2023 Oscar Nominations Reaction

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The nominations for this year’s Academy Awards were announced early Tuesday morning. Overall, the nominations went as expected in most categories. However, as is the case almost every year, there were a few notable absences and shocking surprises. None more so than in the Best Actress category. Keep reading for my breakdown of some of the major categories. 

BEST ACTRESS

Unquestionably the category that drew the biggest gasps and surprise on Tuesday morning. Here are the five women the Academy voted for: 

  • Cate Blanchet – Tár 
  • Michelle Williams – The Fableman 
  • Michelle Yeoh – Everything Everywhere All At Once 
  • Andrea Riseborough – To Leslie 
  • Ana de Armas – Blonde 

And here are the five women many expected to receive the nomination: 

  • Cate Blanchett – Tár
  • Michelle Yeoh – Everything Everywhere All At Once 
  • Viola Davis – The Woman King 
  • Danielle Deadwyler – Till 
  • Michelle Williams or Ana de Armas – The Fabelmans/Blonde 

In other words, many accepted that the fifth spot was a toss-up but not at the expense of both Viola Davis and Danielle Deadwyler. Many considered Michelle Williams and Ana de Armas as tentative. However, I disagreed about Ana de Armas. 

Many allowed their hatred and in some cases, those who didn’t even see the film, the negative public reaction to Blonde, to cloud their judgments. And in doing so, ignored all the glaringly obvious signs that Ana de Armas was more than a tentative possibility to be nominated. 

Because in reality, Ana has consistently shown up across various major Guilds and voting bodies – a strong indicator that an actor will likely be nominated. She received a nomination for the Globes, SAG, and BAFTA. Similarly, Viola was also a consistent presence across the various voting bodies. Her not being nominated is shocking. 

However, opposite Viola and Ana’s strong showing throughout the season was Michelle Williams, who missed out on SAG and BAFTA. She was the question mark heading into Tuesday’s announcement and in that vein, was a surprise, though not necessarily shocking, nominee. Because despite missing out on some key awards, Williams was a four-time Oscar nominee (now five-time) in a film that was guaranteed a Best Picture nomination, along with other key categories. Her inclusion was always a strong possibility. 

The real surprise and “upset” in this category was Andrea Riseborough’s nomination. A nomination that’s garnering some controversy, not only because many view it as the “black actresses were booted in favor of another white actress,” but also for how Riseborough appeared to get on voters’ radar. Within the last month or two, a growing groundswell of support from some big names in Hollywood built around the actress’ performance. 

With many of these big names – such as Charlize Theron, Kate Winslet, fellow nominee Cate Blanchett, Edward Norton, and more – promoting support for Riseborough’s performance on social media, organizing Q&A with film media and voters, etc. While some are applauding the move, considering it a potential positive game-changer where a film will no longer need to have a big campaign budget behind it to get an Oscar nomination, others are calling foul. 

The argument is this was a clear case of an elitist group of Hollywood big names essentially trying to manipulate the Academy voting process. And before you scoff, the Academy recently put out a statement declaring their intent to investigate award campaigning guidelines, to confirm whether or not any were broken. They don’t directly mention Riseborough’s nomination, however, we can all read between the lines. It will be very interesting to see, if anything, comes from this. 

BEST ACTOR

The nominees are: 

  • Austin Butler – Elvis 
  • Colin Farrell – The Banshees of Inisherin 
  • Brendan Fraser – The Whale 
  • Bill Nighy – Living 
  • Paul Mescal – Aftersun 

The complete opposite of the Best Actress category, the Best Actor nominees shaped up as many predicted. The fifth spot, as is often the case, was a toss-up, with some still hoping Tom Cruise would get in for Top Gun: Maverick, others predicting a complete outlier like Hugh Jackman for The Son or Jeremy Pope for The Inspector. 

However, in the final weeks before the announcement, most pundits acknowledged that the tide was shifting heavily in Paul Mescal’s favor. So really not a surprise he took the final spot. Fun fact, every actor in the category is a first-time nominee. 

BEST DIRECTOR

The nominees are: 

  • Steven Spielberg – The Fabelmans 
  • Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert – Everything Everywhere All At Once 
  • Todd Field – Tár
  • Martin McDonaugh – The Banshees of Inisherin 
  • Ruben Östlund – Triangle of Sadness 

Once again, nothing too shocking here as the four solid locks expected to get in did. The fifth spot was anyone’s guess. While many predicted Edward Berger for All Quiet on the Western Front or big names like James Cameron and Baz Lurhuman, the fact that Triangle of Sadness got a Best Picture nomination makes Östlund’s nomination less surprising. 

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS 

The nominees are:

  • Angela Bassett – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever 
  • Hong Chau – The Whale 
  • Kerry Condon – The Banshees of Inisherin 
  • Jamie Lee Curtis – Everything Everywhere All At Once 
  • Stephanie Hsu – Everything Everywhere All At Once 

No surprise in this category. The only question mark going into Tuesday’s nomination announcement was whether or not both actresses from Everything Everywhere All At Once would be nominated. Specifically, would Stephanie Hsu be left off the list, in favor of Dolly DeLeon for her amazing performance in Triangle of Sadness? But as we saw with their leading 11 nominations, Academy voters were feeling the Everything Everywhere love. And that extended to celebrating both Jamie Lee Curtis and Stephanie Hsu’s performances. 

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR 

The nominees are: 

  • Brendan Gleeson – The Banshees of Inisherin 
  • Brian Tyree Henry – Causeway
  • Judd Hirsh – The Fabelmans 
  • Barry Keoghan – The Banshees of Inisherin 
  • Ke Huy Quan – Everything Everywhere All At Once 

This category was a bit more wide open than the other acting categories. Perhaps the only solid locks for a nomination were Ke Huy Quan (who is likely going to win) and Brendan Gleeson. As such, there was no real shocking surprise in the list of nominees. 

Perhaps the most surprising nomination was Brian Tyree Henry’s, as he’d missed out on many of the precursors – no Globe, SAG, or BAFTA nomination. However, his performance in Causeway is critically lauded and was one of the most talked about performances in the early days of Award season. 

It was also a toss-up whether Judd Hirsh or Paul Dano would get in, both for The Fablemans. Dano had the more visible role in the film, while Hirsh, whose presence was minimal, had a “big moment” scene. Not to mention he’s a well-respected, legendary actor. So not a total surprise the voters went in his favor. 

BEST PICTURE 

The nominees are:

  • All Quiet on the Western Front 
  • Avatar: The Way of Water 
  • The Banshees of Inisherin 
  • Elvis
  • Everything Everywhere All At Once 
  • The Fabelmans 
  • Tár
  • Top Gun: Maverick 
  • Triangle of Sadness 
  • Women Talking 

No big surprises, other than Women Talking getting nominated. Based on the few nominations it received overall throughout the Awards Season, some speculated that the film was unlikely to get a Best Picture nomination. Triangle of Sadness is also somewhat of a surprise. However, with its showing up in some big categories, like Best Director, it’s clear that the voters loved the film. 

As to who and what will ultimately win, hard to say. Other than a few categories, I would say let’s wait and see what happens at SAG and BAFTA. The two are likely to tell the tale. 

2023 Golden Globes Predictions

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The Golden Globes are officially back, albeit with an odd Tuesday airdate. The ceremony once dubbed the “biggest party in Hollywood,” is back on air after two years mired in controversy that saw NBC choosing not to air it in 2022. There’s still a huge question mark on whether or not all is forgiven or if a significant segment of the industry remains wary of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA). 

It was hard to miss that unlike previous years and compared to other award shows, many of the nominees barely reacted to their nominations. Jerrod Carmichael is this year’s host, a decision that I’m sure some view as a bit of “pandering,” as much of the HFPA’s controversy is intermingled with racial discrimination by the organization. 

Full disclosure, I’m excited to have the ceremony back. I’ve made no secret that the Globes were consistently one of my favorite award show ceremonies. And while I am not dismissing the problematic aspects of the HFPA, as I stated in my blog post addressing the controversy, I believe that much of Hollywood’s reaction to the controversy has been a bit performative. 

That said, with the show back on the air, it’s time for me to make some predictions, half of which will probably be wrong. Because predicting how the HFPA will vote is always a crapshoot, which is half the fun. 

Best Motion Picture, Drama

  • Avatar: The Way of Water 
  • Elvis
  • The Fabelmans 
  • Tár 
  • Top Gun: Maverick

Will Win – Right off the bat, I’m going to hedge my bets and pick two options. I think the winner will likely be Avatar or Elvis. HFPA loves films like Elvis and are more receptive to Baz Luhrmann’s aesthetic, more so than perhaps the Oscars might be. That said, I also think a big-budget, extravagant production like Avatar is also right up their alley. So my money is on one of these two to take it. 

