PARK CITY, Utah (AP) — The Oscar nominations this year shocked many. With a lot of surprises and a few snubs, the buzz around the 97th Academy Awards is electric.
Recently, Angelina Jolie and Nicole Kidman looked like strong contenders for best actress. Meanwhile, the new film about Donald Trump, “The Apprentice,” seemed to have fallen flat, raising doubts about its chances. But the Academy thought otherwise. Let’s take a look at some unexpected nominations and notable omissions.
Surprise: Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan, “The Apprentice”
Despite its less-than-stellar reception, “The Apprentice” surprised everyone. Jeremy Strong earned acclaim for his role as Trump lawyer Roy Cohn, while Sebastian Stan got recognized for portraying Trump himself. Both secured nominations, although only Strong was nominated by the Screen Actors Guild.
Snub: Marianne Jean-Baptiste, “Hard Truths”
Many were puzzled by the lack of a nomination for Marianne Jean-Baptiste in “Hard Truths.” Her powerful performance as Pansy, a sharp-tongued London woman, was unforgettable. Instead, Fernanda Torres received the nod for her role in the film “I’m Still Here.”
Snub: Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl”
Pamela Anderson also faced disappointment. Although her performance in Gia Coppola’s “The Last Showgirl” garnered positive attention, including a SAG nomination, she ultimately missed out on an Oscar nomination.
Surprise: James Mangold, “A Complete Unknown”
James Mangold finally cracked the best director lineup with “A Complete Unknown.” His previous works have included hits like “Ford v Ferrari,” but he had never gotten an Oscar nomination until now. However, this achievement came at the expense of other notable directors like Edward Berger and Denis Villeneuve.
Snub: Daniel Craig, “Queer”
Daniel Craig’s role as an American expat in “Queer” was impressive, but it didn’t impress Oscar voters this year. His omission from the nominations has left many fans feeling disappointed.
Snub: Angelina Jolie, “Maria”
Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of opera legend Maria Callas seemed like a sure pick for a nomination, considering the success of past biopics by the same director, Pablo Larraín. However, she was left off the list, surprising many.
Snub: Nicole Kidman, “Babygirl”
In “Babygirl,” Nicole Kidman delivered a captivating performance as a married CEO engaged in an affair with an intern. Despite winning at the Venice Film Festival, Oscar gold proved elusive this time.
Surprise: Felicity Jones, “The Brutalist”
Felicity Jones made a late appearance in the nominations for “The Brutalist.” Though she hadn’t received much prior recognition, her role as Erzsébet Tóth was praised and finally earned her a nomination.
Snub: Danielle Deadwyler, “The Piano Lesson”
Danielle Deadwyler faced another snub this year, following a previous oversight for her role in “Till.” Her powerful performance in “The Piano Lesson” was expected to earn her recognition, but it didn’t happen.
Surprise: Monica Barbaro, “A Complete Unknown”
Monica Barbaro made waves in the chaotic supporting actress category for her role in “A Complete Unknown.” While she was among the less likely nominees, her performance stood out.
Snub: Selena Gomez, “Emilia Pérez”
Despite her talent, Selena Gomez missed out on a nomination for “Emilia Pérez.” Competing with co-star Zoë Saldaña may have impacted her chances, especially after Saldaña’s Golden Globe moment.
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