There are a couple of categories at the Academy Awards that are historically messed up. One is the Foreign Film award. Without even going into the nomination process, and how much foreign language has to be spoken, think about the numbers. All those countries get one entry each; five get picked for the big show and contest. I wouldn't call it a good sample.
There are always fantastic films in there - and sometimes fantastic films win - like The Lives of Others. Every year I watch amazing films that never make it to the final five, though - like La Nana in 2009. Also, often a really odd film wins. Odd not because it's bad, but because it's not the best film.
When Departures (Japan) won in 2008, it was a shock. It was up against very strong films, particularly Waltz with Bashir. Bashir tears your heart out, and Departures borders on fluffy. There are some pseudo surprises, but it's pretty predictable. (FYI - it's about casketing - ritual preparation of the dead. This provides some bathroom humor and some silly scenes, gross scenes, etc.) I think the NYT said that this choice showed lack of courage on the part of the academy - or something like that. I agree. Departures is a good movie, but if you have limited time, try Waltz with Bashir (Israel), La Nana (Chile), White Ribbon (Germany), The Class (France).
No comments:
Post a Comment