Best Picture, Musical or Comedy

  • Babylon
  • The Banshees of Inisherin
  • Everything Everywhere All at Once
  • Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
  • Triangle of Sadness

Will Win – A few months ago, I would have said this is a lock for The Banshees of Inisherin. However, Babylon appears to have picked up some serious momentum in recent weeks and of course Everything Everywhere All at Once has topped almost every critic’s list in the last year. Still, I’m putting my money on The Banshees of Inisherin to win. 

Best Director, Motion Picture

  • James Cameron (“Avatar: The Way of Water”) 
  • Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”) 
  • Baz Luhrmann (“Elvis”) 
  • Martin McDonagh (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) 
  • Steven Spielberg (“The Fabelmans”)

Will Win – Another category where I’m going to hedge my bets. A small voice in my head says that the HFPA voters will be swayed by the grandiosity of Avatar and reward James Cameron for pulling it all together. Another little voice however, says they will not be able to resist rewarding a legend like Steven Spielberg for a project that is so deeply personal to him. 

Best Screenplay, Motion Picture

  • Tár — Todd Field 
  • Everything Everywhere All at Once — Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert 
  • The Banshees of Inisherin — Martin McDonagh 
  • Women Talking — Sarah Polley 
  • The Fabelmans — Steven Spielberg, Tony Kushner

Will Win – This category is always a total crapshoot, only because, unlike the other major award shows, Globes do not make a distinction between Original and Adapted Screenplay. A distinction that can often skew the final results. However, since I have to make a prediction, I’m going to say The Banshees of Inisherin will win for a screenplay that is quirky, offbeat, and overall, fun. 

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama

  • Austin Butler (“Elvis”) 
  • Brendan Fraser (“The Whale”) 
  • Hugh Jackman (“The Son”)
  • Bill Nighy (“Living”) 
  • Jeremy Pope (“The Inspection”)

Will Win – Let me first say that I still believe the Academy Award will come down to Brendan Fraser versus Colin Farrell. That said, I think Austin Butler is going to take this one. Once again, it’s the type of role that HFPA voters love – think Rami Malek in Bohemian Rhapsody and Taron Edgerton in Rocketman. 

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama

  • Cate Blanchett (“Tár”) 
  • Olivia Colman (“Empire of Light”) 
  • Viola Davis (“The Woman King”) 
  • Ana de Armas (“Blonde”) 
  • Michelle Williams (“The Fabelmans”)  

Will Win – Queen Blanchett will begin her likely run toward a third Oscar. With her toughest challenger, Michelle Yeoh, competing in Comedy or Musical, this is a slam dunk for Cate. 

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy

  • Lesley Manville (“Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris”) 
  • Margot Robbie (“Babylon”) 
  • Anya Taylor-Joy (“The Menu”) 
  • Emma Thompson (“Good Luck to You, Leo Grande”) 
  • Michelle Yeoh (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”) 

Will Win – As noted above, with Michelle Yeoh the only one to conceivably pose a real threat to Cate Blanchett’s winning the Oscar for Best Actress, it’s hard to bet against her in this category. A potential spoiler could be Margot Robbie, depending on how big the love for Babylon is. However, I believe this is Yeoh’s to lose. 

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy

  • Diego Calva (“Babylon”) 
  • Daniel Craig (“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery”)
  • Adam Driver (“White Noise”) 
  • Colin Farrell (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) 
  • Ralph Fiennes (“The Menu”) 

Will Win – In recent weeks, Colin Farrell has emerged as a heavy favorite to win Best Actor, come Oscar Sunday. We’ll have to wait and see if that comes to fruition, but right now, I’ll say he’s a definite lock to win this category. 

Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture

  • Brendan Gleeson (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) 
  • Barry Keoghan (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) 
  • Brad Pitt (“Babylon”)
  • Ke Huy Quan (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”) 
  • Eddie Redmayne (“The Good Nurse”)

Will Win – There’s always a concern about the possibility of splitting votes when two actors from the same film are in a category. I don’t think this will be an issue for Brendan Gleeson, who is still a heavy Oscar favorite. That said, I believe this category may come down to which film the HFPA voters love more – Everything Everywhere All at Once or The Banshees of Inisherin. I know Ke Huy Quan is the oddsmaker’s favorite to win the Oscar, but I think Brendan Gleeson, a legendary actor, will ultimately prevail here. 

Best Supporting Actress, Motion Picture

  • Angela Bassett (“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”) 
  • Kerry Condon (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) 
  • Jamie Lee Curtis (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”) 
  • Dolly De Leon (“Triangle of Sadness”)
  • Carey Mulligan (“She Said”)

Will Win – There were some surprising snubs in this category, namely Claire Foy for Women Talking and Stephanie Hsu for Everything Everywhere All at Once. With those omissions, it is hard to bet against Kerry Condon, a consistent presence in the Supporting Actress race. 

Best Television Series, Drama

  • Better Call Saul
  • The Crown
  • House of the Dragon
  • Ozark
  • Severance 

Will Win – I always say that HFPA loves quirky, and fresh new shows, which would suggest that Severance is the likely winner. That said, the voters also love big productions, which fall right in the House of the Dragon’s wheelhouse. So which one will it be? My guess; the House of the Dragon will emerge victorious. 

Best Television Series, Musical or Comedy

  • Abbott Elementary
  • The Bear
  • Hacks
  • Only Murders in the Building
  • Wednesday

Will Win – About that whole thing of HFPA voters loving fresh, offbeat, and quirky shows – look for The Bear to pull out the win in this category. That said, I wouldn’t be too shocked by a surprise win in Wednesday’s favor. Because once again, it’s the kind of move that’s right up the HFPA alley. 

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series, Drama

  • Jeff Bridges (“The Old Man”) 
  • Kevin Costner (“Yellowstone”)
  • Diego Luna (“Andor”)
  • Bob Odenkirk (“Better Call Saul”)
  • Adam Scott (“Severance”)

Will Win – This is an intriguing category. Although I think House of the Dragon will win Best Drama, interestingly, none of the actors from the show were nominated. Yellowstone has been an underrated cult favorite that finally seems to be getting its due. All that said, I think this may come down to Jeff Bridges or Adam Scott. Bridges because he’s a legendary, well-respected actor in a little-watched yet critically acclaimed show, and Scott for being in the aforementioned fresh and quirky new show. 

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series, Drama

  • Emma D’Arcy (“House of the Dragon”) 
  • Laura Linney (“Ozark”) 
  • Imelda Staunton (“The Crown”)
  • Hilary Swank (“Alaska Daily”)
  • Zendaya (“Euphoria”)

Will Win – Zendaya has been on a winning streak for her performance in Euphoria and that is unlikely to change on Tuesday night.

Best Actress in a TV Series, Musical or Comedy

  • Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”) 
  • Kaley Cuoco (“The Flight Attendant”) 
  • Selena Gomez (“Only Murders in the Building”) 
  • Jenna Ortega (“Wednesday”) 
  • Jean Smart (“Hacks”) 

Will Win – I’m sure you’re all sick of me saying it, but once again, HFPA loves to reward new fresh faces. While this category will consistently be a fight between Jean Smart and Quinta Brunson at all other big award shows, look for Jenna Ortega to pull off the big upset on January 10. 

Best Actor in a TV Series, Musical or Comedy

  • Donald Glover (“Atlanta”) 
  • Bill Hader (“Barry”) 
  • Steve Martin (“Only Murders in the Building”) 
  • Martin Short (“Only Murders in the Building”) 
  • Jeremy Allen White (“The Bear”) 

Will Win – There are some big names and heavy hitters in this category. However, the winner will be the underdog, Jeremy Allen White. Like Jenna Ortega, HFPA voters will reward the fresh face (well fresh relative to the other actors who’ve all been in this category before) from the new breakout show. 

Best Supporting Actor, Television

  • John Lithgow (“The Old Man”) 
  • Jonathan Pryce (“The Crown”) 
  • John Turturro (“Severance”) 
  • Tyler James Williams (“Abbott Elementary”) 
  • Henry Winkler (“Barry”)

Will Win – Lithgow is always a formidable force in any category, so look for him to be the heavy favorite. My guess is this will come down to either him or John Turturro. 

Best Supporting Actress, Television

  • Elizabeth Debicki (“The Crown”) 
  • Hannah Einbinder (“Hacks”) 
  • Julia Garner (“Ozark”) 
  • Janelle James (“Abbott Elementary”) 
  • Sheryl Lee Ralph (“Abbott Elementary”) 

Will Win – Personally my vote in this category would go to Janelle James for her always hilarious portrayal of Principal Ava Coleman on Abbott Elementary. That said, I believe this will be an Ozark vs. Hacks battle, with the winner either Hannah Einbinder or Julia Garner. 

