Friday 11 September 2020

Alternate Best Supporting Actor 1950: François Périer in Orpheus & Results

François Périer did not receive an Oscar nomination for portraying Heurtebise in Orpheus.

Périer plays seemingly just a side character initially in the scheme of the film. This as we meet him as the chauffeur of the mysterious princess (Maria Casares) that the poet Orpheus (Jean Marais) becomes fascinated with. Périer's performance initially is seemingly equally unassuming as he offers to give Orpheus a ride home after the poet has witnessed a series of strange events that indicate the princess is in fact Death. Périer's performance even at this point carries a certain cheekiness to it. This is putting up the front though just some random, perhaps not particularly devoted chauffeur, within his jovial delivery as he offers to give Orpheus a ride home seemingly as just a gesture of good will. There is more than meets the eye however as he delivers Orpheus home, who immediately runs off to be obsessed with learning more about this womanly Death , while the chauffeur goes to spend time with Orpheus' wife. I think what I like so much about Périer's performance is his interactions with Orpheus's wife Eurydice in these scenes. This as there's a great deal of layers just within his generally affable presence. This on the first layer we seemingly get a chauffeur, who also seemingly wants to do just the right thing for everyone involved. This in his delivery where he captures both sincerity as he tries to explain to her that Orpheus didn't act out of line with his employer, however there is a minor sort of almost shyness within his expression. Perrier presents a sort of hidden quality, both in terms of suggesting that while Orpheus didn't cheat on his wife the thought may have been there in his head, but also the idea of hiding that he himself is quite aware of the supernatural elements that are going on. There's more going on though in his chemistry with Marie Déa as Eurydice. This is when he says he's not really a devoted chauffeur, he's both lying and telling the truth in his performance. This as he speaks the words it is truly that he's not loyal to her, but also with that ever so slight unease of he is lying by not really letting it all on. 

Périer's performance captures this sort of honest duplicity. This as the man hesitates to reveal his true self, which essentially is an otherworldly "death" worker, but at the same time is earnestly attempting to help the couple out of the situation he sees being set up by the princess. Périer's eyes saying so much in the moments of trying to convince both members of the couple to avoid basically the trap of sorts set by the princess. Perrier's work finds him saying it all silently even as he speaks with this modesty of only these gentle urging to get the couple to behave a certain way. This though is most key in his relationship with Eurydice, where Périer's silent work reveals a palatable sense of affection for the woman even as he is in away only trying to help her husband not lose her. Périer's work grants it this wonderful quality as there is nothing questionable in Heurtebise even though it is obvious he is smitten with her. This as Périer's performance portrays more of as a man doing all these things not to do anything questionable, but rather to try to convince a man to appreciate something he would obviously value so highly. His intent though becomes more obvious when he's not a chauffeur but really a fellow "death", who watches as the princess organizes the death of Eurydice. Périer's work is terrific here in the discontented and snarky manner he holds towards her. This as he watches with a certain sneer denoting his distaste with her choice to try to essentially rope Orpheus into her embraces. Périer finds the right comic quality in this as the two interact not exactly as rivals, but rather co-workers that maybe know each other a little too well. The situation leads though to the princess taking Eurydice and Heurtebise to helping Orpheus find a way into the underworld. Périer is fantastic in just really the sequence of being in the expository role, by finding the right sort of strict conviction as he speaks while also doing it with a levity as though he's professional detailing his job. Eventually enabling a reprieve for Orpheus and his wife by taking the situation to the otherworld's top brass. Périer's great in the scene as he must admit he loves Eurydice as he brings such a sense of vulnerability in the moment of admitting to it. This again though in the sense of not as though he ever had such plans, but rather is somberly accepting that never could have her. This though allowing that reprieve though with the condition that Orpheus not look at this wife. Périer being great along with Marais and Dea in realizing this in a specifically comic way. This as Périer's hilarious constant reminders to Orpheus to not look and trying to adjust the two best he can. Unfortunately this doesn't work leading to a larger sacrifice of both deaths to turn time back and live Orpheus and Eurydice in marital bliss. Périer's final silent moments being heartbreaking yet also in a way sweet, as Heurtebise sadly looks upon at the couple, seeing the joy he could never have.

Next: 1931 lead and supporting (Won't be doing a lineup.)

245 comments:

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Luke Higham said...

Happy to see another 5 for this year and Sanders keeping the win.

Louis: Ratings and thoughts on the remaining 4s and 4.5s.

Your Female Lead and Supporting top 15s with ratings.

Edward G. Robinson in Five Star Final and Boris Karloff in The Criminal Code.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: And thoughts on Jack Warner in The Blue Lamp.

Shaggy Rogers said...

Louis: Could Charlie Chaplin go up to the City Lights? I really wanted to see him get a lineup. In my opinion Peter Lorre in M would be placed in a supporting

houndtang said...

Am I misrembering or did you upgrade Jason Robards in Julia and All the President's Men?

Luke Higham said...

Houndtang: He was definitely upgraded for All The President's Men, I don't recall that ever happening for Julia.

Anonymous said...

Louis what are your thoughts on the visual effects for Destination Moon?

GM said...

Robert Williams, Platinum Blonde
Edward G. Robinson, Smart Money
Edward G. Robinson, Five Star Final
Raimu, Marius
Harry Baur, David Golder
Hal Skelly, The Struggle
Michel Simon, La Chienne
Fredric March, Honor Among Lovers
Robert Montgomery, Private Lives
Heinrich George, Berlin Alexanderplatz

Mitchell Murray said...

