The nominees for this year’s Oscars were released two weeks ago, and just like that the award show season was upon us. It’s that magical time when we recognize some of the best films, actors, actresses and directors of the past year.
There were obvious picks (just give Leo that damn thing) and surprises such as, Sylvester Stallone receiving a nod for Best Supporting Actor in “Creed.” Per usual, there wasn’t a shortage of snubs. Point in case: How can “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” not be recognized in any categories?
The Academy Awards is easily the ringleader of award shows, and if we learned anything from history and literature, ringleaders are usually bullies. This year was no exception, as many of the snubs had a common overarching theme. For the second year in a row, people of color were absent from Oscar eligibility. Quality films like “Creed,” “Straight Outta Compton,” “Beast of No Nation” and “Ex Machina” were not accounted for in any category.
The majority of Oscar voters are white adults at an average age of 60. That doesn’t sound like a very open-minded voting group to me. Some high profile actors and celebrities have called for action and are planning to boycott the event to show their dissatisfaction.
The fact that people are doing more than complaining and actually acting this year is spectacular. However, this course of action might not be the right one. Whoopi Goldberg said, “The thing to boycott isn’t the Oscars, but the movies lacking representation.”
However, some good has come from all of this talk, and it’s the actual action following the attention. The Academy made a statement saying they will overhaul the way nominees are chosen from the recruiting process, requirements, governing structure and more. This is some positive proof backing up the common expression, “If you make enough noise people will listen.”
Due to the threat of boycott, sudden and open change occurred quickly, but the industry still has a long haul to a diverse cinematic experience.