Best Limited Series, Anthology Series or a Motion Picture made for Television

  • Black Bird
  • Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story
  • The Dropout
  • Pam & Tommy
  • The White Lotus

Will Win – It’s interesting seeing some of these nominees next to newer, more recent shows. At this point, it almost feels like Pam & Tommy came out two years ago. As lauded as The White Lotus has been, I believe Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story will steal its thunder. One, because it was a popular and hotly-debated limited series, and two, both of Ryan Murphy’s previous limited series in this vein were rewarded by the Globes – The People vs. OJ Simpson and The Assassination of Gianni Versace.  

Best Performance by an Actor, Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture made for Television

  • Taron Egerton (“Black Bird”) 
  • Colin Firth (“The Staircase”) 
  • Andrew Garfield (“Under the Banner of Heaven”) 
  • Evan Peters (“Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”) 
  • Sebastian Stan (“Pam & Tommy”) 

Will Win – Whatever one’s personal feelings about the show, no one could deny the career-defining performance Evan Peters delivered in Monster. He will be rewarded for it. 

Best Performance by an Actress, Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture made for Television

  • Jessica Chastain (“George and Tammy”) 
  • Julia Garner (“Inventing Anna”) 
  • Lily James (“Pam & Tommy”) 
  • Julia Roberts (“Gaslit”) 
  • Amanda Seyfried (“The Dropout”) 

Will Win – There are certainly some big names in this category. However, I believe HFPA voters will stay the course on this one and give Amanda Seyfried another award to add to her growing trophy cabinet. 

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role, Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture made for Television

  • Jennifer Coolidge (“The White Lotus”) 
  • Claire Danes (“Fleishman Is in Trouble”) 
  • Daisy Edgar-Jones (“Under the Banner of Heaven”) 
  • Niecy Nash-Betts (“Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”) 
  • Aubrey Plaza (“The White Lotus”) 

Will Win – Though not the lead, Niecy Nash-Betts, like Evan Peters, delivered what is to this point, the performance of her career in Monster. She is my favorite to win but depending on how much HFPA is feeling The White Lotus love, Jennifer Coolidge has a strong chance of repeating her Emmy glory. 

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role, Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture made for Television

  • F. Murray Abraham (“The White Lotus”) 
  • Domhnall Gleeson (“The Patient”) 
  • Paul Walter Hauser (“Black Bird”) 
  • Richard Jenkins (“Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”) 
  • Seth Rogen (“Pam & Tommy”) 

Will Win – This one is a big toss-up for me so I’m going to go with my gut and say Richard Jenkins will win, assuming HFPA voters aren’t as enamored as the Television Academy was by White Lotus. In which case, then F. Murray Abraham will win.

Best Original Score, Motion Picture

  • The Banshees of Inisherin — Carter Burwell
  • Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio — Alexandre Desplat 
  • Women Talking — Hildur Guðnadóttir 
  • Babylon — Justin Hurwitz 
  • The Fabelmans — John Williams  

Will Win – The Fablemans is the type of film that fits perfectly with a classic John Williams score. And come Tuesday night, it will very likely win.  

Best Picture, Non-English Language

  • All Quiet on the Western Front (Germany) 
  • Argentina, 1985 (Argentina) 
  • Close (Belgium) 
  • Decision to Leave (South Korea) 
  • RRR (India) 

Will Win – With no clear favorite this year, a la Roma or Parasite a few years ago, this can go many ways. However, RRR is the only nominee that shows up in another category (Original Song), and for that, I’ll go with it as the likely winner. 

Best Original Song, Motion Picture

  • “Carolina” from “Where the Crawdads Sing” — Taylor Swift 
  • “Ciao Papa” from “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” — Alexandre Desplat, Roeban Katz, Guillermo del Toro 
  • “Hold My Hand” from “Top Gun: Maverick” — Lady Gaga, BloodPop, Benjamin Rice
  • “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” — Tems, Ludwig Göransson, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler 
  • “Naatu Naatu” from “RRR” — Kala Bhairava, M. M. Keeravani, Rahul Sipligunj 

Will Win – While it seems like the entire world is currently obsessed with all things Taylor Swift, HFPA has shown that they love Lady Gaga. With the massive success of Top Gun, I see this as the surefire category to show the movie some love. That and also, Hold My Hand is just a freaking awesome song. 

Best Motion Picture, Animated

  • Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio 
  • Inu-Oh
  • Marcel the Shell With Shoes On
  • Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 
  • Turning Red

Will Win – Hard to bet against a uniquely constructed film from an Oscar-winning legendary director. Pinnochio is the obvious winner here. 

2022 Primetime Emmy Awards Predictions

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So as it turns out, I am genuinely excited for this year’s Primetime Emmy Awards. Unfortunately, that has not been the case in recent years. Last year was understandably not the fault of the Academy or the various networks and streaming companies, as the pandemic wreaked havoc on the filming schedule for many shows. 

As a result, the categories perhaps weren’t as competitive. Not the case this year, where many of the races, particularly Drama and Comedy, are stacked. That also means that most of my predictions may turn out wrong. However, I’m still willing to sift through the tea leaves and give it the ‘old college try. So without further ado, here are my predictions for this year’s Primetime Emmy Awards. 

Best Drama Series 

  • Better Call Saul 
  • Euphoria 
  • Ozark  
  • Severance
  • Squid Game
  • Stranger Things
  • Succession  
  • Yellowjackets

Will Win – There’s been a lot of buzz in recent months that we’re likely to see history made at this year’s Primetime Emmys when the first non-English speaking series wins Best Drama. I am, of course, referring to Squid Game. However, call me stubborn, but I don’t think it’s going to happen. Not least of all that I think the days of Squid Game mania have died down significantly. Not surprising, as the show came out almost a year ago. I believe the Television Academy voters will play it safe, and Succession will repeat its 2020 win in this category. 

Could Win – Squid Game, for obvious reasons. I would also throw in Severance as a potential dark horse. 

Lead Actor in a Drama Series 

  • Jason Bateman (Ozark) 
  • Brian Cox (Succession)  
  • Lee Jung-jae (Squid Game)   
  • Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul)  
  • Adam Scott (Severance)  
  • Jeremy Strong (Succession) 

Will Win – Much like the Drama Series category, there is a lot of talk about the possibility of Lee Jung-jae repeating his SAG and Critics Choice successes in this category. The other heavy favorite is Bob Odenkirk for Better Call Saul’s final season, a show that’s consistently nominated but has never won. Regarding the latter, Academy voters aren’t always susceptible to “it’s the last season, so let’s vote for him or her.” See Steve Carrell for The Office. So I’m not entirely sold on Odenkirk being a sure thing just because Better Call Saul has ended. Television Academy voters have shown many times that they’re not opposed to repeating winners, which is why I think Jeremy Strong will win. 

Could Win – Lee Jung-jae or Bob Odenkirk. And, in fairness, this is just one of the many categories this year where as many as four of the nominees would be more than deserving. 

Lead Actress in a Drama Series 

  • Jodie Comer (Killing Eve)
  • Laura Linney (Ozark)  
  • Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets)  
  • Sandra Oh (Killing Eve)  
  • Reese Witherspoon (The Morning Show)   
  • Zendaya (Euphoria) 

Will Win – This is a potential three-way race between Zendaya, Melanie Lynskey, and Laura Linney. The latter is the least likely to win of the three. Most critics and pundits seem to agree that based purely on the nominees’ submitted performances, Zendaya should win this award. However, we all know award shows are as much about the intangibles as they are about the actual performances. And some of the intangibles here are that Zendaya’s already won. Will the Academy vote to award her again, so soon? There’s also been very vocal grassroots support for Lynskey. All that said, I still think Zendaya’s going to win. And yes, I realize that means I think the Drama categories will be a repeat of 2020. Euphoria’s inclusion in the Drama Series category, coupled with the numerous other nominations it received, I believe shows that the Academy has great respect for the show overall. And it’s universally acknowledged that Zendaya’s performance this past season was stellar. 

Could Win – Melanie Lynskey, of course. But don’t sleep on Laura Linney who is an industry veteran with three previous Emmy wins. This is also her final chance to win for her role on Ozark. 

Supporting Actor in a Drama Series 

  • Nicholas Braun (Succession)
  • Billy Crudup (The Morning Show)
  • Kieran Culkin (Succession)
  • Park Hae-soo (Squid Game)
  • Matthew Macfadyen (Succession)
  • John Turturro (Severance)
  • Christopher Walken (Severance)
  • Oh Yeong-su (Squid Game)

Will Win – The consensus appears to be that this is a fight between the Succession guys – well, two of them (no offense Nicholas Braun – but the nomination was the win here). That is, Kieran Culkin and Matthew Macfadyen, with many pundits predicting Macfadyen to take it. However, I think this is finally Kieran Culkin’s time. He’s been a standout on the show from the start but has yet to get Emmy glory. I believe it’ll happen this year. 