So, I'm about half way through "The Last Airbender" show and I have to say....while Dante Basco is a deserved fan favourite, I also think Mako's voice work as Iroh is a little underrated.

Michael McCarthy said...

Mitchell: I don’t see how he’s underrated at all, everyone I know of who’s seen the show LOVES Mako’s work as Iroh.

Mitchell Murray said...

Michael: Well it might just be the crowd of people I've talked too, then, who are all so fond of Zuko - and again, the love for that character/Basco is well earned.

But yes...Mako did a wonderful job in the role, and I love the little vignette they gave him in season 2.

Tim said...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDTACjl2zu8

once again, Louis, what do you think of this?

Anonymous said...

Louis what is your rating and thoughts on Edna May Oliver in Drums Along the Mohawk.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Could Bruno Ganz go up for The American Friend.

Tim said...

So, i just watched Witness For The Prosecution and found it pretty good. The opening 20 min or so dragged a bit, the big twist was somewhat forseeable and the last moments were underplayed by Elsa Lanchester, but otherwise i found it pretty enjoyable, although far from my favorite Wilder.



Laughton: 4
Power: 4
Dietrich: 4
Lanchester: 2.5

Mitchell Murray said...

So season 2 of "Airbender" is just as strong as the first - perhaps even better, honestly, since the stakes are consistently higher, and they try to do different things with the episode template (Ex. The solo stories for Zuko and Appa).

Anonymous said...

Luke, are there any Bruno Ganz performances that you think could be in contention for a review?

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: The American Friend maybe if he could potentially be upgraded. Aside from that, no.

Luke Higham said...

I'm gonna make my first Oscar Predictions for Picture, Directing and Acting.

Picture
Mank
Nomadland
The Trial Of The Chicago 7
Dune
News Of The World
One Night In Miami
Da 5 Bloods
The French Dispatch
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Judas And The Black Messiah

Director
David Fincher/Mank
Chloe Zhao/Nomadland
Denis Villeneuve/Dune
Spike Lee/Da 5 Bloods
Wes Anderson/The French Dispatch
Alt. Paul Greengrass/News Of The World and Regina King/One Night In Miami

Actor
Gary Oldman/Mank
Anthony Hopkins/The Father
Delroy Lindo/Da 5 Bloods
Daniel Kaluuya/Judas And The Black Messiah
Adam Driver/Annette

Alt. Tom Hanks/News Of The World and Eddie Redmayne/Trial Of The Chicago 7

Actress
Frances McDormand/Nomadland
Viola Davis/Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Jennifer Hudson/Respect
Michelle Pfeiffer/French Exit
Kate Winslet/Ammonite

Alt. Amy Adams/Hillbilly Elegy, Marion Cotillard/Annette and Carey Mulligan/Promising Young Woman

Supporting Actor
Chadwick Boseman/Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Tom Burke/Mank
Bill Murray/On The Rocks
Kingsley Ben-Adir/One Night In Miami
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II/Trial Of The Chicago 7
Alt. Lakeith Stanfield/Judas And The Black Messiah, David Strathairn/Nomadland and Mark Rylance & Sacha Baron Cohen/Trial Of The Chicago 7

Supporting Actress
Glenn Close/Hillbilly Elegy
Saoirse Ronan/Ammonite
Olivia Colman/The Father
Amanda Seyfried/Mank
Audra McDonald/Respect
Alt. Helena Zengel/News Of The World and Ariana DeBose/West Side Story

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: How would you rank all the Hindi and Bangla films that you've seen?

Luke Higham said...

Tahmeed: Are you gonna request Irrfan Khan in Maqbool next. Out of him, Washington, M. Macfadyen and Nyqvist, he has the most 5 potential.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Luke: Very likely. I intend to request him once I rewatch the film and see whether he's at least a strong 4.5.

Mitchell Murray said...

Also, if there are any comic book aficionados here, who would you like to see play Booster Gold if they were to do a movie about him?

Personally, I can see Chris Pratt being an easy choice, both for his goofy style of humour, as well as a certain selflessness which he could be pushed into showing.

Matt Mustin said...

Mitchell: I don't need Chris Pratt to lead another franchise.

Anonymous said...

@Luke Higham you may want to put in Vanessa Kirby for Actress. Tons of buzz especially now more bc of that Volpi Cup win. Seems like Venice is becoming more of a precursor these days.

Also want to point out that every single "local" (Uk/aussie/American) recent winner of the Actress Volpi Cup, with the Exception of Rampling went on to win the Oscar that year or other major awards (Julianne Moore, Helen Mirren, Imelda Staunton, Emma Stone, Cate Blanchett, Emma Stone, and Olivia Colman)

Mitchell Murray said...

Matt: Valid point, but I would still say he'd be an able choice for Booster.

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: I'll definitely take it into consideration next time because Ammonite didn't get much momentum from Venice as it probably could've done.

Robert MacFarlane said...

Mitchell: I'd sooner eat a maggot-infested moose carcass than allow Chris Pratt anywhere near Booster Gold.

BRAZINTERMA said...

