In this weekly feature from Murtada we follow Oscar contender appearances and interviews. With Oscar balloting closing today, who did we enjoy on the campaign trail.
This was the last week of campaigning and contenders did not disappoint. Some got a boost from the Golden Globes, while everybody continued to cram in appearances. Amy Adams got her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Natalie Portman made headlines about gender wage disparity, for No Strings Attached of all her films. Many sang “I Will Survive”.
Today ends what is termed as Phase 1 in Oscar campaigning, the nomination portion. This phase started on Labor Day Weekend as films were unspooled at the Venice and Telluride festivals. So who made it through almost 5 months of interviews, appearances and came out on the other side surprising, charming and endearing to those of us who follow these things closely? Here are our favorites...
Isabelle Huppert
Huppert was the biggest surprise. Winning critical acclaim and awards in not surprising for the actress many consider the absolute best. But winning the Golden Globe? The charming breathless speeches? Appearing on the actress roundtable? Being a constant fix on the circuit? And all of it for a film, Elle, that is not the easiest sell. Color us charmed, surprised and hopeful that the nomination is hers.
Ruth Negga
Vogue cover. Check. W Magazine cover. Check. Crowned fashion breakout star. Check. Named checked by Meryl Streep. Check check and check again. If there’s one newcomer who charmed Oscar fanatics, fashion editors and movie bloggers, it was Loving’s Negga. More surprising is that she did it all whilst having the lowest profile of any of the contenders at the beginning of the season. Nathaniel thinks she and her team have done enough to get the nomination. We are hopeful that even if she doesn't, her career will get a boost, But we are worried. Loving first screened in Cannes back in May and we have yet to hear of any upcoming Negga projects apart from the second season of her AMC show The Preacher. She clearly belongs on the big screen. Make it happen, Hollywood.
Andrew Garfield
He’s kissed Ryan Reynolds at the Golden Globes. He revealed that his mentor is Laura Dern. Told endearing charming stories about his ex, Emma Stone. Stood up to cheer for her when she won the Golden Globe. Declared himself her biggest fan this week in an interview with Vanity Fair.
There’s so much love between us and so much respect. I’m her biggest fan as an artist. So for me, it’s been bliss to be able to watch her success and watch her bloom into the actress that she is. And it’s also been wonderful to have that kind of support for each other. It’s nothing but a beautiful thing.
Who have you enjoyed the most during this Oscar season?