Could Win – Matthew Macfadyen. However, I wouldn’t completely discount the Severance actors, as we saw Billy Crudup sweep in and win for The Morning Show two years ago. Turturro and Walken are both legendary, well-respected actors on a critically acclaimed show. That’s always a great recipe for a win. 

Supporting Actress in a Drama Series 

  • Patricia Arquette (Severance)
  • Julia Garner (Ozark)
  • Jung Ho-yeon (Squid Game)
  • Christina Ricci (Yellowjackets)
  • Rhea Seehorn (Better Call Saul)
  • J. Smith-Cameron (Succession)
  • Sarah Snook (Succession)
  • Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria)

Will Win – I admit I’m the most unsure with this category. So I’ll defer to the critics, and go with Rhea Seehorn. 

Could Win – It’d certainly be silly to bet entirely against someone who’s won this category multiple times. And for that reason, I have to say Julia Garner is a strong possibility to win.

Best Limited Series 

  • Dopesick 
  • The Dropout 
  • Inventing Anna 
  • Pam and Tommy 
  • The White Lotus 

Will Win – Contrary to the above, I’m going to go against the popular opinion, which predicts a win for The White Lotus, and say Dopesick is going to win. It’s my belief that everything about Dopesick is perfect for a win in this category – great acting, an important story that explores a very real and complex issue, character-driven, etc. 

Could Win – This is a two-way race between Dopesick and The White Lotus. So if the former doesn’t win, it’ll be the latter. 

Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie 

  • Colin Firth (The Staircase) 
  • Andrew Garfield (Under the Banner of Heaven)
  • Oscar Isaac (Scenes From a Marriage)  
  • Michael Keaton (Dopesick)  
  • Himesh Patel (Station Eleven)  
  • Sebastian Stan (Pam and Tommy) 

Will Win – This may be the most sewn-up category of the night. It’s going to be Michael Keaton for Dopesick, without question. 

Could Win – Michael Keaton. Okay, yes, I should acknowledge the buzz around Himesh Patel’s performance in Station Eleven. But I don’t think voters will switch from Keaton in this category. 

Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie 

  • Toni Collette (The Staircase) 
  • Julia Garner (“Inventing Anna”)  
  • Lily James (“Pam and Tommy”)  
  • Sarah Paulson (“Impeachment: American Crime Story”)
  • Margaret Qualley (“Maid”)  
  • Amanda Seyfried (“The Dropout”) 

Will Win – This is a tough category because at least four of these women gave stellar performances. That said, it’s still mostly a one-woman race, and that’s Amanda Seyfried. She gave herself completely over to embody every facet of Elizabeth Holmes. 

Could Win – I think both Margaret Qualley and Toni Collette are significant threats in this category. I’ve heard the talk about Lily James possibly winning. However, I don’t see it happening. 

Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie 

  • Murray Bartlett (The White Lotus) 
  • Jake Lacy (The White Lotus)
  • Will Poulter (Dopesick)
  • Seth Rogen (Pam & Tommy)
  • Peter Sarsgaard (Dopesick)
  • Michael Stuhlbarg (Dopesick)
  • Steve Zahn (The White Lotus)

Will Win – Another category I’m not as confident about, so I’ll defer to the pundits, who all appear to believe it’s a slam-dunk for Murray Bartlett. 

Could Win – There’s been a lot of talk about Seth Rogen’s performance in Pam & Tommy. So a possible win here would not be that shocking. 

Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie 

  • Connie Britton (The White Lotus)
  • Jennifer Coolidge (The White Lotus)
  • Alexandra Daddario (The White Lotus)
  • Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick)
  • Natasha Rothwell (The White Lotus)
  • Sydney Sweeney (The White Lotus)
  • Mare Winningham (Dopesick)

Will Win – Putting aside that the Television Academy apparently didn’t think any actress outside of The White Lotus and Dopesick gave a strong supporting performance, this is a likely sure thing for Jennifer Coolidge. 

Could Win – Mare Winningham gave the type of performance in Dopesick that voters love – emotional, heart-wrenching, and deeply internalized. 

Outstanding Comedy Series 

  • Abbott Elementary 
  • Barry
  • Curb Your Enthusiasm 
  • Hacks 
  • The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel 
  • Only Murders In the Building 
  • Ted Lasso
  • What We Do In the Shadows 

Will Win – Whoo boy the comedy categories are a doozy this year. For most of the categories, there are at least three or four potential winners. And the Comedy Series category is no different. Ted Lasso still has a lot of buzz around it, Hacks has only gone from strength to strength, Barry is back after a long wait, Only Murders in the Building is in the mix for the first time, and of course, there’s the network darling, Abbott Elementary. So which one will take it? I am genuinely torn on this one and so I’m going with my gut and picking Abbot Elementary. 

Could Win – Ted Lasso or Only Murders in the Building. I don’t think it will be Hacks or Barry, great as they are. 

Lead Actor in a Comedy Series 

  • Donald Glover (Atlanta) 
  • Bill Hader (Barry)  
  • Nicholas Hoult (The Great)
  • Steve Martin (Only Murders in the Building)   
  • Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building)  
  • Jason Sudeikis (Ted Lasso) 

Will Win – As I said, the comedy categories are a doozy. Either of the four of Bill Hader, Jason Sudeikis, Steve Martin, and Martin Short could win here. That said, I will go against the consensus that seems to believe Bill Hader is the likely winner and pick Jason Sudeikis. 

Can Win – Bill Hader or Steve Martin. Martin may win just for that brilliant elevator scene alone. And it would be well-deserved. 

Lead Actress in a Comedy Series 

  • Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel)
  • Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary)  
  • Kaley Cuoco (The Flight Attendant)  
  • Elle Fanning (The Great)  
  • Issa Rae (Insecure)
  • Jean Smart (Hacks)

Will Win – Unlike Comedy Series and Lead Actor, this category is less competitive, with the winner likely coming down to just two women – Jean Smart and Quinta Brunson. My gut says it will be the former. I believe Brunson’s glory will come for writing for a Comedy Series, for which she’s nominated. 

Could Win – Quinta Brunson. 

Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series 

  • Anthony Carrigan (Barry)
  • Brett Goldstein (Ted Lasso)
  • Toheeb Jimoh (Ted Lasso)
  • Nick Mohammed (Ted Lasso)
  • Tony Shalhoub (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel)
  • Tyler James Williams (Abbott Elementary)
  • Henry Winkler (Barry)
  • Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live)

Will Win – There’s been a lot of talk that this category will likely come down to the Ted Lasso actors, with Toheeb Jimoh edging out last year’s winner, Brett Goldstein. I don’t think that will be the case. I think Goldstein, like Sudeikis, will repeat. 

Could Win – Toheeb Jimoh and Henry Winkler. I wouldn’t count Henry Winkler out here. 

Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series 

  • Alex Borstein (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) 
  • Hannah Einbinder (Hacks)
  • Janelle James (Abbott Elementary)
  • Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live)
  • Sarah Niles (Ted Lasso)
  • Sheryl Lee Ralph (Abbott Elementary)
  • Juno Temple (Ted Lasso)
  • Hannah Waddingham (Ted Lasso)

Will Win – Many pundits believe this will be a battle of the two Hannahs, with Hannah Waddingham edging out the win. Not a wild prediction as Waddingham has been on a roll, winning everything last year, including the Emmy. And she had another stellar performance this past season of Ted Lasso. However, I’m going to swerve away from the consensus and say Janelle James will win for Abbott Elementary. While the entire cast of Abbott Elementary is amazing, and it would be nice to see an industry vet like Sheryl Lee Ralph get her flowers, James’ Ava was the true scene stealer of the season.


Could Win – Hannah Waddingham or Hannah Einbinder. Unfortunately, I don’t think Ralph has a real shot in this category. If the voters stick to the predictable choices, the winner will likely be one of the Hannahs.

10 Literary Classics That Hit Just Right

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For anyone who’s ever taken an English Literature class, you remember it well. The required reading is often loaded with “classics.” Those novels that are considered some of the greatest literature of all time and a must-read for everyone at least once in their lifetime. 

Unfortunately, some classics leave us bored and struggling to get through the whole thing. On the other hand, some are just right and have truly stood the test of time. The following are ten classics that are always worth reading. 

  • Wuthering Heights – Gothic imagery, toxic relationships, ghosts, love, hate, passion, and more. What could be better? Wuthering Heights, a book I affectionately sum up as “the love story of toxic assholes,” has it all. Unlikable protagonists that you don’t want to root for but still find fascinating because they’re so deliciously well-written. Not your mother’s romance novel, Wuthering Heights is a cautionary tale on the dangers of too much passion and how it can lead to the destruction of all who have the misfortune to be near it. 