My Predictions:

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY:
- Nomadland
- News Of The World
- Hillbilly Elegy
- Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
- The Father
Maybe = Dune, One Night in Miami or I'm Thinking of Ending Things

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY:
- Mank
- The Trial of the Chicago 7
- The French Dispatch
- On the Rocks
- Ammonite
Maybe = Minari, Soul or Judas and the Black Messiah

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS:
- Glenn Close (Hillbilly Elegy)
- Saoirse Ronan (Ammonite)
- Olivia Colman (The Father)
- Amanda Seyfried (Mank)
- Audra McDonald (Respect)
Maybe = Helena Zengel (News of the World), Mary J. Blige (Respect) or Ariana DeBose (West Side Story)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR:
- Chadwick Boseman (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom or Da 5 Bloods)
- Lakeith Stanfield (Judas And The Black Messiah)
- Sacha Baron Cohen (Trial Of The Chicago 7)
- Tom Burke (Mank)
- David Strathairn (Nomadland)
Maybe = Kingsley Ben-Adir (One Night In Miami), Charles Dance or Tom Pelphrey (Mank) and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II or Jeremy Strong (Trial Of The Chicago 7)

BEST ACTRESS:
- Michelle Pfeiffer (French Exit)
- Amy Adams (Hillbilly Elegy)
- Frances McDormand (Nomadland)
- Viola Davis (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom)
- Kate Winslet (Ammonite)
Maybe = Jennifer Hudson (Respect), Sidney Flanigan (Never Rarely Sometimes Always) or Vanessa Kirby (Pieces of a Woman)

BEST ACTOR:
- Anthony Hopkins (The Father)
- Delroy Lindo (Da 5 Bloods)
- Gary Oldman (Mank)
- Daniel Kaluuya (Judas And The Black Messiah)
- Tom Hanks (News of the World)
Maybe = Joaquin Phoenix (C’mon C’mon), Bill Murray (On the Rocks) or Michael Fassbender (Next Goal Wins)

BEST DIRECTOR:
- David Fincher (Mank)
- Chloe Zhao (Nomadland)
- Denis Villeneuve (Dune)
- Paul Greengrass (News of the World)
- Wes Anderson (The French Dispatch)
Maybe = Spike Lee (Da 5 Bloods), Regina King (One Night In Miami) or Steven Spielberg (West Side Story)

BEST PICTURE:
- Mank
- Nomadland
- Dune
- News of the World
- The French Dispatch
- Da 5 Bloods
- The Trial Of The Chicago 7
- Hillbilly Elegy
- Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
- The Father
Maybe = West Side Story, Ammonite or One Night In Miami

Mitchell Murray said...

Robert: Harsh, but alright then...who would you cast?

Tim said...

Robert: rough, but good word choice

Luke Higham said...

Films To Watch
Arrowsmith
Tokyo Chorus
Dishonored
Possessed
Limite
Tabu
Mädchen In Uniform
Kameradschaft
David Golder (Harry Baur)
Miracle Woman (Barbara Stanwyck)
Beau Hunks (Laurel & Hardy)
The Last Flight
À Nous la Liberté
The Smiling Lieutenant
Street Scene
Her Majesty Love
Safe In Hell
The Congress Dances
East Lynne
Trader Horn
Bad Girl
The Sin of Madelon Claudet

RatedRStar said...

Keep in mind its not October yet as per Louis's orders and the Oscars have been pushed back, I don't even know if The French Dispatch is coming out this year.

RatedRStar said...

Same with Annette

Luke Higham said...

Daniel, The eligibility period ends at the end of February so it's still quite possible for both at the moment.

Luke Higham said...

And Louis wanting to give his predictions in October doesn't mean I have to wait till then to give my own.

Anonymous said...

Luke, I have to agree with Daniel. Best to wait a little bit until some of the contenders have confirmed release dates, even if they are in 2021.

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: Even so, it's my choice. Louis and Daniel can do whatever they personally want to do.

Luke Higham said...

And I won't be giving my updated predictions until Christmas.

Luke Higham said...

Annette is being distributed by Amazon by the way.

RatedRStar said...

Luke: Thats fine lol, I am just saying, I don't know if we are clear on what films are definitely coming out during Oscar season, I wouldn't put it past some of these films to push back.

Calvin Law said...

Luke: no Minari?

Luke Higham said...

Calvin: I'll wait until December.

Anonymous said...

Nomadland won the Golden Lion, but McDormand didn’t win Best Actress. Does this mean that she's not a lock as previously thought or is it just Venice spreading out the awards?
Also, could Vanessa Kirby be a contender too, seeing as it's an American movie and she's quite recognizable?

Anonymous said...

Also, Ammonite reviews are in, and it currently has a 69% on Rotten Tomatoes, which does not bode well for its chances at the Oscars.

Mitchell Murray said...

Anonymous: It might be a mute point now, but I'll say it again...

Joker - 68%
Vice - 66%
Bohemian Rhapsody - 60%

Heck, even "The Reader" - Winslet's last film to be nominated for best picture - is at 63%. What am I getting at? Simply that the oscar voters don't really care for Rotten tomatoes scores, or most critic scores for that matter.

Anonymous said...

Mitchell: Well, but the thing is, these movies were all hugely popular, except for The Reader, which probably got in because of the subject matter, one that the Oscars love. I don't really see them being all that giving for Ammonite, especially when Carol, another period movie about lesbians in a forbidden affair, failed to get BP and BD nods, even when it was one of the most acclaimed movies of 2015; Ammonite probably isn't even gonna hit the Top 20.
But IDK, it's a wild year, anything can happen.

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

Walbrook - 4.5(His performance I think is in many ways essential for finding the tone of the film on top of Ophlus's lurid direction. This as he brings his sort of domineering and almost critical commentary, though cheeky all the same. There's an interesting duplicity that he develops as his performance is both sort of snide towards the material, just as he also sort of sets it all up. He's delightfully cold in this wonderful contrast as this almost godlike figure that is more playing with every member of the "circle" rather than merely observing them.)

