Best Picture Power Rankings. Plus: Is ‘Emilia Pérez’ Really a Front-Runner?
Nov 15, 2024
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Joanna Robinson, an awards season expert, and Katey Rich, the awards editor at The Ankler, dive into the current Best Picture race. They discuss the top 10 films vying for Oscar nominations, highlighting the mixed reception of 'Emilia Pérez.' The conversation touches on how recent political events might influence voter preferences and the themes of major contenders like 'Wicked.' They also analyze the impact of box office performance on nominations and the ever-changing dynamics of the competitive awards landscape.
The podcast explores the current uncertainty in the Best Picture race, highlighting the lack of clear frontrunners this season.
Discussion on 'Emilia Pérez' reveals its mixed critical reception and its potential impact on the Best Picture nominations.
The hosts connect the popularity of films in the awards circuit to recent political events, illustrating art's reflection of societal issues.
There is a focus on upcoming film adaptations like 'Wicked' and their potential success tied to audience expectations and recognition.
Deep dives
Introduction of a New Season
The podcast introduces a new season of exploration focused on the music scenes of 1980s and 1990s Britain. Iconic movements such as Madchester, Baggy, Shoegaze, and Britpop are highlighted. The host, Yossi Solek, invites listeners to tune in weekly for episodes dedicated to these influential genres. The enthusiastic tone indicates a deep appreciation for the rich musical history being discussed.
Financial Sponsorships and Digital Tools
Bank of America sponsors the episode, illustrating the importance of financial decisions and the potential to achieve multiple goals simultaneously. The discussion emphasizes the bank's digital tools that assist customers in fulfilling their aspirations. This segment serves as a reminder that financial platforms can facilitate modern-day conveniences while helping individuals realize their dreams. It highlights the intersection of finance and everyday life in a relatable manner.
Pluto TV’s Free Streaming Content
The episode discusses Pluto TV as a service providing thousands of movies and shows for free, appealing to budget-conscious viewers. The conversation between hosts reflects the excitement of having access to classic films without any cost. This accessibility underscores the growing trend of free streaming services amid the rise of subscription-based platforms. It positions Pluto TV as an attractive option for audiences wanting diverse entertainment options.
Analyzing the Best Picture Race
A significant portion of the episode delves into the current dynamics of the Best Picture race, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding frontrunners. The hosts express confusion over which films are leading contenders, recalling past years with clearer favorites. They specifically note the impact of recent political events on audience sentiment and award choices. This analysis touches on how external circumstances can shape the narratives surrounding awards season.
Connections Between Film and Elections
The conversation shifts to explore how past elections affect the popularity of certain films within the awards circuit. Reflecting on the 2016 Oscars, the hosts discuss the unexpected success of 'Moonlight' and how it related to the political climate. The potential for this year’s Best Picture winner to respond to current societal issues is posited, sparking a broader discussion on art reflecting life and vice versa. This insight links the values and themes of cinematic stories to real-world events.
The Future of Movie Adaptations
As the discussion moves towards adaptations, the focus turns to upcoming films based on popular stage musicals. The hosts analyze the potential success of 'Wicked' in relation to its widespread recognition and fanbase. They compare the anticipated reception of 'Wicked' with that of other film adaptations, considering factors like box office success and audience appeal. This exploration questions whether these adaptations can capture the magic of their stage origins and find a place in awards discussions.
The Awards Race’s Impact on Cinema
The episode concludes with a reflection on how the Oscars influence the film industry and viewer expectations. The conversation indicates that award recognition often drives box office success and views, creating a cycle that commercializes art. The narrative suggests that filmmakers may tailor productions to align with award season standards, possibly at the expense of authenticity. This commentary highlights the ongoing tension between artistic integrity and commercial viability in cinema.
Sean is joined by Ringer-Verse host Joanna Robinson and The Ankler's awards editor Katey Rich to discuss the state of the Best Picture race. Amid this conversation, they go through the 10 films they think are running hottest to be nominated for the top award at the Oscars and compare their list to the last time Sean did said exercise (1:00). Then, they zero in on one of those front-runners, Jacques Audiard’s ‘Emilia Pérez,’ a challenging swing of a film that's received mixed reviews from critics and Letterboxd users alike since hitting the Netflix service (1:10:00).
