The following content is adapted from “In Review by David Ehrlich,” a biweekly newsletter that shares film reviews and insights about the latest happenings in the movie world.
The big day is almost here!
Awards season feels endless. While the world outside changes dramatically, Hollywood still debates which “Emilia Pérez” song Diane Warren will lose to. But at least we’ll have clarity soon.
The votes are in, campaigns have been intense, and predictions have been tossed around. Now, it’s all about handing out trophies and seeing Kieran Culkin’s choice of bracelets on the big night.
As a film critic, I often joke that the Oscars aren’t a big deal for me. Yet, I can’t resist sharing my thoughts on them. This week, I’ll dive into my picks for the Oscars across all major film categories.
Let’s jump in:
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Monica Barbaro (“A Complete Unknown”)
Ariana Grande (“Wicked”)
Felicity Jones (“The Brutalist”)
Isabella Rossellini (“Conclave”)
Zoe Saldaña (“Emilia Pérez”)
I admire Isabella Rossellini but, to be honest, she didn’t leave a strong impression in “Conclave.” Sure, she can deliver a fierce glare, but that’s not enough for me. This year’s competition is tough. Sadly, it’s as if the nominees were chosen by the same people who pick contenders for Best Original Song.
Ariana Grande was impressive but her role in “Wicked” feels more like a cameo. Zoe Saldaña consistently shines, but I think she has outperformed her role in “Emilia Pérez” on other occasions. Now, Monica Barbaro truly impressed me in “A Complete Unknown.” Her portrayal of Joan Baez is powerful. She sang beautifully, infused every scene with history, and didn’t let herself be overshadowed. Barbaro’s performance is one that stands out.
BEST MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
“A Different Man” (Mike Marino, David Presto, Crystal Jurado)
“Emilia Pérez” (Julia Floch Carbonel, Emmanuel Janvier, Jean-Christophe Spadaccini)
“Nosferatu” (David White, Traci Loader, Suzanne Stokes-Munton)
“The Substance” (Pierre-Olivier Persin, Stéphanie Guillon, Marilyne Scarselli)
“Wicked” (Frances Hannon, Laura Blount, Sarah Nuth)
This category is tricky for me, as I struggle to notice details like wigs! Still, “The Substance” caught my attention. It creatively uses makeup and hairstyling to tell its story. While the other films have merit, they can’t match the depth that “The Substance” brings with its character transformations. Its compelling visuals stick with you long after watching.
BEST INTERNATIONAL FEATURE
“I’m Still Here”
“The Girl with the Needle”
“Emilia Pérez”
“The Seed of the Sacred Fig”
“Flow”
I’m glad this category has gained importance over the years. It’s exciting to see international films being recognized, especially when some nominees also contend for Best Picture. This year, we have two standout films: a serious true story, “I’m Still Here,” and “Emilia Pérez,” an absurd soap opera. While one is a heartfelt narrative, the other seems more like a gimmick. My choice? “Flow.” It deserves to be the first animated film to win this award, a milestone that would be a refreshing change.
If you want to catch the full insights and more, check out the rest in “In Review by David Ehrlich.”
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