Sjorstrom - 4(Terrific sort of insufferable teacher type. This just with his sort of combination of a blunt critical coldness though with this still grandfatherly warmth within it all. Sjorstrom's manner is great in how straight he plays every one of the man's rather brutal criticisms of his orchestra. This though still in subtly showing that the man does care for his players even as he consistently reams them out while also downplaying any of their needs.)

Hernandez - 4(Just a wonderful mentor role from in what can be described as a banner year I think. This as he makes the most out every one of his speeches that best gets across the idea of the sort passion of the music. This though with a fatherly grace he realizes so beautifully in his moments with Douglas, particularly in his elegant yet moving portrayal of the man slowly losing his faculties through age. Wonderful work from a terribly underrated pioneering actor.)

Guinness - 4(Guinness as Disraeli ought to be good, and it is. Although this is yet another film that fails to truly capitalize on that most fascinating of prime ministers. Guinness excels as one should expect within the role even here in the confines as the slightly critical confidant. Guinness particularly knocking his final speech with ease. Terrific work even if this is overall another underwhelming Disraeli depiction, in terms of the writing, for me.)

Gwenn - 4(Just an absolutely sweet heartfelt performance that made the movie watchable for me. Gwenn makes for such an atypical but earnest romantic "lead" through the strict sincerity both in the strictly romantic moments and his goofier moments of getting involved in the rivalry.)

Bond - 3.5(Honestly the more Bond gets to do the better he is usually. Well that is the case here and makes for a wonderful sort of heartfelt leader type. A good performance and I always enjoy when he gets a bigger role.)

Coburn - 3.5(An enjoyable bit of grumpy Coburn even if kind of a lesser rendition of his work in The Devil and Miss Jones.)

Warner - 3.5(Unfortunate that he leaves so quickly within the film as he's the most interesting part of the film through his nuanced and honest depiction of the every day beat cop. A good performance that certainly leaves an impression, though surprising to see just how big of an impression he made overall.)

Lead:

1. Gloria Swanson - Sunset Boulevard
2. Bette Davis - All About Eve
3. Hideko Takamine - The Munekata Sisters
4. Maj-Britt Nilsson - To Joy
5. Nicole Stephane - Les Enfants Terribles
6. Kinuyo Tanaka - The Munekata Sisters
7. Ingrid Bergman - Stromboli - 4.5
8. Claudette Colbert - Three Came Home
9. Judy Holliday - Born Yesterday
10. Peggy Cummins -Gun Crazy - 4
11. Anne Baxter - All About Eve
12. Eleanor Parker - Caged
13. Barbara Stanwyck - The Furies - 4
14. Mala Powers - Outrage - 4
15. Ann Todd - Madeleine - 3

Supporting:

1. Machiko Kyo - Rashomon
2. Maria Casares - Orpheus
3. Stella Indo - Los Olvidados - 4.5
4. Hope Emerson - Caged
5. Maria Dea - Orpheus
6. Noriko Honma - Rashomon
7. Margit Carlqvist - To Joy
8. Betty Garde - Caged
9. Eleanor Audley - Cinderella
10. Googie Withers - Night and the City
11. Celest Holm - All About Eve
12. Lee Patric - Caged
13. Patricia Neal - The Breaking Point
14. Simone Signoret - La Ronde - 4
15. Agnes Moorehead - Caged

Maybe regarding Ganz.

Louis Morgan said...

Houndtang:

All the President's Men, yes (Thanks Tom Hanks), Julia, no.

Anonymous:

I think I've given those before.

Tim:

Hey now. I don't recall you asking me personal....however, watching completely out of context, I will say that was both amusing and moving to some degree. Noting for Lithgow's ability with comedy and drama, and using him for both at the same time isn't at all a bad choice.

Anonymous:

Festivals spread the love all the time, that does nothing to McDormand's chances (Phoenix was up for the Volpi Cup and didn't win last time, but that obviously didn't hurt his Oscar chances.) Her personal reviews have been stellar. Now it'll be tough for her to get her third win no matter what (it would take a super sweep/lack of competition), but she definitely seems a good bet for a nomination at the moment.

Kirby is obviously now a contender.

Shaggy:

No.

Mitchell:

Though I guess he's too old now, I for one would be fine with Tom Everett Scott reprising the role.

Anonymous:

Ammonite's reviews aren't honestly all that surprising after that "middle of the road" looking trailer. More than anything it means it probably won't be a major contender, but the actresses could still be a thing. Unless, like Mitchell's films (sans Vice which I think got helped by last film syndrome), it is some big hit with audiences, which seems unlikely.

Anonymous:

Well greatly preferred Orpheus's simple yet clever effects that totally hold up today, against the more expansive yet now rather stodgy effects of Destination Moon. The color doesn't help in making everything look particularly like models and sets. There is a certain charm to it still, but the effects don't hold up in any way really. Whether that's in context with the film or in a modern perspective. It is just stepping stone in seeing how much of an advancement Kubrick made for example.

Tahmeed:

1. Nayak
2. Mahanagar
3. The Chess Players
4. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India
5. The Lunchbox
6. Haider
7. Queen
8. Awaara
9. Mother India
10. Babul
11. Gangs of Wasseypur Part II

Could be forgetting something.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your Lowest five in the Lead Actress ranking.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Ratings/Thoughts on the female Performances.

