favored by many to receive nominations, the movie had already received SAG, BAFTA, and Golden Globe nominations. Many viewers of the movie and critics say that Elba’s performance was incredible and completely deserved to receive a nomination for an Oscar. After watching the movie, I too feel that Elba and the movie as a whole should have had a nomination at the very least.

2. Michael B. Jordan: Creed

This movie tells the story of Adonis Johnson, who never knew his late father Apollo Creed. He follows in his father’s footsteps by pursuing the sport of boxing. Apollo Creed’s former rival and friend, Rocky Balboa, serves as Adonis’ trainer and mentor. Jordan has given us entertaining performances in his roles over the years, and his performance in Creed grabbed the attention of many people. Jordan completely deserved to be recognized at the Oscars this year.

3.  Jason Mitchell: Straight Outta Compton

The movie Straight Outta Compton was released August 2015; it received positive reviews from critics and had impressive box office sales opening week.  The film tells the story of the rise and fall of the Compton, California rap group N.W.A.. Jason Mitchell portrays the late Eazy-E in the film. Mitchell is new to the acting world and has not be in many critically acclaimed movies, but his performance in S.O.C grabbed people’s attention and took his career in a new direction. A few members of N.W.A were a part of the making of the movie, and guided the actors playing them. Mitchell did not have this privilege, so his co stars, the others on set, and himself had to create a character that Eazy-E would be proud of and dedicated fans of the group would appreciate.

4. O’Shea Jackson Jr.: Straight Outta Compton

O’Shea Jackson Jr portrayed Ice Cube in the movie. When an actor is playing someone who is an active role in the process of the movie and someone who is considered a founder in the music world, the role is difficult enough and is a great accomplishment. But to add on more pressure, Jackson Jr. is Ice Cube’s son. Having to prove that you earned a role and were not just handed the opportunity based on family connections is something that should be important and recognized, and Jackson Jr. deserved to be nominated.