It finally happened! The Oscar nominations were announced this morning, and I’m truthfully still trying to process it all. But let’s break down some of the major categories, along with pleasant surprises and shocking upsets.
Best Actor:
I think at this point Adam Driver and Joaquin Phoenix felt like sure things, and they got their nods. What really ticked me off was the omission of Adam Sandler and Taron Egerton. Even if Rocketman wasn’t my favorite, I can still recognize talent! Jonathan Pryce and Antonio Banderas were definitely the pleasant surprises of this category.
Best Actress:
All of these seemed like no-brainers for me. I feel like Awkwafina deserved the nomination over Cynthia Erivo, but at least there’s some diversity in there?
Best Supporting Actor:
Once again, a no-brainer. I called predicted this category correctly, and I think Pitt should probably start preparing his speech.
Best Supporting Actress:
Despite the line-up here, I think it seems pretty obvious that Laura Dern is going to walk away with a win. Still, highly disappointing to see that J-Lo snub! On the other hand, I was excited to see Kathy Bates and Florence Pugh. Did Johansson’s part really deserve a nomination? I don’t think so.
Director:
I know the world is appalled at the lack of females in this category, but realistically, the nominees in here just delivered stronger products. None of these shocked me, but I’m hoping Tarantino doesn’t take home this prize.
International Film:
Based on reviews, I was surprised to see the omission of Portrait of a Lady on Fire. Truthfully, two of these films I’ve never heard of, but I think we all know Parasite is the obvious winner (although, I’d love to see Pain and Glory take it).
Adapted Screenplay:
I think this category was pretty obvious, but I really have no clue which film could walk away with the win. All are very strong contenders and would deserve it.
Original Screenplay:
Easiest surprise here was Knives Out, but I’m here for it! In my heart I want Marriage Story to win, but it seems like this is Taratino’s to lose…or maybe Parasite‘s?
Best Picture:
With nine nominees this year I am still a little bit disappointed, and at this point in time I have no clue who will win. Last year I for sure though Roma was the dead ringer, so now I feel hesitant to predict. Either way, I don’t feel like we should be seeing Ford v Ferrari on this list, and the absence of The Farewell and Uncut Gems is a true crime!
For a full list of nominees, click here.