Robert MacFarlane said...

So I’m still watching Outlander (on season 3) and I actually think Sam Heughan is MVP. He’s just a really compelling presence (and a really magnetic speaking voice). That said, the show recently introduced a performance so bad that I thought I hallucinated it. To those who have seen all of the season: Does Sophie Skelton get any better?

Also saw I Used to Go Here, and okayish film with a great lead performance from Gillian Jacobs. Feeling really vindicated about calling her the MVP of Community.

Robert MacFarlane said...

*all of the seasons

Michael Patison said...

Robert: I completely agree with you about Skelton early on. She is horrendous. She gets better, though she's still not great.

Michael Patison said...

Louis: Great to see an upgrade for Davis (at least if I'm reading the list right)

Calvin Law said...

Louis: just watched the first instalment of The Human Condition, loved it. Could I have your thoughts and ratings on Chikage Awashima, So Yamamura, Koji Nanbara and Akira Ishihama in it?

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Your ratings and thoughts on Nargis in Babul/

Anonymous said...

Louis what is your rating and thoughts on Edna May Oliver in Drums Along the Mohawk.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your rating and thoughts on Noriko Honma in Rashomon as well. I don't think you've given them yet.

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

Davis.

Takamine & Tanaka - 4.5(Ozu is definitely up there with Bergman in terms of just getting extremely honest performances from his leads every time. This yet another case of it, even in a lesser film from him, though still good. This in each are terrific in sort bringing two different styles of presence. Takamine with her more sort of overtly youthful if not modern manner against Tanaka who is slightly more mannered though effective in portraying sort of the more traditional expectation. Both are terrific in creating a real sense of the sisters' dynamic. This in the sense of the sense of mutual history between the two but also how the two of them differ. This in hitting the marks of their performances with an earnest truth as is so often that case with Ozu. Although neither quite hit the heights of the best of Ozu, but are strong performances in the catalog.)

Nilsson - 4.5(Speaking of Bergman we too have another excellent example of the Bergman female lead, though here more supporting than is often the case. This in she gives though such a warm and loving performance. One though that feels wholly authentic in finding the certain complication so to speak within that idea. This in bringing to life her character's love for the character, but all the same the more nuanced sense of both frustration and even betrayal with his ever continued neurotic behavior. This as even as her character is one of sort of the dutiful wife, Nilsson realizes this in such a moving and impactful way.)

Stephane - 4.5(Marvelously sort of psychopathic work in a way that usually wasn't much shown at the time. This as her performance delivers sort of a cunning and cutting within her character at all times. This coldness though wrapped within her more internalized sort of mania and certain lust as it relates to her brother. She's terrific in the way she kind of hides the more incendiary material within her own performance. A performance that succeeds both as sort of this strange sister, but the strange sister that we get to know and quite clearly understand even if never exactly empathize with in the traditional way. This in creating the strange symbiotic relationship more akin to dead ringers.)

Bergman - (I mean it seems every time she worked with her eventual husband her always had her play a similar role of a troubled woman going through mental decay. Well I can say though that she does it well each time. This time included. I will say it made the overall film less interesting for me, in fact I haven't loved any of the collaborations as film, but Bergman is terrific throughout in work that seems to purposefully subvert the expectations of her Hollywood presence.)

Cummins - 4(Almost great, though she just has some stilted moments that bring her performance down a bit. This as her whole cat in heat lusty bank robber is terrific work form her. She is extremely effective in creating the allure of the character as it is intertwined with her derangement. Making for a most effective portrayal, even if held back just ever so slightly by some off moments her and there.)

Parker - (She's all over the place and definitely falls into some extreme melodrama at times. She's effective though even with those moments that come off as a bit much in the overall picture. This in some of her moments of quieter distress are quite powerful actually, and her transformation from scared woman to brutal inmate is actually convincingly performed. Her performance is particularly good later on in conveying the sort of confidence in her presence as she presents the support she gets from embracing more sinful choices. It's definitely a bit messy overall, but still effective.)

Louis Morgan said...

Stanwyck - 4(I think there's just a little something missing within the motivations of her character, just like the overall film doesn't quite come together. Having said that Stanwyck is expectedly good in delivering on her more expected presence with an ease and grace in her confident manner.)

Powers - (Similar to Parker in that there are a lot of big moments, that you see kind of as working towards more modern sensibilities in portraying the type of situation for a women that was not depicted for the longest time. Like Parker she goes really big with this and often too big. She's still good though and overall effective in creating the more sort of insidious qualities within the character's despair and pain from her rape. Like the film itself, you can see where it works as a commendable very early attempt at this subject matter, even if remains more of just an attempt.)

Todd - (As typical for her Lean work, she's not a great lead, but she is okay here once again. Of course the film plays on the idea that we don't quite get to know who she is really limiting her anyways.)

Emerson - (She's effectively horrible in her role. This in portraying more than anything the ease of her character's cruelty that is both quite effective and also I think helps off set some of the more melodramatic moments of Parker's performance and the direction. Her performance though is coldly honest both in the way we see the complete lack of concern towards everyone around her, and particularly the quiet sadism she brings when discussing her activities outside the prison. She's properly horrible villain, however succeeds in never playing it as such, just playing her as horrible person.)

Carlqvist - (Terrific temptress performance to be sure even if limited by screentime. She's great though in not portraying it of course in such a standard way. This in she fashions the allure however fashions it through certain desperation/disregard for her current situation than sort of any actual insidious quality.)

