The 97th Academy Award nominations are here!
Oscar nominations can stir a whirlwind of emotions, combining excitement with disappointment. Selena Gomez, known for her striking role in “Emilia Pérez,” and Demi Moore, celebrated for her powerful performance in “The Substance,” stand out amid significant snubs and surprises this year.
As viewers keenly anticipate the Oscar night spectacle, some narratives emerge louder than others. Here’s an introspective look at notable snubs and unexpected nominations.
Stunning Snubs This Awards Season
Selena Gomez, “Emilia Pérez”
Selena Gomez’s portrayal of Jessi Del Monte, the wife of a cartel leader, in “Emilia Pérez” was critically acclaimed, yet alas, she was overlooked in the nominations. It’s worth reflecting on the message of her character. In discussions before the awards, she poignantly stated, “These women are mothers, they are fighters for justice in compromising situations.” Such statements underline how deeply relevant her performance is to ongoing conversations about female empowerment in today’s society.
Denzel Washington, “Gladiator II”
Denzel Washington, a titan in Hollywood, racked up his 11th Golden Globe nomination for “Gladiator II,” marking a historic achievement for Black actors. Yet, in a disappointing twist, he wasn’t nominated for an Academy Award. Sometimes, merit becomes obscured by the competitive landscape, and this moment raises questions about recognition and value in an often tumultuous industry.
Nicole Kidman, “Baby Girl”
Nicole Kidman embraced a raw role as Romy, a powerful CEO entangled in a scandalous affair. She candidly spoke about the beauty in being viewed as a “sexual being” at 57 years old. It speaks volumes that she sees value in representation—how there’s still a place for women to explore their desires and vulnerabilities on screen. This poignant revelation serves to challenge societal norms about age and femininity.
Angelina Jolie, “Maria”
Angelina Jolie, who dedicated herself to perfecting her role as opera diva Maria Callas, showed immense commitment through rigorous training that spanned several months. With a mixture of passion and nostalgia, she reflected on sacrificing her glamorous persona for authenticity, emphasizing that her identity as a mother sometimes grounded her in humility. The sacrifices made for art can transcend the screen, connecting deeply with the audience.
Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl”
Pamela Anderson’s role in “The Last Showgirl” represents more than just an acting endeavor; it’s symbolic of the struggles faced by women within the entertainment industry. Her assertion that landing such a role at this stage in her career “came at the right time” resonates with many in an ageist society, illustrating a personal renaissance and resilience that defies the norm.
Unexpected Triumphs That Surprised Us All
Demi Moore, “The Substance”
Demi Moore made headlines with her first-ever Oscar nomination for her poignant performance in “The Substance.” Her artistic bravery in confronting the raw realities and vulnerabilities of aging gave rise to an emotional connection that is often elusive. Moore described the film as liberating, where she embraced flaws instead of fleeing from them. Such courage is often reflected in the best kind of storytelling.
The awards season stirs excitement—with the nominations reminding us that talent is sometimes overlooked, yet also celebrating unexpected achievements. It’s a delicate dance of recognition and resilience, resonating far beyond the glittering confines of Hollywood.
