Once is an event. Twice is a pattern.
Each of the past two Best Picture Oscar winners has featured John Goodman in a memorable supporting role. Many people are writing this week about the possible 2014 Oscar contenders and their lists are long and varied. But for me it’s not that difficult – since Goodman’s only in five films:
“Inside Llewyn Davis” – The Coen Brothers are back with this drama set in NYC during the folk-music scene of the 60’s. Three of their last four films have received Best Picture nominations. Early buzz is very good.
“Monsters University” – Goodman returns as the voice of Sully in this prequel to Pixar’s “Monsters Inc.”. No chance to win Best Picture (or probably a nomination), but Best Animated Feature is certainly a possibility.
“The Hangover Part III” – Hey, even John Goodman has to pay the bills.
“The Internship” – Comedy about two middle-aged friends (Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn) who become interns at Google. Could be funny, won’t be an awards contender.
“Monuments Men” – Here’s the winner: George Clooney directs this “based on a true story” drama about the daring rescue of priceless works of art from the Nazis during WWII. Clooney also stars, along with Matt Damon, Daniel Craig, Bill Murray, Cate Blanchett, Jean Dujardin AND Goodman. And it also has a coveted Dec. 18 release date. Start engraving the statue now.
So, a second straight Oscars show will end with Clooney on stage, this time in the role of Ben Affleck (star, director, producer). But the better streak will be Goodman’s, as he will make it three straight Best Picture wins.
Wonder what projects he’s looking at for 2014?