Garde - (I think it is notable what Caged does well even as it does it in a sloppy way. Garde is part of the former quality in her performance that brings a needed grit to the proceedings. This in her no nonsense if not even suggestive manner of presenting a woman with just a standard understanding of her situation initially. She's effective as the film progresses in her showing the growing grit towards desperation which inspires a violent manner that she brings the right visceral edge to.)

Patrick - (Like Garde she too brings the right sort of honest grit to the part. This in presenting just a cold cunning within her long time con. This in her manner that brings a certain quietly sinister manner in her inviting manner, however she never overplays this. This as she balances it with a seemingly supportive manner in her offer that she nicely touches a bit of almost lusting quality suggesting more than just an interest in a business proposition)

Louis Morgan said...

Signoret - (The performances, outside of Walbrook, do defer to the direction though they are effective in this sense. Signoret being the most effective this in making the most out of being as alluring but also as cheeky as possible as her prostitute. She finds the right sort of comic manner even as she fulfills, the ahem more direct needs of the part.)

Moorehead - (Her performance works in bringing any life to some of the most obvious lines in sending out the film's message. I have to give her credit in managing not to overplay the lines by any means, and at least giving them some honesty within her own performance. This in portraying a real passion within her performance and honest concern in her reactions. Although the lines are still too obvious Moorehead makes them at least a bit more digestible.)

Honma - 4.5(Her technically silent performance is an essential part of my favorite segment of a film I adore, that being the Samurai's testimony, which again I am ever so tempted still to give Mori the win. Honma though is essential in the greatness of this segment in her performance that is this absolutely transfixing emotional dance, but also breakdown of sorts as she acts out the samurai's agony before her eyes. Love every second of her brief screentime, and find her expressions alone unforgettable.)

Anonymous:

Please refer to my earlier comment that answered that request.

Tahmeed:

Nargis - 4(Had forgotten to list her, she'd actually be my #10. She's very good here as per usual as far as I can tell. This as she manages to find a real variety within her roles and a nuance even when the films hit bigger broad strokes. In this instance bringing her typical presence and charm effectively. This though while also subtly showing the more jealous and desperate streak within the character that is slowly brewing. She finds the right degradation as it goes on giving a moving turn to be sure.)

Calvin:

Glad you loved it.

Awashima - 4.5(She's actually one that I couldn't find who played the part of the lead prostitute and was vexed because I thought she was great. This as she brings such a vivacious yet cunning quality mixed in. This with her little remarks that she delivers with such an incisive quality as she so naturally performs them in such modest yet oh so striking way. I especially love her way of being so dismissive towards Nakadai and bringing such a natural sense of the character's particular power with such an ease.)

Yamamura - 3.5(Although not in it much, I found he managed to make a memorable impression. This in immediately granting a sense of his history with Nakadai's but also the quiet depression of the man going to face his military fate.)

You'll have to remind me who Nanbara and Ishihama played as it is unfortunately difficult to find that out with ease.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your thoughts on Stella Inda.

Calvin Law said...

Louis: the most outspoken prisoner Kao who’s the last one to be executed, and Chen the Chinese soldier with a dying mother who Kaji befriends.

Mitchell Murray said...

So, I pretty much blazed through season 3 of "Airbender", and man....I can't believe it took me this long to watch the show.

You guys have to understand....I'm not a huge TV fan in general; More often than not, I prefer the closure of a 2 hour film than an extensive 20 episode series. With that said, I've rarely been so glued to a show than I was with "Airbender". Most everything the creators did worked for me; The characterizations, the balance of humour and seriousness, the inspiration from real Eastern philosophies/symbolism... It just payed off for me. I know I'm exceedingly late to the party for this one, but I simply had the urge to gush about my admiration.

ruthiehenshallfan99 said...

Might as well give my Top 10s for 1950: Let me all know what you think!

Supporting Actor:

1. George Sanders: All About Eve (5)
2. Masayuki Mori: Rashomon (4.5)
3. Takeshi Shimura: Rashomon
4. Toshiro Mifune: Rashomon
5. Alastair Sim: Stage Fright (4)
6. Juano Hernandez: Young Man with a Horn
7. Erich von Stroheim: Sunset Boulevard
8. Luis Van Rooten: Cinderella
9. Sam Jaffe: The Asphalt Jungle
10. Anton Walbrook: La Ronde

Supporting Actress

1.Machiko Kyo: Rashomon (5)
2. Eleanor Audley: Cinderella
3. Celeste Holm: All About Eve
4. Josephine Hull (Harvey (4.5)
5. Hope Emerson: Caged
6. Verna Felton: Cinderella
7. Marlene Dietrich: Stage Fright (4)
8. Nancy Olson: Sunset Boulevard
9. Agnes Moorehead: Caged
10. Lauren Bacall: Young Man with a Horn

ruthiehenshallfan99 said...

Lead Actress

1. Gloria Swanson: Sunset Boulevard (5)
2. Bette Davis: All About Eve
3. Eleanor Parker: Caged
4. Ilene Woods: Cinderella
5. Judy Holliday: Born Yesterday
6. Gloria Grahame: In a Lonely Place
7. Peggy Cummins: Gun Crazy
8. Anne Baxter: All About Eve
9. Linda Darnell: No Way Out (4.5)
10. Myrna Loy: Cheaper by the Dozen (4)

Lead Actor

1. James Stewart: Harvey (5)
2. William Holden: Sunset Boulevard (4.5)
3. Kirk Douglas: Young Man with a Horn
4. Humphrey Bogart: In a Lonely Place
5. Sidney Poitier: No Way Out
6. Sterling Hayden: The Asphalt Jungle (4)
7. Richard Widmark: No Way Out
8. Spencer Tracy: Father of the Bride
9. Joel McCrea: Stars in My Crown
10. Gregory Peck: The Gunfighter

Matt Mustin said...

