The term “Oscar bait” refers to movies that appear consciously crafted to appeal to award circuits, and it’s not a term of endearment. These movies typically tackle serious, topical subjects, feature esteemed actors, and employ a polished aesthetic designed to attract critical acclaim. However, these elements don’t always add up to a good film. The worst Oscar bait movies wind up being boring and overblown, frustrating the audience rather than charming them.