The Golden Globe awards are often considered to be a ratings-grab. Every year, the HFPA nominates a variety of big names – some of which are deserving of nominations, some of which are not. Last year’s nomination of Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie for the critically panned The Tourist is one example; this year’s nomination (and win) for Madonna is another. On the other hand, the Globes spark a debate amongst critics, Academy members, and pop-culture enthusiasts considering who is deserving and who is not, and by the time the winners are announced, a pretty clear picture appears of who will be nominated at the Academy Awards.
Every year, though, there are a few surprises. Last year I didn’t care too much about these dark horses, since I was too focused on my devout appreciation for The Social Network to care much about the other nominees. This year, however, I found myself more confused than affirmed when I read through the nomination list.
Actor In A Leading Role: If you had asked me on Monday evening who would be nominated, I would have said the following: Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Gary Oldman, Jean Dujardin, and Michael Fassbender. If I had guessed which one might be omitted, I would have said Gary Oldman – not because he’s undeserving, but because he wasn’t considered for the Golden Globes. I never would have guessed that Michael Fassbender would be cut for Demian Bichir of A Better Life. First of all, A Better Life wasn’t on anyone’s radar for awards season – meaning that Bichir must have done an impressive, but silent, Oscar campaign behind the scenes. Second of all, Michael Fassbender has been everywhere this year, with critically acclaimed performances left, right, and centre. I love Michael Fassbender, so, needless to say – I’m disappointed.
Actress In A Leading Role: The Academy seems to make it a habit these days to nominate one young person for either Best Actor or Best Actress. This year the fight was between Shailene Woodley and Rooney Mara – though, considering the Golden Globes, Woodley seemed to have the edge. I don’t think Mara is undeserving of a nomination based on her performance. I can’t say I’ve been impressed with her attitude, though. The real fight for this award comes down to Michelle Williams and Meryl Streep.
Directing: I was hoping that David Fincher might get a nomination after he (unfairly) lost to Tom Hooper last year, but, unfortunately not.
Best Picture: A lot of changes have happened at the Academy recently in terms of Best Picture nominations. A few years ago they jumped from 5 nominations to 10 nominations; this year they changed it to “up to 10”, without nominating anything that received less than five percent. That being said, the Academy seems to be a little confused this year, because apparently more than five percent of the Academy voted for Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. The movie was poorly received by critics, with my favourite review stating:
“Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” is the kind of movie you want to punch in the nose.
So, needless to say, it’ll be another interesting year at the Academy Awards this year. I’m ready to see some good campaigning by the nominees – including a possible engagement between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.