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Published Mar 9, 2023

Oscar Predictions: Who Will and Should Win at the Academy Awards

Join Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins as they dive into the spectacle of the upcoming Academy Awards, offering keen predictions on who will sweep the Oscars, the cultural narratives behind nominated films, and the profound impact of cinematic techniques on storytelling.
Episode Highlights
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Episode Highlights

  • Sound & Score

    The discussion on sound and score highlights the critical role these elements play in storytelling. and explore the nominees for Best Original Score, including Volker Bertelman for "All Quiet on the Western Front" and Justin Hurwitz for "Babylon" 1. Amanda believes that "Babylon's" score should win due to its intricate connection with past works like "La La Land" 1. Sean notes the innovative use of anachronistic synth styles in "All Quiet on the Western Front," which could sway voters 2.

    The ongoing collaboration between Hurwitz and Chazelle is very interesting. And in fact, I think in many ways resembles what Spielberg and John Williams have been doing for a very long time.

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    In the sound category, "Top Gun: Maverick" is favored due to its immersive audio experience, although Amanda argues that "Tar" deserved a nomination 3.

       

    Animation

    Animation techniques this Oscar season showcase a diverse range of styles, from Pixar's digital animation in "Turning Red" to the classic stop-motion of "Pinocchio" 4. appreciates the variety, noting that it moves beyond traditional animated films 4. predicts "Pinocchio" will win Best Animated Feature, highlighting Guillermo del Toro's influence and the film's thematic depth 5.

    It's a major evolution. If you look at the animation styles in all five films, they're all different.

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    Amanda also praises "Marcel the Shell with Shoes On" for its charm and emotional impact, despite "Pinocchio" being the frontrunner 6.

       

    Editing & VFX

    Film editing and visual effects are pivotal in shaping the viewer's experience. and discuss the nominees for Best Film Editing, with Sean favoring Eddie Hamilton for "Top Gun: Maverick" due to his long-standing collaboration with Tom Cruise 7. However, they acknowledge that this category often predicts the Best Picture winner, which may not favor "Top Gun: Maverick" 7.

    This category is usually very indicative of where the best picture race is going.

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    In visual effects, "The Way of Water" is expected to win, praised for its groundbreaking technology and seamless integration 8. Amanda and Sean agree on its deserved recognition, emphasizing the film's innovative achievements 8.

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