The Oscars race is heating up, and all eyes are on the potential sweep of the awards by the film “Oppenheimer.” While it may not be able to achieve a clean sweep of all five top categories, including Best Picture, Actress, Actor, Director, and Screenplay, it is still a strong contender. Adapted from the biography “American Prometheus,” “Oppenheimer” has garnered critical acclaim and is expected to perform well in technical categories like Sound and Editing.
However, “Oppenheimer” is not invulnerable. The Best Adapted Screenplay category poses a challenge, with strong competition from films like “Barbie” and “American Fiction.” The screenplay awards have been known to be unpredictable, and a surprise winner is always possible. Despite its potential to win multiple awards, “Oppenheimer” may not take home every accolade it could conceivably win.
One category that seems locked in is Best Supporting Actor, with Robert Downey Jr. being the favorite for his role as Lewis Strauss in “Oppenheimer.” Downey has been campaigning heavily and has already won several awards leading up to the Oscars. His performance serves as a reminder of his talent and versatility as an actor, breaking free from his previous roles in Marvel movies.
Another film that has generated controversy is “Barbie.” While it received multiple nominations, including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actress for America Ferrera, it was snubbed in certain categories. The absence of a Best Director nomination for Greta Gerwig and a Best Actress nomination for Margot Robbie has sparked discussions about tough competition and potential biases. However, “Barbie” is still expected to walk away with at least one or two awards, particularly in categories like screenplay, production or costume design, and Best Original Song.
As for potential upsets, Lily Gladstone’s performance in “Killers of the Flower Moon” has been highly praised and considered a lock for Best Actress. However, Emma Stone’s work in “Poor Things” remains a possibility for an upset. Stone’s emotionally rich portrayal of an intellectually curious character could be a cause for celebration in any other year.
Bradley Cooper and his film “Maestro” have faced peculiar scrutiny throughout the awards season. Despite picking up major nominations, including Best Picture and Actor, Cooper has been the subject of ridicule. However, his talent as an actor and director should not be dismissed, and it seems unfair to punish his ambition to be considered a major filmmaker.
In the music category, Billie Eilish is expected to earn half an EGOT with her song “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie.” Co-written with her brother Finneas, the song has already won a Grammy and is likely to win the Oscar as well. Eilish would become the youngest two-time Oscar winner in history, setting her on the path to potentially achieving an Emmy and a Tony in the future.
As for the host of the Oscars, Jimmy Kimmel is expected to deliver a strong performance. With previous hosting experience and a knack for humor, Kimmel has emerged as one of the best hosts in recent years. His presence adds an edge to the night and ensures an entertaining show.
The political climate may also play a role in this year’s ceremony. While Kimmel has stated that politics should not be the focus of the night, winners may use their platform to address urgent issues. With ongoing conflicts, elections, and global crises, the Oscars provide an opportunity for artists to shed light on important matters beyond the world of movies and awards.
As the Oscars approach, the anticipation grows. Will “Oppenheimer” sweep the awards? What surprises and upsets await us? And why is everyone being so weird about Bradley Cooper? Only time will tell as Hollywood’s biggest night draws near.
