Written by Abby Chadwick. Image by Abby Chadwick.
On January 24th, the Academy announced the nominations for the 95th annual Oscars. Most of these nominations were expected as far as I’m concerned (i.e. “Everything Everywhere All at Once” for Best Picture, Austin Butler for Best Actor, etc.) But let’s talk about those who were snubbed. From popular titles to some more niche picks, this is my view of what was snubbed by the Academy Awards this year.
After reading through the nominations, I was shocked to see that the film “Bones and All” wasn’t nominated at all. The film follows two young lovers on a cross-country journey while still falling more into the horror/drama category. I’m not one for gore, but despite my extreme discomfort during the entire viewing experience, I was still able to recognize that this film truly was a work of art. It was shockingly gruesome yet still beautiful. Its star, Taylor Russell, was truly snubbed of the Best Actress nomination. The Academy overlooking this film has been eating away at me (all puns intended).
“Aftersun” was one of my top movies this year, and will continue to be a favorite in the years to come. Paul Mescal was deservedly granted his first Oscar nomination for Best Actor, but I also think that Frankie Corio, who plays his daughter in the film, should also have been considered for Best Actress (especially since she was only twelve years old when the film was released). Her performance in the film masterfully represents childhood and innocence in a lighthearted way, and her leading role in “Aftersun” will not be her last.
The editing and cinematography of “Aftersun” were also overlooked by the Academy. Very few times have I watched a film shot and edited as beautifully and meticulously as “Aftersun,” which ensured the overarching theme of melancholy nostalgia was present in every scene of this movie.
One of my more niche opinions focuses on a smaller film, “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” by AppleTV. This film follows the post-college life of Andrew as he navigates jobs and his blossoming relationship with a woman and her autistic daughter. This has recently become my favorite movie and I believe everyone needs to see it. Cooper Raiff, who wrote, directed and starred in the film, tackles the idea of “coming-of-age” without cliches. I would argue that he deserves the Best Actor or Best Director award.
Despite the fact that the Oscars doesn’t have a category highlighting movie soundtracks, “Cha Cha Real Smooth” has one of the best accompanying soundtracks I’ve ever heard. The Academy should consider making a category to highlight incredible soundtracks.
The Academy snubs movies every year, but this year felt complicated. Although I’m thrilled about some of the nominations, there are other actors and films that I think deserve more recognition.
Abby Chadwick is District’s Chief Social Media Strategist and an interior design major at SCAD. She has been involved with District since her freshman year, with this year being her third as an editor. Apart from her role at District, Abby can be seen around SCAD walking to and from Clark Hall and enjoying the Savannah coffee scene. (Her go to is an espresso tonic, if you were wondering!)