I rewatched Zodiac for the first time in years. Watching it again it's my win that year for Director (even taking into account how much I adore Anderson's work on There Will Be Blood) as well as Sound Mixing.

Tim said...

Mitchell: That's rough, buddy.

Anyway, this is as good a time as ever to emntion that sometimes, growing up with dubbed versions can in fact ruin an original version for me, so with Zuko.
The german voice for Zuko is so absolutely perfeect that it is hard for me to accept someone else anyway.
But with Dante Basco i think they tried too hard to hammer in that Zuko is still young (he was 16/17 in the show); his voice does sound like a kid, but not really like a threatening presense.
My Zuko has just the right tine for his voice, not as deep as to depict him as too old, still i can actually take him seriously as a villain.
Sorry Dante Basco, but you could have played Sokka well.

Calvin Law said...

Louis: thoughts on the Trial of the Chicago 7 teaser? I think it looks great, really excited for the performances actually - everyone looks pretty perfectly cast.

Mitchell Murray said...

Tim: That's very interesting. I checked out the German dubb just now, and I admittedly like the voice for Zuko. I will still say, in defense of Basco, that the character was always intended to be immature; Less a cunning and headstrong threat like his sister Azula, and more of a volatile, emotionally conflicted teen who's heart was never in the right place. As such, I think Basco did a very credible job.

Mitchell Murray said...

On a different note, I just watched "Glory" for the first time. It's certainly aged better than it's fellow oscar nominee "Driving Miss Daisy", but that still comes with some caveats. The main one, of course, is having a story of minority struggle centered around a white lead, something Zwick handled a little better in "The Last Samurai". Putting that aside, I wouldn't say the film is totally ineffective; There's a certain power and importance found in many scenes, and the overall scope of the action/set pieces is fairly decent. It's not a great film, but it's still a decent one at times.

Broderick - 2.5
Washington - 3.5
Freeman - 3.5
Elwes - 3.5
Braugher - 3
Kennedy - 3
Gunton - 3

ruthiehenshallfan99 said...

There's still several 1950 movies I need to see, but over all, I'm pretty satisfied with my rankings. Let me know if any of you have questions.

Shaggy Rogers said...

My 1931 winners:

Picture: M
Director: Fritz Lang - M
Actor: Charlie Chaplin - City Lights
Actress: Olga Breno - Limite
Supporting Actor: Peter Lorre - M
Supporting Actress: Jean Harlow - The Public Enemy
Ensemble: M
Production Design: Frankenstein
Sound Editing: Frankenstein
Sound Mixing: Frankenstein
Score: City Lights
Editing: M
Visual Effects: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Costume Design: Dracula
Cinematography: M
Makeup and Hairstyling: Frankenstein
Original Screenplay: City Lights
Adapted Screenplay: M
Song: "La Liberte c'est pour les Heureux" - À Nous la Liberté

Bryan L. said...

Louis: To cap off 1950, your thoughts on the screenplay & direction for Rashomon?

Emi Grant said...

Calvin: I was actually kind of worried about Eddie Redmaybe, but he does look good there. Really interested in Sacha Baron Cohen's performance.

Louis Morgan said...

Calvin:

Nanbara - 3.5(Effectively delivers the right sort of discontent and bluntness in manner in creating the real rebellion within the prisoner. Also though doing it in a way in which we see the humanity within the character that also bluntly faces the humanity towards Kaji who is desperately trying to be the humane man within the brutal system.)

Ishihama - 3.5(A moving performance and really what the trilogy does so spectacularly, even as it is technically "one man's journey" is it is never simplified within that sense. We get to know Ishihama's man just as anyone else, creating a real sense of the man within his moments within the story, and notably finding the right sort hints of warmth in the relationship with Kaji even within the obvious struggles.)

Chicago Seven looks like it has the potential for greatness across the board, from the material seeming ideal for Sorkin's style and the cast across the board from those shown.
Rylance obviously, but Cohen in particular looks quite promising, even Redmayne doesn't look bad (though he might be hiding some weird expressions just for us first time viewers).

Luke:

Indo - (Her performance is a fascinating sort of balance in creating sort of the duality of the mother who seems disinterested in her son yet in the end does care. The key about her performance though is really she technically shows that care the entire time just through the funnel of a specific life. This as she brings a natural hardened quality befitting someone who has an understanding of loss and tragedy therefore not dealing with every thing blithely, but rather with the same sort of preparedness for the harshness of it all. This in not being quite cold but not warm either.)

Louis Morgan said...

