A promising awards season has left many big names in Hollywood on the sidelines, as films featuring A-list stars like George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Dwayne Johnson struggled to gain traction. While indie gems shone brightly and garnered critical acclaim, several high-budget projects underwhelmed both audiences and Academy voters alike. As we delve into the details of these unexpected misses, it becomes clear that even the most celebrated talent isn’t immune to the whims of cinematic fate.
The Rise of the Indie Darlings
Last year’s Oscars celebrated the underdogs, with smaller films like *The Brutalist* and *Emilia Pérez* capturing hearts and nominations. This year, however, the narrative shifted back towards blockbusters. Yet, despite the high anticipation, films led by Hollywood heavyweights appear to have faltered, leaving many to question why these megastars couldn’t secure a spot in the prestigious race.
Disappointment for Heavyweights
Consider *The Smashing Machine*, directed by Benny Safdie and featuring Dwayne Johnson in a transformative role. The film premiered to a standing ovation at Venice, buoyed by a star-studded cast that included Emily Blunt. However, its niche appeal and insider references alienated general audiences, resulting in a disappointing $21 million global box office. Critics largely dismissed it, favouring Josh Safdie’s more accessible *Marty Supreme*, which ultimately became a stronger contender.
Similarly, Luca Guadagnino’s *After the Hunt*, starring Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield, aimed to tackle heavy themes of #MeToo in an academic setting. Despite its provocative subject matter, it failed to captivate audiences, garnering a mere $10 million in global earnings. While Roberts earned a Golden Globe nod, her Oscar hopes evaporated alongside the film’s lacklustre reception.
High Hopes for Thrillers and Biopics
Kathryn Bigelow’s *A House of Dynamite* was initially deemed a surefire success, with its nuclear thriller premise and strong pedigree. Yet, the film’s New York premiere met with laughter and confusion, and Netflix’s promotional efforts waned, leading to a complete absence of nominations.
*Deliver Me from Nowhere*, a Bruce Springsteen biopic featuring Jeremy Allen White, presented another puzzling scenario. Released with significant hype, the film ultimately fell flat, earning just $22 million in the US. Critics were lukewarm, and the film failed to break new ground, leaving its awards prospects in tatters.
The Struggles of Established Directors
Noah Baumbach’s *Jay Kelly* was expected to elevate his Oscar chances, featuring an impressive cast anchored by George Clooney. However, the film’s mixed reviews and a focus on outdated sentimentality failed to resonate with the modern Academy, resulting in no nominations for Baumbach or his stars.
Even the much-anticipated sequel *Wicked: For Good* suffered a dramatic fall from grace. Following its predecessor’s success, the film was expected to repeat the feat, yet it was completely shut out of nominations. The decision to release both films in quick succession raised eyebrows, as did its staggering $250 million drop in global box office compared to the original.
Why it Matters
This year’s Oscar race serves as a stark reminder that star power alone cannot guarantee recognition or success. The Academy’s evolving tastes reflect a shift towards authenticity and originality, favouring stories that resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. As Hollywood grapples with this reality, it must reconsider its approach to filmmaking, blending star-studded casts with narratives that genuinely engage viewers. The lesson is clear: in an ever-changing cinematic landscape, even the brightest stars can find themselves dimmed in the shadows of more compelling stories.
