I am officially declaring this to be “The Awards Season of the Short Title”. In fact a majority of the major contenders can actually be summed-up in one word. So don’t be surprised if this year’s Best Picture lineup is thin – and by that I mean thin in letter-count.
Bradley Cooper has two shots at a nomination: a starring role in the chef drama “Burnt”, and a supporting turn opposite Jennifer Lawrence and Robert De Niro in “Joy”. And the same goes for Cate Blanchett, who is being put-up for Best Actress contention in both the TV news drama “Truth” and the romance “Carol”.
But Blanchett will have some stiff competition: Emily Blunt leads the critically-acclaimed crime drama “Sicario”. Carey Mulligan is receiving great reviews for her performance in “Suffragette”. Saorise Ronan is also a contender with “Brooklyn”. And Brie Larson is building momentum for her work in the indie “Room”.
Entertainment biopic “Trumbo” features a star-studded cast of Bryan Cranston, Diane Lane, John Goodman, Elle Fanning and Helen Mirren. However, the “Ensemble of the Year” award may go to “Spotlight” thanks to a line-up of Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Liev Schreiber, John Slattery and Stanley Tucci.
A couple of Michaels – Caine and Fassbender – lead “Youth” and “Macbeth”, respectfully. Tom Hardy plays twins in the true crime story “Legend”. The already-controversial “Concussion” may feature a knockout performance from Will Smith. And let’s not leave-out a couple of wild card flicks with legendary characters returning to form: James Bond back for “Spectre” (which sounds awfully close to “Skyfall”) and Rocky Balboa ringside in “Creed”.
I’m making a fairly confident prediction: the title of the upcoming Amy Poehler/Tina Fey comedy – “Sisters” will not be heard on Oscar night, or any other time during Awards Seasons (even the ladies’ former hosting home: The Golden Globes).