Inspired by a fellow blogger who posted his as well as his
wife’s predictions, I could not resist making a few of my own. I am only going
to share my thoughts on categories where I’ve seen at least three of the five nominated
films (or two of the three nominated in one category). It was difficult to pick
in some cases, kind of like choosing apples or oranges. But here are my
preferences for the win.
Original Screenplay: Get Out
Jordan Peele wrote a tight, well-constructed screenplay
melding social commentary within a horror genre, with just the right amount of
humor thrown in now and then to lighten up the darkest moments.
Animated Feature: Loving Vincent
When an entire film is painted and then animated, well you
can’t get better than that. And the story of the last days of Vincent Van Gogh
was touching.
Production Design: Beauty and the Beast
For lavish and magical sets, this film wins hands down.
Makeup and Hairstyling: Darkest Hour
He looked like Churchill.
Film Editing: I, Tonya
That wasn’t really Margot Robbie doing those triple axels.
But it sure looked like she was jumping and skating like Tonya.
Documentary Feature: Icarus
An interesting expose into the doping within sports, most
notably Olympic athletes by the Russians, this is a well-done documentary that
plays like a thriller.
Costume Design: Beauty and the Beast
Great costuming, and so many different styles of dress
really helped tell the classic story.
Director: Guillermo del Toro, The
Shape of Water
He made this monster movie that is so much more fit together
perfectly.
Cinematography: The Shape of Water
Beautiful visuals, from the opening scene to the last.
Supporting Actress: Laurie Metcalf, Lady
Bird
A nuanced performance of a demanding mother with heart not
quite ready to let go.
Actress: Sally Hawkins, The
Shape of Water
The range of emotion she gives in this superior film is
extraordinary. And without talking. Wow.
Picture: The Shape of Water
This is the one that will be remembered for years to come,
and watched again and again.
Who do you want to win in your favorite category?
Enjoy the Awards show, and I’ll post again later in the
week.
Hi Sue - I saw the van Gogh one recently ... it was stunning - so interesting and so well done ... we shall see what happens ... The one I didn't enjoy much was Lady Bird .. probably because I haven't got children ... but in a few hours we shall know! cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteLoving Vincent was a really wonderful film. I liked Lady Bird, even though I don't have children either. I guess I liked Lady Bird's strong sense of individuality. Too bad neither of those films won at the Oscars!
DeleteBeing not a film critic, I do not pretend to know what makes for an Oscar-worthy film. Be that as it may, my choice for Best Film is The Post. Art should reflect the times, and given that we we are living in the most critical time in history, creative energy should not be wasted on mere entertainment. It troubles me to imagine a survivor in a post apocalyptic world looking to our time and wondering how the best creative moment — when change might have occurred — was a story of a romance between a woman and a swamp creature. Not to diminish this film, but given what's at stake, I think the the message of the film The Post is worth an Academy nod.
ReplyDeleteThe Post was a really good film, and I hope it will be shown in high schools and colleges as part of an entertaining way to understand U.S. history, and the need for a free press. And I hope people streaming a film at home will choose to see The Post.
DeleteThe Shape of Water deserved to win in my opinion, because it touches on how to treat others who are not like us. It shows us what it means to be human, compassionate and accepting, whether someone is mute, gay, or a swamp creature. Extraordinary film.