But the latest contender that might fare well in the technical categories, which are often dominated by big films, is Netflix’s top nominee this year: the German World War I epic All Quiet on the Western Front . It claims nine awards, tied with Irish dark comedy Banshee of Inisherin. Netflix’s “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” also looks like a contender for Best Animated Feature.
The awards will also have star power in musical performances. Fresh from performing at the Super Bowl, Rihanna will perform her Oscar-nominated song “Lift Me Up” from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. “This Is Life” from “Everything Everywhere All at Once” is performed by David Byrne and supporting actress nominee Stephanie Hsu with Son Lux. Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava will perform ‘Naatu Naatu’ from the Indian action film ‘RRR’. Lenny Kravitz will perform during the In Memoriam tribute.
Last year, Apple TV’s CODA became the first streaming movie to win Best Picture. But this year, nine out of 10 nominees for the best pictures were shown in cinemas. After the downturn in the movie business during the pandemic, movie viewing has recovered to about 67% of pre-pandemic levels. But it’s been a year of ups and downs, full of blockbusters and alarming lulls at the box office.
At the same time, the rush to streaming has faced new setbacks, as studios have questioned long-term profitability and reconsidered their release strategies. This year, ticket sales were high thanks to releases like “Creed III” and “Cocaine Bear.” But storm clouds remain on the horizon. The Screenwriters Guild and the major studios are set to begin contract talks on March 20, a battle looming that has much of the industry on edge over the possibility of a shutdown in film and television.
Meanwhile, the Oscars are trying to regain their position as the main prize. Last year’s telecast drew 16.6 million viewers, up 58% from the shortened 2021 edition and a record low of 10.5 million viewers.
Usually, the Best Actor and Best Actress awards are presented by the previous year’s acting winners. But this time it won’t be like that. Who will replace Smith in the recognition of the best female role – this is only one of the questions of the ceremony.
