On the flip-side, of course, some films that were thought to be out of contention have racked up multiple awards. So what were the biggest surprises and snubs from this year’s competition? Let’s have a closer look.
SNUB: Wonder Woman
Despite the glowing reviews and huge amounts of anticipation, Patty Jenkins’ movie failed to get nominated for a single category. With Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 picking up a visual effects nomination and Logan a best-adapted screenplay nom, the voters certainly weren’t against superhero movies. A shame, then, the Gal Gadot-fronted blockbuster couldn’t muster a single nom.
SURPRISE: Christopher Plummer
A couple of months ago, Plummer had no idea he would be portraying J. Paul Getty in Ridley Scott’s All the Money in the World. Following accusations against Kevin Spacey, the actor was brought on board last minute, reshooting Spacey’s scenes. Now, Plummer can happily claim to be the oldest person ever nominated for an Oscar, aged 88. A story worthy of its own biopic.
SNUB: Armie Hammer/Michael Stuhlbarg
While Timothée Chalamet may have picked up a nomination for best leading actor, Armie Hammer and Michael Stuhlbarg — who co-starred in Call Me By Your Name — were nowhere in sight. Both actors were hugely impressive, particularly Stuhlbarg’s caring father, but neither managed to outperform Three Billboards’ Sam Rockwell and Woody Harrelson who were both honoured by the academy.
SURPRISE: Denzel Washington
Before the nominations, no-one was really expecting Denzel to pick up a nomination, Roman J. Israel, Esq receiving mixed reviews and failing to impress at the box office. However, you should never underestimate Denzel Washington, who has now been nominated six times for leading actor and twice for supporting actor.
SNUB: James Franco
Conversely, Golden Globe winner James Franco was largely expected to pick up a nomination for best actor, something that has failed to materialise. Some have pointed to various sexual misconduct accusations as a possible reason, although much of the voting was done before they came to light. Unfortunately, the actor’s portrayal of Tommy Wiseau just didn’t fly with voters.
SURPRISE: Phantom Thread
Paul Thomas Anderson’s wonderful movie failed to pick up much traction before the Oscars, Daniel Day-Lewis and Johnny Greenwood picking up the majority of nominations for leading actor and score, respectively. However, the Oscars treated the bleak romance particularly well, Phantom Thread achieving a best picture nomination, while Anderson managed best director and Lesley Manville a best supporting actress nomination. A superb turn for a delicious movie.
SNUB: The Florida Project
Willem Defoe may have been nominated for best supporting actor, but the brilliant Florida Project failed to pick up any other nominations. Considering how much director Sean Baker achieved on a slim budget of $2 million, many expected perhaps a directing nomination, or even Bria Vinaite to succeed as a supporting actress. Unfortunately, neither came to fruition.
Notable SNUBS: Lego Batman Movie beaten for best animation by Boss Baby, Hong Chau for Downsizing, Spielberg no-show for best director.
Notable SURPRISES: Logan managed a best adapted screenplay, The Last Jedi scooped as many nominations as Call Me By Your Name.
The original article was published in the Independent.
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