“12 Years a Slave,” “Nebraska” and “Belle” are the top feature finalists for the 40th annual Humanitas Prize awards, which recognize writers.

“Whiplash” (pictured) is among the indie films competing in the Sundance feature film category, along with “Camp X-Ray,” “Hellion” and “Love is Strange.”

Among TV dramas, the shows in the mix this year are “Homeland,” “The Killing,” “Parenthood” and “True Detective.” TV comedies are “How I Met Your Mother,” “The Middle” and “Modern Family.”

The Humanitas org will hand out $90,000 in prize money to recognize writers whose work shed light on social issues and the depth of human relations.