Lights, camera, action! The countdown to the Oscars is officially underway, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has just dropped some major news. Shortlists for 10 categories, including best original song, documentary feature, and international feature, have been unveiled, bringing us one step closer to finding out who will receive that coveted golden statuette.
In the documentary feature category, Mstyslav Chernov's gripping film '20 Days in Mariupol' has made the cut, impressively securing a spot on both the documentary and international feature shortlists. Representing Ukraine, this thought-provoking documentary has captivated audiences and critics alike.
But that's not all! Making their presence felt strongly on the shortlists are some prominent names in the industry. Greta Gerwig's powerful film 'Barbie,' Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated 'Oppenheimer,' and Martin Scorsese's intriguing 'Killers of the Flower Moon' have left their mark in multiple categories, including original score and sound. It may come as a surprise, however, that 'Oppenheimer' did not make the final 10 for visual effects, as previously reported.
As the international feature category narrows down, the competition is fiercer than ever. Films like Jonathan Glazer's 'The Zone of Interest,' Trần Anh Hùng’s 'The Taste of Things,' Lila Avilés’ 'Tótem,' and Aki Kaurismäki's 'Fallen Leaves' are vying for recognition, representing their respective countries with passion and creativity.
The battle for best original song is heating up as well, with 'I'm Just Ken' from the 'Barbie' power ballad leading the pack. But it faces strong competition from its very own film with Dua Lipa's 'Dance the Night' and Billie Eilish's hauntingly beautiful 'What Was I Made For?' Only two songs from a single movie can advance to the nomination stage, making this race even more intense.
The original score category is no exception to the excitement. Heavyweights like John Williams, Ludwig Göransson, Mica Levi, and the late Robbie Robertson are among the 15 finalists. It's thrilling to see these talented composers recognized for their incredible contributions to the world of cinema. And let's not forget the possibility of Joe Hisaishi earning his first Oscar nomination for his work on 'The Boy and the Heron.'
It's important to note that the shortlists are not determined by a single individual but rather by members in their respective categories. The specific selection process may vary among branches, ranging from committees to minimum viewing requirements. This ensures that the nominations are a true reflection of excellence in each field.
The final nominations for all categories will be announced on January 23, and movie lovers around the world are eagerly awaiting this momentous occasion. The 96th Oscars, hosted by the incomparable Jimmy Kimmel, will take place on March 10, broadcasted live on ABC from the iconic Dolby Theatre in the heart of Los Angeles. Get ready for a night filled with glamour, anticipation, and unforgettable moments that will keep you at the edge of your seat.
As we embark on this thrilling journey towards the Oscars, celebrate the magic of filmmaking and the incredible talents that bring these stories to life. Stay tuned for more updates, surprises, and predictions as Hollywood's biggest night draws near.