  • The Outsiders – Full disclosure, I only recently read this one for the first time. It’s one of those classics that slipped under my radar for years. Having read it, I can say that the hype is fitting. It’s a simple story, told in just under 200 pages. Yet, author S.E. Hinton manages to pack a range of thematic emotions within that small time frame. And yes, the fact that Hinton began writing The Outsiders at just 14 years old, and completed it at the still young age of 16, makes it all the more impressive. 

  • To Kill a Mockingbird – A staple of most English Literature syllabuses, and for a good reason. It’s an excellent novel. Told through the innocence of a child’s eyes, To Kill a Mockingbird is a sobering exploration of race in the deep South during the Great Depression. And while perhaps not a fun read, it’s certainly an emotional one that explores various meaningful themes about life. 

  • Wide Sargasso Sea – Indeed, most people are likely far more familiar with this novel’s predecessor – Jane Eyre. And while Jane Eyre certainly holds its own among the pantheon of classics, Wide Sargasso Sea ranks higher for me. One reason is like author Jean Rys, I was more intrigued by the “crazy wife locked in the attic” while reading Jane Eyre than I ever was by Rochester or Jane and their ill-fated romance. I wondered why and how this woman went mad and why her husband thought locking her up in a tower was a sound idea. And Rys does an excellent job of transforming the “woman in the attic” from a shadowy, background character into a fully-realized person. 

  • The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn – I’ve read and understand the many criticisms about this book, namely Mark Twain’s use of some very offensive language. However, in my opinion, one has to consider that the novel is indicative of its time, in the way some films and music are. Once you do, I believe it’s easy to appreciate the heartfelt story that’s told. Huckleberry Finn is an unquestionably flawed character. However, there is a kindness and innocence that Twain expertly showcases through the unlikely friendship with Jim and their journey together along the Mississippi River. 

  • And Then There Were None – I love the Mystery/Thriller genre. It’s currently my favorite book genre. So naturally, I had to see for myself if the acclaim was warranted for what is dubbed, “one of the greatest mystery/thrillers of all time.” And yes, it is. Not even the fact that I figured out the guilty party halfway through the novel dampened my enjoyment. Because I was still captivated by the “why” and “how.” Obviously, the list of Agatha Christie’s collective works is long. However, there is a reason And Then There Were None remains a standout for many. 

  • East of Eden – If someone told me while reading the first 20 chapters of East of Eden, I’d come to love it and declare it one of my favorite classics, I would have laughed in their faces. That’s how difficult it was to initially get into the story. At some point however, it all came together and I found myself flying through the remaining chapters. East of Eden is a novel that takes its time developing the characters’ backstories, the story setting, and conflict. But when it’s firmly established, you’re left with an astounding, sweeping story of family, love, loss, and betrayal, all told alongside a rich undertone of biblical themes and imagery. 

  • The Scarlet Letter – Patriarchal rule negatively impacts and controls a woman. There’s something we’ve never seen (sarcasm is intentional). For this, and many other reasons, The Scarlet Letter is not exactly a fun or even easy book to read. But it is a significant and empowering read. Hester Pryne, although woefully mistreated, never allows herself to be a victim or cower in the shame that’s expected of her. 

  • Emma – This is one of my long-held “unpopular book opinions.” I know consensus dictates that I include Pride and Prejudice when considering Jane Austen’s works. However, Emma holds a special place in my heart. And to be clear, this does not mean I disliked Pride and Prejudice. Far from it. It’s just not high on my list of favorite classics. There is a lightness in Emma that I didn’t find in many of Austen’s other works. It’s just a fun read – from the hapless characters, to the constant miscommunication and heartwarming love stories. 

  • Othello – Yes, technically, this is a play and not a novel. But I say it still counts. The list of brilliant works from Shakespeare is long. And I enjoyed many of them. However, Othello ranks highly because it is predominantly told from the perspective of, in my opinion, one of the greatest literary villains of all time. Throughout the play, we follow this one man’s determination to destroy so many lives with no obvious motive. Yes, there was a desire for power, and potentially a racial component, since Othello was a man of color (another factor that makes the play so intriguing for its time). Or perhaps Iago was merely a psychopath or all of the above. The reader never knows the answer because Shakespeare cleverly ends the play with Iago’s resolution to not say why he made the choices he did. It’s all left up to the reader to figure it out. Othello is a fascinating character study because while the reader understandably hates Iago and his actions, he is still compelling.

Bridgerton – Can Fact and Fantasy Co-Exist?

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I know what you’re thinking, “great, another Bridgerton-related think piece.” It’s okay, I would say the same if I were reading this on someone else’s blog. But what can I say, in the words of the great Frank Costanza, “I’ve got some things to say.” 

As noted, there have certainly been a lot of opinions, discussions, narratives, and debates about Netflix’s breakout hit series. Remember all the heated discussions over “that scene” in Season 1? I’m sure you do. That controversy aside, perhaps the most oft-discussed and debated topic regarding the series, is race. 

In particular, the show’s much-lauded approach to what is considered “color-blind casting.” Color-blind casting, in layman’s terms, means casting without bias to race, gender, age, etc. In the case of Bridgerton, the show is particularly praised for its color-blind casting with regard to race. 

Set in Regency-Era England, historical accuracy would suggest that most members of the elite Ton would be all white. Certainly, it is highly unlikely that there would have been a prominent black Duke, as played by Regé-Jean Page in Season 1. And the most recent season featured a woman of Indian heritage as the lead romantic interest. 

Along with the interracial lead romances of Seasons 1 and 2, the Queen, the most powerful woman in the country, is a black woman. And the myriad of ball and promenade scenes all feature supporting characters of various races. However, while the show has been lauded for color-blind casting, a significant number of criticisms have also been levied at the show’s creators and writers. 

The most common is the debate of whether or not the show does a disservice by not acknowledging the dark reality of the show’s time period. In other words, as one scholar noted on a podcast I listened to some weeks ago; “as nice as it was to see dark-skinned Indian women represented in Season 2 with the Sharma sisters, the reality is that colonialism and British rule over India was a very ugly reality of that time.” 

That was not the first time I’d heard this point made. But for some reason, that particular podcast episode struck a chord, and I found myself pondering the issue a little deeper. And after some careful consideration, here’s where I stand. 

First, full disclosure, I am a black woman of color and History was also one of my favorite subjects in school. So I know all too well about the very dark period and atrocities of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, colonialism, and the early years of indentured servitude. I know and understand the history of exactly how Great Britain, and most Western European nations acquired much of their wealth and power. And two, I am always receptive to any piece of art that educates and continues to shed light on the atrocities and ugly history of that period. 

However, I do not believe Bridgerton is the show to depict that history lesson. Simply because the show exists in a reality that well…isn’t. Let me explain. Many argue that Bridgerton should not be applauded for its color-blind casting, as long it refuses to acknowledge, in-show, the realities of what was happening at the time. However, to acknowledge that reality would take the audience away from the fictional one the writers have created. 

Let’s be honest – Bridgerton is a soapy, romantic drama. Nothing more and nothing less. It’s a fun time for those who love historical romances and enjoy watching the pretty gowns, extravagant balls, and cliché romantic entanglements of two attractive leads. It’s escapism television. For eight hours, it invites the viewer into a beautiful, colorful, and sensuous world of lush scenery, good-looking characters, and all the twists, turns, and sex of any respectable soap opera. 

To ask that realism be brought into this world of fantasy and escapism is by its very context, a contradiction. Because once realism invades, then fantasy no longer exists. And then it’s no longer the same show. For example, if we suddenly have the characters within the show start discussing and acknowledging the horrific realities many black people faced at that time, we would then also have to question the believability of a black Duke existing. And of course, the most powerful woman in the whole country, being a black woman. 

Or perhaps if the characters start discussing the brutal colonization of India, then it would need to acknowledge the improbability of a dark-skinned woman marrying a white Viscount in Regency-Era England. In fact, introducing the realism of the ugly atrocities of people of color in that era would render the love stories of seasons 1 and 2 completely improbable. Because how many interracial marriages were really happening during this time period? There’s a reason most historical romances feature white lead characters. And in fact, Julia Quinn’s original books, the source material for the series, are one of those historical romances featuring white lead characters. 

The point is that the entire purpose of the choice to feature color-blind casting for Bridgerton is to ensure that the audience views this less as an accurate historical period drama and more as a fantastical adventure. One where race is irrelevant to love, passion, family, and community. A utopia of sorts, if you will. Is it highly improbable and saccharinely unrealistic – absolutely? But that’s what makes it so much fun. And don’t we all need a little fun, and unrealistic soapy goodness now and then? The real world, with all its weighty issues and darkness, will always be there when we need to “get back to reality.”

Oscars 2022 Recap – Best and Worst

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I almost felt like titling this post, “Best and Worst – And When I Say Worse, I mean THE ABSOLUTE WORST .”  But I thought that might be a tad too wordy. I honestly wasn’t sure I would even do this recap. Because the truth is, even before that moment, I wasn’t exactly jumping off of my couch in excitement for this year’s Oscar ceremony. 

