Oscars Best Picture Race

Two very different films, 'Anora' and 'Conclave,' are in a close race for the Best Picture at the Oscars. The awards season has been tumultuous, with wildfires and scandals. 'Anora' is a highly acclaimed indie film, while 'Conclave' is a big-studio drama. Adrien Brody and Timothee Chalamet are strong contenders for Best Actor. Mikey Madison and Demi Moore are competing for Best Actress. The Oscars ceremony will honor firefighters and feature performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.

Oscars Audience Size and Relevance in Hollywood

The 97th Academy Awards are approaching, and concerns arise about potential low viewership due to the nomination of lesser-known films and progressive messages in a right-leaning climate. Efforts are being made to boost viewership, such as marketing strategies and the addition of Conan O'Brien as host. The Oscars have historically seen higher viewership with popular film nominations, but this year's nominees have lower ticket sales. Politics could also impact viewership, as many nominated films carry progressive themes that may not resonate with all audiences.

Oscar nominations and voting preferences

Anonymous member of the Academy's short films branch shares his picks for various Oscar categories, highlighting films like 'The Substance,' 'The Wild Robot,' and 'No Other Land.' He praises the boldness of 'The Substance' and the emotional impact of 'No Other Land.'

2025 Sundance Film Festival and Political Climate

The 2025 Sundance Film Festival is less politically charged compared to previous years, with fewer anti-Trump demonstrations and speeches. Publicists are discouraging political questions, and celebrities are less eager to engage in political commentary. The films at the festival still have political undertones but are not as overtly political as in the past.

Underperforming Films at the Oscars Dealing with Sex

Several underperforming films at the Oscars dealt with sex, leading to disappointments in nomination outcomes. The Academy seems to value violence over sex in film content.

97th Academy Awards Nominations Announcement

The 97th Academy Awards nominations were announced with some surprises and snubs. Some notable omissions include Denzel Washington, Nicole Kidman, and Angelina Jolie, while Felicity Jones and Sebastian Stan were among the surprises. The Oscars will still take place on March 2, honoring both L.A. and first responders.

Death of Jeff Baena

Screenwriter and director Jeff Baena has died at the age of 47. His death was confirmed as suicide by the L.A. County Coroner’s Office. Baena was known for offbeat comedies like “The Little Hours” and “Life After Beth,” and was married to actress Aubrey Plaza. He was also involved in projects like “Spin Me Round,” “Joshy,” “Horse Girl,” and “I Heart Huckabees.”

Higher Ground, Barack and Michelle Obama's production company

Barack and Michelle Obama's production company, Higher Ground, is producing well-reviewed, socially conscious films and TV shows, distinguishing itself from the less successful Archewell Productions. Although initially focused on serious and worthy content, Higher Ground is now exploring more diverse and unexpected projects, including comedy and fantasy genres.

Venice Film Festival 2024

The Venice Film Festival opens with a star-studded lineup including Tim Burton's 'Beetlejuice' sequel and other high-profile films. Lady Gaga, George Clooney, and Daniel Craig are among the celebrities attending. The festival features a mix of Hollywood blockbusters and independent films, with notable entries such as 'Joker: Folie a Deux' and 'Queer'.

2024 Venice International Film Festival Lineup

The 2024 Venice International Film Festival will feature world premieres of films by renowned directors such as Pedro Almodovar, Luca Guadagnino, and Alfonso Cuaron. Other notable films in the lineup include Todd Phillips' "Joker: Folie a Deux" and Pablo Larrain's film about opera singer Maria Callas.

Donald Sutherland's Career and Legacy

Donald Sutherland, a versatile actor known for his performances in a wide range of films, has passed away at the age of 88 after a long illness. His career spanned six decades and included iconic roles in movies such as M*A*S*H, Ordinary People, and The Hunger Games. Sutherland was recognized with an honorary Oscar in 2017 for his contributions to the film industry.

77th Cannes Film Festival

The 77th Cannes Film Festival concludes with politically charged films, including 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' by Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof. Other favorites include 'Emilia Perez', 'Anora', and 'The Substance'.

77th Cannes Film Festival Overview

The 77th Cannes Film Festival is set to be a dramatic event with a lineup full of intrigue and question marks. The festival will address ongoing issues like the war in Ukraine, the rise of artificial intelligence, and the #MeToo movement. Notable films and personalities, such as “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” Francis Ford Coppola, and Judith Godrèche, will be featured.

Roger Corman's Career and Legacy

Roger Corman, director and producer of numerous films, including 1960's Little Shop of Horrors, has passed away at the age of 98. In this 2013 interview, he reflects on his prolific career and the state of contemporary horror cinema.

Roger Corman - Legendary Hollywood Producer and Director

Roger Corman, the 'King of the B's,' has passed away at the age of 98. He was a legendary producer and director who influenced the careers of many Hollywood icons.

Molly Ringwald criticizes lack of diversity in John Hughes films

Actress Molly Ringwald criticized the lack of diversity in the John Hughes films that made her famous during an award acceptance speech at the Miami Film Festival.

The 77th Cannes Film Festival Lineup

The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival will feature iconic filmmakers and high-profile films, with a diverse lineup of movies from around the world. The festival will also expand to a new venue, the Palm Beach, and continue to attract global industry professionals.

Challenges to LGBTQ2+ Rights Worldwide

Elliot Page, formerly Ellen Page, expressed concerns about the revocation of LGBTQ2+ rights worldwide during an appearance at the Juno Awards. Page highlighted the work of the Tegan and Sara Foundation in supporting trans and queer youth. Sara Quin criticized Alberta for proposing restrictions on healthcare for transgender youth. Page, who came out as transgender in 2020, argued that LGBTQ2+-themed films should not be considered niche.

Oscar-nominated Films Available for Streaming

Overview of Oscar-nominated films available for streaming on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Apple TV+, including details about 'Oppenheimer,' 'Barbie,' 'Poor Things,' and more.