2016 Oscar Nominees Before They Were Stars

02/25/2016 12:02 pm EST

Investing in Oscar contenders and their stories is one of the best parts during awards show season. Of course, that's in addition to getting glam for watch parties and having a good excuse to bring out the bubbly.

Most of us have had at least one instance of getting emotional during the Academy Awards. We're impacted by long overdue historical moments -- think Halle Berry becoming the first black woman to win Best Actress in 2002. And there's always speeches that catch us off guard in the best way, like Robin Williams' genuine and heartwarming Best Supporting Actor acceptance in 2008.

Find a new favorite to cheer on this weekend by getting to know the Oscar nominees of 2016. If you weren't already hoping for a Leonardo DiCaprio win, take a look at wide-eyed, younger Leo and you'll be in his corner in no time!

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