Most of it was merely serviceable. However, underneath all the messiness and controversy, some bright and poignant moments emerged that were worth celebrating. So without further ado, here is my list of the best and worst of the 2022 Oscars.

BEST

  • CODA Makes History – Thirty-five years after Marlee Matlin made history as the first deaf actor to win the Lead Actress Oscar, a film featuring a cast of mostly deaf actors, including Matlin, won Best Picture. CODA’s win was historic for many reasons, including being the first film released by a streaming platform to win Best Picture. How angry do we think the execs at Netflix were – especially since their film, The Power of the Dog started the season as the heavy favorite? Pettiness aside, CODA’s win was a beautiful moment for diversity.

  • Points for Diversity – Speaking of diversity, there was much to celebrate among the night’s winners. Along with CODA’s history-making win, for the first time, we had back-to-back women winners in the Best Director category, as well as Questlove’s win for his brilliant documentary about the amazing, yet little-known 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival.

  • The Hosts – I’ve certainly seen better, and there were definitely a few cringe-worthy moments (more on that below). However, for the most part, the trio of hosts held their own. And kudos to Amy Schumer, who I am rarely ever a fan of, for brilliantly steering the ship, in the aftermath of that very awkward moment.

  • The Reunions – My absolute favorite part of the night. In a brilliant show of what the Oscars should be about – a celebration of films and filmmaking, the producers reunited cast members of some of the most classic films. Such as, The Godfather, Pulp Fiction, and Juno. It was particularly heartwarming to see Rosie Perez, Woody Harrelson, and Wesley Snipes, for White Men Can’t Jump.

  • The Speeches – Award speeches can often vacillate between awkward and painfully cringe-worthy. However, every once in a while, there are a few memorable and heartfelt moments. Much of this year’s speeches fell in the latter category. And it was beautiful to see. From Troy Kotsur’s “grab the tissues” moment to Ariana DeBose’s empowering speech.

WORST

  • That Regina Hall Bit – I cannot believe how no one – Regina’s team, the show’s producers, or even a crew member – recognized how awkward and frankly, offensive it was to have her grope Josh Brolin and Jason Momoa as part of a comedic bit. Did no one realize the issue here? That in a post-MeToo era, many would point out the double standard of it not being okay if a male host had groped two female presenters as Hall did. The joke started okay but quickly devolved into an uncomfortable, cringe-worthy mess.

  • In Memoriam – I don’t get it. It cannot be so hard to put together a video montage of performers who have passed away. And yet, the Oscars manage to screw this up almost every year. The reason, of course, is because rather than keeping the focus on the individuals who’ve passed away, the producers are always trying to “jazz it up.” What in the Technicolor, acid-trippy hell was that mess on Sunday night? As a palate cleanser, I direct you to this year’s SAG Awards In Memoriam to see how it should be done.

  • We Don’t Talk About Bruno Performance – Yeah, yeah, yeah…everyone’s obsessed with the song. It’s all many can talk about (pun intended). Except it wasn’t nominated, which means we didn’t need to see it on Sunday night. Okay, I didn’t. Especially after eight categories were cut from the live show, ostensibly for “time.” But apparently, there was enough time to randomly shove in this performance with an even more random appearance by Megan Thee Stallion.

  • Edited Awards – In a ceremony that’s supposed to be about the celebration of film and filmmaking, the nominees for eight categories were essentially told theirs wasn’t important enough for the live show. Once again, this was all to keep the ceremony within the time limit. And yet, this year’s ceremony went even longer than last year’s. And in the end, they awkwardly shoved the categories into the live broadcast, to give the impression that it was happening live. There was no point in this. And let’s not have a repeat of it next year. These filmmakers deserved to have their moments be more than an afterthought, so we can randomly see DJ Khaled and once again, hear how we should not talk about Bruno.

  • Most of the Fashion – It’s great to have red carpet fashions back. It’d have been much nicer if so much of it wasn’t it so god awful. There were some decent moments – Zendaya, Regina Hall, the young actresses from King Richard, and Nicole Kidman. But overall, the looks ranged from meh to trying way too hard (looking at you, Kristen Stewart and Timothee Chalamet).

Yes, I did not include that moment. Because frankly, it has sucked up far too much airtime and attention from so many of the performers who deserved a better night than the shit show that the awards became because of one man’s ego and narcissism. So I am not giving it any more time and energy. After all, what is there to say other than it was a dick move and should not have happened – PERIOD.

So here’s to the end of another Oscar season. I look forward to next year’s where hopefully I enjoy far more of the films than I did this year. And that the show gets more right than wrong. Cheers!

2022 Academy Awards Predictions

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It’s officially Oscar weekend. The red carpet has been rolled out and after a year of a scaled-down, a mix of in-person and video attendance looks like the regular Oscar ceremony is back on. And yet, I must admit that this is the first Oscar ceremony in a while that I’m mostly “meh” about.

It may be a combination of things. One, my not loving or being particularly excited about any of the nominated films I saw. Two, not exactly being too eager to watch the ones I haven’t. And three, just the feeling that despite things seemingly getting back to “normal,” this award season still felt subdued and lacked the energy and excitement of previous years.

Whatever the case may be, I’ll still watch, of course, but I doubt I’ll be jumping up in my seat in excitement for any part of the night. That said, there are still some predictions to be made. Most of the categories this year seem well-sewn up, with a few exceptions that offer the possibility of an upset on Sunday night. As usual, I’m going to give my prediction on who and what will likely win. But also, who and what might win, in case the voters decide to shake things up.

BEST PICTURE

  • Belfast
  • CODA
  • Don’t Look Up
  • Drive My Car
  • Dune
  • King Richard
  • Licorice Pizza
  • Nightmare Alley
  • The Power of the Dog
  • West Side Story

Will Win: A few months ago, when award season kicked into high gear, this category seemed like a slam dunk for The Power of the Dog. However, a late-season surge from CODA suddenly put that inevitability into question. Particularly, the big upset by CODA at the Producers’ Guild of America (PGA). PGA, as many know, very regularly successfully predicts the eventual Best Picture winner.  I don’t see it this year. Call me stubborn, but I’m sticking to the early season favorite, and predicting The Power of the Dog will emerge victoriously.

Could Win: Well CODA, of course, for all the reasons I outlined above.

BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

  • Will Smith – King Richard
  • Andrew Garfield – Tick, Tick…Boom
  • Javier Bardem – Being the Ricardos
  • Benedict Cumberbatch – The Power of the Dog
  • Denzel Washington – The Tragedy of Macbeth

Will Win: Despite some very messy and awkward months last year where for some odd reason, Will Smith and wife Jada Pinkett Smith wanted all of us to know how disastrous their marriage is, it didn’t stop his momentum for King Richard. Messiness aside, Will Smith has certainly had a long and fulfilling career, showing many facets of his talent. While I’m no huge fan, I can’t say his win this Sunday night, should it happen, will be unearned.

Could Win: It’s hard to imagine an upset here as Will Smith has dominated this award season. And yes, I know what you’re thinking, “remember last year, when everyone thought Chadwick Boseman would win.” And yes, that’s true but remember how Chadwick lost the BAFTA award to eventual winner Anthony Hopkins? Something that did not happen this year with Will Smith. So yeah, this one is a slam dunk this year. If, by some slim possibility an upset happens, I’d say Benedict Cumberbatch will be the likely spoiler.

BEST ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE

  • Nicole Kidman – Being the Ricardos
  • Jessica Chastain – The Eyes of Tammy Faye
  • Kristen Stewart – Spencer
  • Olivia Colman – The Lost Daughter
  • Penelope Cruz – Parallel Mothers

Will Win: Early predictors suggested that Nicole Kidman would be adding a second Oscar to her already impressive awards collection. However, the tides have significantly changed, and this is looking likely to be a big night for Jessica Chastain for her bold and sincere performance of the late Tammy Faye Baker. Let’s face it, we know how Academy voters love a real-life transformation performance.

Could Win: Sticking to the fact that Academy voters love portrayals of real-life people, if there is an upset on Sunday night, it’s likely to go to Kidman. Although, how insane would it be if Kristen Stewart pulls off the “holy shit, did that just happen” upset. Yeah, let’s not even joke about such a crazy possibility.

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

  • Ciarán Hinds – Belfast
  • Troy Kotsur – CODA
  • Jesse Plemons – The Power of the Dog
  • J.K. Simmons – Being the Ricardos
  • Kodi Smit-McPhee – The Power of the Dog

Will Win: Like Best Picture and Best Actress, early-season predictors suggested one thing.  However, recent weeks have proven something else. A few months ago, I would have said this was a lock for Kodi Smit-McPhee for his stellar performance in The Power of the Dog. However, all the momentum heading into Sunday night is with Troy Kotsur. The BAFTA win was a big one, all but solidifying that this is his to lose.

