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Published Oct 30, 2018

Introducing 'The Oscars Show' and the 2018 Oscar Narratives I The Oscars Show (Ep. 91)

Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins dive into the evolving cinematic landscape shaped by streaming services, assess the competitive dynamics of the 2018 Oscar race, and critically examine the Academy's recognition practices, including the debate surrounding a Popular Oscar category.
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Episode Highlights

  • Best Actor Race

    The 2018 Best Actor race is notably competitive, with a plethora of strong contenders vying for nominations. and highlight Bradley Cooper as a frontrunner for his role in "A Star is Born," noting his multifaceted performance and the film's critical acclaim 1. Cooper's portrayal of a complex character dealing with personal demons and his involvement in the film's direction and adaptation make him a strong candidate 1. Other notable mentions include Viggo Mortensen for "Green Book" and Lucas Hedges for his roles in "Boy Erased" and "Ben is Back," both of whom are seen as potential nominees 2.

       

    Popular Oscar

    The introduction of a Popular Oscar category sparked significant controversy, with many questioning its purpose and execution. criticizes the lack of clarity and details surrounding the award, which was perceived as a hasty attempt to boost viewership 3. adds that the announcement created anxiety about films like "Black Panther," which could be sidelined by such a category 3. Despite the backlash, the discussion highlights the tension between traditional Oscar films and popular blockbusters, emphasizing the need for a balance in recognizing diverse cinematic achievements 4.

       

    Campaign Strategies

    Oscar campaigns play a crucial role in determining award outcomes, with actors often needing to actively promote their work. notes that actors like Ryan Gosling, who are less inclined to campaign, may face challenges in securing nominations despite strong performances 5. The importance of visibility and engagement in the awards season is underscored by examples like Gary Oldman, who successfully campaigned for his Oscar win 5. Additionally, discusses the impact of film quality and controversies on nominations, as seen with Rami Malek's performance in "Bohemian Rhapsody," which was overshadowed by the film's directorial issues 6.

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