Scenes from Best Supporting Actress Nominees at the 96th Annual Academy Awards
The 96th Annual Academy Awards are just around the corner, and one of the most exciting categories to watch is Best Supporting Actress. This year, the nominees include Emily Blunt for her role in “Oppenheimer,” Danielle Brooks for “The Color Purple,” America Ferrera for “Barbie,” Jodie Foster for “Nyad,” and Da’Vine Joy Randolph for “The Holdovers.” Let’s take a closer look at these talented actresses and their performances.
Emily Blunt shines in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” a film centered on the enigmatic physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, played by best actor nominee Cillian Murphy. Blunt portrays Kitty, a woman who becomes entangled in Oppenheimer’s personal life. In a scene from the film, Oppenheimer meets Kitty at a party, and their connection is immediate, despite Kitty being married. Blunt’s performance earned her her first Oscar nomination.
In an interview with the British Film Institute, Blunt praised Nolan’s screenplay and the source material for the film, Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin’s “American Prometheus.” She delved into the complexities of her character, describing Kitty as a fiercely bright woman who deteriorates throughout the course of the film. Blunt drew inspiration from screen gem actresses from the past, particularly one who went through a big drinking period and underwent a transformation in voice and demeanor.
Danielle Brooks delivers a powerful performance in “The Color Purple,” a musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s classic novel. Brooks plays Sofia, a woman who stands up against oppressive male figures in the 1930s South. In a scene from the film, Sofia introduces herself to Harpo’s father, Mister, leaving a lasting impression. Brooks had seen the musical when she was 15 and credits it with changing her life. She describes singing “Hell No” as an anthem against fears and impostor syndrome.
Brooks feels a responsibility to be a voice for all the Sofias in the world. She sees herself as a representative for those who need someone to speak up for them, just as Oprah Winfrey did for her. Winfrey, one of the producers of the film, personally called Brooks to inform her that she had won the role. This nomination marks a significant milestone in Brooks’ career.
America Ferrera takes on the role of Gloria in Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” a film that celebrates the iconic doll while critiquing societal pressures on women. Ferrera’s character is a mother, wife, and employee at Mattel, who sketches unconventional Barbie designs. In a scene from the film, Gloria describes the complexities and contradictions that women face in a world that values image over substance.
Ferrera found Gloria’s monologue to be powerful and meaningful. She approached each take with a different emotional tone, allowing the words to guide her performance. Despite not being a “Barbie girl” herself, Ferrera recognizes the importance of expanding and shifting the narrative to include more diverse perspectives.
Jodie Foster stars as Bonnie Stoll in “Nyad,” a film about endurance swimmer Diana Nyad’s quest to swim from Cuba to Florida. Foster’s character is a friend and coach to Nyad, and their friendship is central to the film. In a scene from the movie, Bonnie returns after quitting due to safety concerns, and the two reconcile.
Foster knew both Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll personally and found their partnership and friendship beautiful. She describes them as eccentric individuals who became each other’s family. Foster’s performance in “Nyad” showcases her talent and depth as an actress.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph portrays Mary Lamb in Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers,” set in 1970. Mary is the cafeteria manager at Barton Academy, a New England prep school, and her character brings a sense of melancholy to the film. In a scene from the movie, Mary explains why she chooses to stay at Barton Academy during the holiday break, despite the school being shut down.
Randolph’s performance in “The Holdovers” is both powerful and relatable. She drew inspiration from her own experiences with grief and observed how Black women often hide their struggles behind a facade of strength. Randolph wanted her character to feel like someone’s grandmother, aunt, or best friend, someone relatable and maternal.
As we eagerly await the 96th Annual Academy Awards, it’s clear that the Best Supporting Actress category is filled with incredible talent. These actresses have brought their characters to life with nuance, emotion, and authenticity. Whether it’s Emily Blunt’s portrayal of Kitty in “Oppenheimer,” Danielle Brooks’ powerful performance as Sofia in “The Color Purple,” America Ferrera’s thought-provoking role in “Barbie,” Jodie Foster’s depiction of Bonnie Stoll in “Nyad,” or Da’Vine Joy Randolph