Could Win: Obviously, it’s Kodi Smit-McPhee who started the season with a lot of momentum. Unfortunately, he may be hurt not only by Kotsur’s late-season surge, but also the potential for splitting of votes between him and his Power of the Dog co-star, Jesse Plemons. But if there is a possibility of an upset, it’s going to be Smit-McPhee.

BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

  • Jessie Buckley – The Lost Daughter
  • Ariana DeBose – West Side Story
  • Judi Dench – Belfast
  • Kirsten Dunst – The Power of the Dog
  • Aunjanue Ellis – King Ricard

Will Win: Another one of the slam dunk categories, as DeBose has won everything this award season. Kudos to her for taking an iconic part that won the original actress a Supporting Actress Oscar and making it her own.

Could Win: It’s hard to imagine an upset here, since as noted, DeBose has cleaned up all season. That said, the Supporting categories are where some of Oscar’s greatest upsets have taken place. If I had to pick a potential spoiler, it’d be Kirsten Dunst. She’s an actress that’s been in the industry for a very long time and in some instances, been underrated. Her performance in The Power of the Dog was heartbreaking and in some ways, a revelation.

BEST DIRECTOR

  • Kenneth Branagh – Belfast
  • Ryusuke Hamaguchibi – Drive My Car
  • Paul Thomas Anderson – Licorice Pizza
  • Jane Campion – The Power of the Dog
  • Steven Spielberg – West Side Story

Will Win: This is a lock for Jane Campion, and deservedly so. Let’s just hope this time she prepares a speech so we’re spared a repeat of that embarrassing shit show she delivered at the Critic’s Choice Awards.

Could Win: Doubtful there will be an upset in this category. However, if Academy voters decide to keep the “old boys’ club” theme going, I guess Steven Spielberg can randomly win for his vanity project. But I doubt it.

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

  • Belfast
  • Don’t Look Up
  • King Richard
  • Licorice Pizza
  • The Worst Person in the World

Will Win: This is a tough one. Conventional wisdom says Belfast is the likely winner – having won the Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice. However, it lost the BAFTA to Licorice Pizza and we know how much the British Academy loves Kenneth Branagh, so that was a pretty big upset. And there’s the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA), always doing their own thing, where Don’t Look Up won. So which one takes the big prize Sunday night? I’m going to go with gut on this one and say Belfast.

Could Win: Well considering how topsy-turvy the category has been, I’d say just about all of the other nominees could win. But if Belfast doesn’t, look to Don’t Look Up or Licorice Pizza to be the likely winner.

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

  • CODA
  • Drive My Car
  • Dune
  • The Lost Daughter
  • The Power of the Dog

Will Win: Much less chaotic than Original Screenplay, CODA seems the likely favorite in this category and I’m sticking with that prediction.

Could Win: Much like Best Picture, this category is likely to come down to two films – CODA or The Power of the Dog. So if the former does not win, look to Campion to add to her collection. Interestingly, The Power of the Dog was not nominated for a WGA.

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

  • Encanto
  • Flee
  • Luca
  • The Mitchells vs. The Machines
  • Raya and the Last Dragon

Will Win: Seems like an obvious win for Encanto, one of the most buzzed-about films of the year, animated and otherwise. However, it’s also hard to ignore an animated film that shows up in other major categories, such as Best International Film and Best Documentary. I am, of course, talking about the history-making Flee. That said, I think in the end voters will swing Encanto’s way

Could Win: Most pundits predict The Mitchells vs. The Machines as the possible spoiler here. I don’t agree. Sticking to my comments above, I think Flee’s the likely spoiler here.

BEST INTERNATIONAL FILM

  • Drive My Car
  • Flee
  • The Hand of God
  • Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom
  • The Worst Person in the World

Will Win: The last few years have proven that it’s silly to bet against an international film that also shows up in the Best Picture category. Think Roma and Parasite. And that means this is likely a lock for Drive My Car. It also helps that it’s all but swept award season.

Could Win: There are two likely spoilers here – The Worst Person in the World and Flee. It’s unlikely but certainly possible.

BEST EDITING

  • Don’t Look Up
  • Dune
  • King Richard
  • The Power of the Dog
  • Tick, Tick…Boom

Will Win: This year’s editing category is a battle between two very different films – the big-budget, visually stunning Dune, and the intimate, heartfelt, King Richard. Since I believe much of the love for Dune will be showcased in the more technical categories, I’m going to say it’s the likely winner here. It’s a film that moviegoers and I suspect academy voters as well, loved looking at.

Could Win: As noted above, this is a two-way race. If voters swing away from Dune, look to King Richard to take the prize.

BEST ORIGINAL SONG

  • Be Alive – King Richard
  • Dos Oruguitas – Encanto
  • Down to Joy – Belfast
  • No Time to Die – No Time to Die
  • Somehow You Do – Four Good Days

Will Win: Considering Billie Eilish has swept all the major precursor award shows and it’s been a while since a Bond song has lost this category, I’d say this one is a done deal.

Could Win: If there is an upset, unlikely as it may be, much as I know the Beyhive is hoping desperately for Queen Bey to get her Oscar, it’s more than likely we will see Lin Manuel Miranda become an EGOT winner.

Oscar Nominations 2022 – The Surprises, The Not-So Surprising and The Meh

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The nominees for this year’s Academy Awards were officially announced this week (see the full list here). And overall, it turned out much like many expected, with a few notable exceptions. Oh btw, if you’re feeling a bit like this award season has seemed all but nonexistent, it’s not just you.

Typically, by this point of the year, the Golden Globes, with all its fun and excitement, would have already taken place. And many, in the last decades have of course, considered the Globes the official start of Awards Season. Well, the Globes did happen last month. However, as the adage goes, “if a tree falls in the forest and no one hears it, does it make a sound?”

Despite’s NBC’s announcement last year that it would not air the ceremony and a string of controversy surrounding the organization, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) stubbornly decided to hand out awards anyway. Even if it meant doing so during an untelevised and unattended ceremony.

So here we are – Oscar nominations announced, yet it still feels like we, or well I am, are still waiting for Award Season to kick into high gear. A great place to start, I guess, is to break down this week’s announcement. Keep reading for my overall impressions of this year’s Oscar nominees.

  • The Unsurprising – As expected, The Power of the Dog had a strong showing, leading all other films with a total of 12 nominations. Other unsurprising strong showings were Dune, with ten nominations, Belfast with seven nominations, and King Richard with six nominations.

  • The Surprises – It appears that the members of the Academy were not feeling the love for House of Gucci. Not even Lady Gaga, who many considered a sure thing for the Best Actress category, received a nomination. However, to many surprise, who did receive a Lead Actress nomination, was Kristen Stewart for her role in the critically divisive Spencer. After missing out on a Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG) and BAFTA Awards nomination, many predicted that Stewart’s chances had fizzled. I wasn’t so sure. For whatever reason, call it a gut feeling, I knew she’d be nominated. No comment on what I think about her acting in general – the less said on that, the better.

  • The “I Didn’t See This Coming” – Contrary to popular opinion, most of this year’s snubs weren’t that surprising to me. However, there were a few names announced that were a surprise. Most notably, J.K. Simmons for Being the Ricardos and maybe even Javier Bardem, as well. But Simmons was the bigger surprise, as he’s not shown up for any of the big precursor awards. That said, J.K. Simmons is a previous winner, as is Bardem. And the Academy does sometimes tend to lean toward previous winners. I would also throw in Denis Villeneuve’s losing out on a Best Director nod, only because it’s clear the voters loved Dune.

  • The Meh – FYI, these nominees are meh to me. I accept that some may feel differently. Full disclosure, I’m not a fan of classic remakes, unless it adds something fresh and distinctive. For example, yes, A Star is Born was the fourth version of that film. But each film had unique characters and backstories of said characters. All this to say that I was underwhelmed by West Side Story and found its nominations for Best Picture and Best Director unnecessary. Frankly, I think Villeneuve would have been a more appealing addition to the category than Steven Spielberg. And just to be clear, I wholeheartedly acknowledge Spielberg’s brilliance as a director. However, I do not believe this remake of West Side Story, lovely as it was, added much to the greater filmmaking zeitgeist.

So who will win? Eh, who knows? As is often the case, the precursors will tell the tale. Having only the various critics’ awards to go on, and maybe the Globes, it’s looking like Netflix may finally nab the Best Picture crown with The Power of the Dog. But don’t sleep on Drive My Car, the surprise international film entry for both Best Director and Best Picture. We all saw what happened with Parasite a few years ago.

The Return of Adele – Breaking Down Chapter 30

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The queen of the charts is back. Six years after the release of her Grammy-winning 25, where she reflected on and in some cases longed for her pre-fame days; Adele is back with her fourth studio album, 30.

