As a cinephile who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of films, I firmly believe that “Challengers” deserves a Best Picture nomination at this year’s Academy Awards. This movie isn’t just a labor of love for me; it’s a testament to the power and relevance of mid-budget dramas for adults.

Could “The Challengers” secure a Best Picture nomination at this year’s Oscars? This might seem insignificant to those who aren’t avid fans of the film, but as someone who has ranked it as my top movie of the year, I am genuinely curious about its prospects. However, my interest isn’t solely driven by personal affection for Luca Guadagnino’s intricate and immersive tennis-centered love story. Rather, the nature of the film raises broader questions about the Academy Awards’ recognition of unconventional yet impactful cinematic works.

Do you recall the engaging, modestly budgeted dramas designed for mature viewers? (You might remember them as…movies?) These films have seemingly diminished in popularity. However, they used to be the mainstay of cinema, the highlight of the Oscars. Movies. For grown-ups and perhaps even teenagers.. Films that audiences flocked to see in large numbers. Are we prepared to accept that this is now a relic of bygone award seasons?

There are numerous compelling arguments as to why “Challengers” merits a Best Picture nomination (and other nominations too). The film is cleverly crafted, intricately plotted, masterfully directed, visually stunning, and boasts some of the most outstanding performances of the year. It’s a movie that offers romance, mystery, thrill, and emotion. Moreover, it struck a chord with audiences, grossing $50 million at the domestic box office – an impressive figure for a mid-budget adult drama today. If the Oscars fail to accommodate this film, one might wonder: What films do they have room for?

As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently predict that come January 17th, when the Oscar nominations are unveiled, some individuals will have caught a glimpse of a few of these films – “The Brutalist,” “Anora,” “Emilia Pérez,” “Nickel Boys,” “A Real Pain,” “A Different Man,” and “September 5.” However, it’s safe to say that not everyone will have had the opportunity to watch them all.

I’m not denying the films themselves aren’t good; in fact, I adore “A Real Pain” and even enjoy several others. However, some of these films have received more acclaim than they truly deserve. The way these movies are often labeled as potential Oscar contenders from their very premiere at film festivals, only to be released months later with limited audiences (as “Emilia Pérez” is currently lost in the Netflix Bermuda Triangle, we can’t know exactly who’s watching it)…all of this gives these films an air of being hand-picked by a secret council. This trend adds up to a niche cinema bubble for this year. And what I mean is that this system, once established, seems almost intentional in making fewer and fewer people feel invested or excited about the Oscars.

Among the movies listed could potentially win the Best Picture category at the Independent Spirit Awards. However, “Challengers,” which was nominated for Golden Globes, is not included. This might be due to the fact that it carries a quality that seems to be increasingly unpopular with the modern, art-focused Oscar system.

“Challengers,” in a word, is fun. And that is now close to the Oscar kiss of death.

It seems you’re pointing out that popular movies like “Barbie” and “Wicked” are nominated or expected to be, so what’s the issue? My response is that while these large-scale productions, typically one or two per year, may seem to buck the trend, they actually confirm it. Movies such as “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” with their grand scale, attract attention and are often seen as too significant to be overlooked. Similarly, “Wicked” has a similar aura of anticipation. As for “Dune: Part Two,” it’s likely to fill the “Lord of the Rings” category in terms of epic fantasy. I agree with your points; they all sound reasonable and well-made.

However, what about the former mainstream films that were once highly esteemed? It’s important to find a place at the Oscars for productions that are neither grand-scale fantasy spectacles nor overly serious art parables only appealing to a small audience of less than a million who would watch them in cinemas.

If the film “Challengers” doesn’t receive a Best Picture nomination at the Academy Awards, it could be significant for several reasons. Although the movie has been successful and well-liked by many, it serves an important purpose within the film industry: it embodies the kind of thoughtful crowd-pleasers with heart that Hollywood should produce more of to secure its future.

Through the passage of time, the Academy Awards have faced numerous criticisms, ranging from crudeness to outdatedness. It’s crucial that they avoid any suspicion of elitism or snobbery as well.

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2024-12-18 18:16