A lot has happened in the singer’s personal life, as many are aware, since the release of 25. Notably, the breakup of her marriage. There was also a weight loss journey that had some fans happy for her, while others felt betrayed.

Adele brilliantly addressed the latter in her CBS Special interview with Oprah Winfrey, noting that it’s not her job to validate people’s feelings about their bodies. I concur. However, her weight loss isn’t a topic on 30, which is all about the emotional journey she undertakes throughout the subsequent breakdown of her marriage.

It’s raw, guttural, painful, and honest. What it isn’t, especially sonically, is a newer version of 21 or 25. So if that’s what you expected when you started listening to the album, chances are, you may have felt a little disappointed.

However, while 30 may not boast the same sleek, ear-worm pop goodness of 21, or even 25, it still delivers the same achingly beautiful honesty, told with Adele’s ever impeccable vocals.

When I first began working on this review, I vacillated between writing a summary, versus a song by song breakdown. I decided to do a song-by-song review, but then the perfectionist in me immediately started obsessing about having the perfect words to express my feelings.

However, I realized that in the spirit of the album’s honesty, the best approach would be to not overthink and go with my first impressions. So read on for my stream of consciousness, slightly rambling, initial impressions of each song.

  • Strangers by Nature – It’s fitting that the first two lines of this track are, “I’ll be taking flowers to the cemetery of my heart/For all my lovers in the present and the dark”. There is a dirge-like quality to the song’s overall sound. It also brings to mind a bit of the 40s-50s classic sound.
  • Easy on Me – The album’s lead single and possibly, most radio-friendly. It’s a straightforward lament of someone seeking if not forgiveness, understanding, and empathy for making what may be considered a selfish choice.
  • My Little Love – Judging by social media chatter, this appears to be many fans’ favorite song on the album. Essentially a love letter and apology to her son Angelo for leaving his father and ultimately breaking up their family, what is particularly interesting about this song is that sonically it has a very chill vibe. Yet lyrically, it’s one of the saddest and darkest songs on the album.
  • Cry Your Heart Out – Haven’t we all been there? Who hasn’t needed a good cry or two or three (you get the point) once in a while? Like the above, I love that despite lyrically being emotionally heavy, sonically there is an easy, almost breezy vibe to the song.
  • Oh My God – Love everything about this number. The vibe, production, and of course, the adage that being bad is always so much more fun.
  • Can I Get It – Sonically, this gives me 90s pop/rock tees, especially the whistling interlude. The first word that comes to mind is simply fun.
  • I Drink Wine – Possibly my favorite track. I love the soulful sound, and while not a wine drinker myself (not much of a drinker at all), I connected so strongly with this number. Aren’t we all on a journey of complete self-acceptance and self-love?
  • All Night Parking (with Erroll Garner) – Love this one. It gives me early ‘00s Jill Scott and Erykah Badu vibes.
  • Woman Like Me – I like this number lyrically but not sonically. It drifts a little to the sleepy side with the one chord progression throughout.
  • Hold On – I call this one, “Adele lays her broken heart out raw and unfiltered for all the world to see.” You’re made of ice if the soaring refrain at the end to hold on, doesn’t get you right in the gut.
  • To Be Loved – And this is Adele laying out her vulnerable truth – for better or worse. There is a slightly old-school Whitney Houston-like sound to the production. That concluding breakdown, begging for understanding from her audience (theoretically her ex-husband and us, the listener), is everything.
  • Love Is a Game – Probably one of the most depressingly cynical views of love. But I guess a divorce will do that to you.

In conclusion, no, this album will not give you the radio-friendly pop sounds of 21 or 25. But it is, in many ways, Adele’s most heartbreakingly honest and mature album.

8 New Fall Shows I’m Excited About

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September represents many things – the sapphire birthstone, the end of Virgo season, and the start of Libra season, to name a few. However, pop culture lovers know what truly makes September special is that it marks the official start of the fall television season. That means the return of old favorites and more importantly, the release of potential new favorites.

With streaming services continuing to take over the world, the total amount of new releases get increasingly higher every year. Unless you’re planning to do nothing but watch television shows all day, it’s hard to view them all. So I’ve put together a list of the top eight shows that I’m personally most looking forward to this fall season.

My criteria for picking these shows are simple – whether or not the premise sounds appealing. Admittedly this approach hasn’t always worked out, as there’ve been many shows with a compelling premise, but for any number of reasons – poor casting, writing, etc. it simply doesn’t work. However, I have faith in the following eight.

  • Impeachment: American Crime Story – Ryan Murphy and company are back with the third installment of the critically and commercially acclaimed limited series. This season will delve into arguably one of the biggest scandals in U.S. politics that ultimately led to the impeachment of President Bill Clinton. Back then, the scandal was treated as merely a punch line for late-night shows. However, it will be interesting to view it from a current socially aware lens – the abuse of power by a man of influence over a young woman, the sexist commentary of the time, the misogyny, etc. I have a love-hate affair with Ryan Murphy’s works as I find he’s good at coming up with creative concepts. However, the follow-through isn’t always as strong. However, thus far, both seasons of American Crime Story – The People vs. O.J. Simpson and The Assassination of Gianni Versace, have been brilliantly executed. So I’m optimistic about this one. (Currently airing on FX)

  • Scenes from a Marriage – After its lead actors – Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac put on quite the show on the Venice Film Festival red carpet, it’s only natural I find out if the real thing matches all the hype. Plus the show’s premise is right up my alley. I’m a sucker for a well-written, brilliantly acted relationship-driven drama. It’s one of the reasons I loved The Affair before it went off the rails in the later seasons. Also, Scenes from a Marriage having the talents of Hagai Levi, creator of In Treatment, is a huge plus. (Currently airing on HBO)

  • The Premise – Can one make solemn and complex issues, such as gun violence and police brutality, funny? Well, BJ Novak and a large cast of well-known actors are certainly going to try in this anthology series that tackles many social issues through a comedic lens. As a fan of Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle’s brand of comedy that often blurs the line of humor and social commentary, I am intrigued by this premise (no pun intended). (Currently airing on Hulu)

  • Midnight Mass – Similar to American Crime Story, this is the third installment in Netflix/Mike Flanagan scary shows partnership. Coming on the heels of The Haunting of Hill House (incredible) and The Haunting of Bly Manor (not as incredible but still pretty good), Midnight Mass will explore the scary religious road. There’s a creepy, isolated island, a small town that’s not exactly as it seems, and a mysterious priest all rolled into one. Oh hell yeah, I’m in. (Premieres September 24 on Netflix)

  • Dopesick – You’ve probably heard about or seen reference to the “opioid crisis.” It’s an issue that’s come to the forefront in the last few years. According to the CDC, the crisis has negatively impacted the U.S.’s economy to the tune of $78.5 billion. Naturally, it has found its way into the entertainment landscape. Adapted from a novel by Beth Macy, Dopesick seeks to explore the crisis through various angles, using a multi-narrative perspective that includes a local doctor, attorneys representing the big pharmaceutical companies, addicts affected by the drugs, and more. Boasting an impressive cast that includes Michael Keaton, this doesn’t sound like light fare. However, it’s a necessary story to tell. (Premieres October 13 on Hulu)

  • I Know What You Did Last Summer – The film that made Jennifer Love Hewitt a 90s teen queen and featured a pre-married Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr., as well as a young Ryan Phillippe. You can’t call yourself a 90s teen if you didn’t see this film. Based on the 1970s book by one of the original queens of YA Mystery/Thriller, Lois Duncan, the film has become a cult classic for a reason. And Amazon Prime is looking to make magic once again, this time turning the classic novel into a series. Not much is known about the series, other than Amazon’s claim that it will be a “new take on the classic film” and much of the cast is unknown. But I’m intrigued and willing to give it a few episodes trial run. (Premieres October 15 on Amazon)

  • Queens – Based on the trailer, this looks like it will be fun. And we can always use a little light, fun fare in our lives. Plus, if you’re a millennial like me who grew up on the sounds of the late 90s, early 00s girl groups (think TLC and Destiny’s Child), then this hits a sweet spot. My only concern about this show is that it’s airing on ABC. I feel like this may be one of these shows that may take a while to gain an audience.  Unfortunately, major cable networks like ABC aren’t always great at allowing shows time to gain an audience. Of course, it could have been on Netflix where even if many watched it, it’d still be canceled because Netflix’s random like that. (Premieres October 19 on ABC)

  • Yellowjackets – Lord of the Flies meets Lost. If neither of these is your thing, you might want to stop reading now. Featuring an impressive cast of actresses that includes Juliette Lewis and Christina Ricci, the Showtime drama will follow a group of women who survived a plane crash while in high school. Flashing between the past and present, from the trailer, it’s obvious some crazy shit happened after the plane crash. It looks all dark, twisted, and mysterious. (Premieres November 14 on Showtime)