Bryan:

Well I guess it is notable when Rashomon is my favorite film from my favorite filmmaker, although with Kurosawa I have no loss for adoration for so many of this films, given he made multiple masterpieces in my view. Let's look at his direction of Rashomon that I do think stands uniquely within his work, even while marking really his progression from a great filmmaker to greatest essentially. This as it carries ideas he at least experimented with to a kind of perfection. One of the main being the elements, which brilliantly used in Stray Dog, it is an essential element I think here. This as the atmosphere of the film that Kurosawa realizes to create a quality within the film that is towards the mythical. This from the men pondering the story in their doubt, in rain that never felt more tangible with almost seeming the faith of humanity left within the story. The blissful sunshine within the forest of the tale that grants it both a dreamlike and in turn technically more nightmarish quality. Or of course the wind of the medium scene as though the conjured spirit of the samurai is wrecking havoc within the moment. Kurosawa realizes each in such a palatable fashion yet seemingly so simple, as something as shooting the sun itself was revolutionary. The brilliance though of his work is of the masterstroke of the depiction of the stories as told in each, which while is within the source material, he expands upon showing what film truly can do, and so uniquely can do. This as we don't hear the version, we experience it. We experience though in a way in which Kurosawa doesn't just change the details, he changes the feelings, from the "romantic" bandit version, the ashamed wife's version, the haunting samurai version and the woodcutter desperate "realistic" version.

Now as amazing as Kurosawa's direction is, and it is, his script is as brilliant, although that is usually the case with him hence his greatness I suppose. Here though Kurosawa masterfully expands and technically simplifies the short story. This in paring down the testimonies to 4 actually, that allows Kurosawa both to craft each uniquely based on perspective and motivation, but also build upon each other. This in each, even as we see different versions of the people, we in fact seemingly get to know each one through how they tell the tale more than anything. Again though this in examining not just the nature of memory, which it does so brilliantly, but how memory itself relates to one's view of self and others. Of course he doesn't stop there through the framing device where even though it is less thoughts about I think regarding the film, is what takes the film to an even greater place I feel. This as again humanity itself seems on trial through the story, and through the perspectives instead of the three "witnesses" discussing it. The optimism of the priest, the nihilism of the commoner and the in-between that is the Woodcutter who in fact decides the matter seemingly in what actually is one of Kurosawa's most hopeful ending. I will say I think while I love a "bad" ending like anyone, figuring a way to tell a "happy" ending is an art form all on its own. Rashomon being an example of such within the screenplay, which creates the conversation on humanity and ends a resolution that feels earned, but also feels so very powerful in its realization. Honestly I could go on and on regarding both aspects but I'll just end with this. The screenplay and direction of the film equals my love of cinema, as Kurosawa crafts an engaging story through the mind-bending setup, yet uses that to explore deeper themes with such an ease and grace, but also while never loses that grip of being a cinematic "entertainment".

Anonymous said...

Louis: Is Hud Newman's best performance for you, or is it The Verdict? Also, where would his performance in the former rank among your favorite leading turns of the 1960s?

Mitchell Murray said...

So I just finished the first season of "One Punch Man" now, and it does live up to it's reputation; Silly and over the top, to be sure, yet entertaining nonetheless. The fact that it was only 12 episodes (Compared to, say, the first season of "Naruto" with 26) also meant the it "didn't overstay its welcome", and didn't have one "filler" episode to bring the pace down. I would say the music and animation are the show's heights, but they are memorable heights to have.

Luke Higham said...

Calvin: Having seen your latest instagram post, 2020/21 Lead Actor on paper could be another 2016.

Luke Higham said...

I saw The Father trailer and Colman definitely feels like a Supporting player here.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Mitchell: Glad you took to One Punch Man. Mumen Rider's scene in episode 9 of season 1 never fails to move me, and it's honestly one of my favorite anime moments.

Mitchell Murray said...

Tahmeed: While I never had a true emotional attachment to the show - at least, nothing that would be on par with something like "The Last Airbender" - I concur that the Mumen Rider scene was the season's most earnest moment.

As for my favourite moment of the whole show...well...nothing quite matches Saitama going berserk over a mosquito, or angrily realizing he missed bargain day at a food mart.

Anonymous said...

Louis thoughts on "The Father" trailer?

Louis Morgan said...

Anonymous:

Hud by a razor thin margin.

He'd be #5.

Anonymous:

Looks quite striking as a film, Colman (who looks like she could be actually supporting) looks promising and Hopkins looks VERY promising. Not quite what I expected from hearing the description, which sounded more like a straight forward drama, but this actually got me more excited for the film itself.

Anonymous said...

Luke, how many fives would you predict for 2020 Lead.

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: I'm predicting 5 as a bare minimum with Jackman, Lindo, Rylance, Hopkins and Oldman. 7 max.

RatedRStar said...

Louis: The only other film/performance for 1931 that I would suggest would be the BP nominated Arrowsmith.

Tim said...

your thoughts on the cinematography of Forrest Gump?

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your thoughts on The Devil All The Time and its cast with ratings.

Anonymous said...

Fargo season 4 currently has a 83% on Rotten Tomatoes, and apparently the writing is the worst part of the season, and Rock is way too serious for his own good.

Luke Higham said...

Anonymous: I'm not surprised, I couldn't take him seriously as a Dramatic actor after seeing him in the first trailer for Spiral.

Anonymous said...

Luke, your top five Hugh Grant performances

Luke Higham said...

1. A Very English Scandal
2. Paddington 2
3. Florence Foster Jenkins
4. About A Boy
5. Bridget Jones's Diary

I can't believe he just turned 60.

Tim said...

Luke: how do you think he would have done as Gilderoy Lockhart?

Luke Higham said...

Tim: Based on his work in Paddington 2, I think he could've been tremendous under the right direction.

Mitchell Murray said...

Tim and Luke: I don't disagree with either of you, but I did like Kenneth Branagh in the role.

Luke Higham said...

Mitchell: I liked Branagh as well.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Your thoughts on this segment featuring William Zabka and Ralph Macchio?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8cqg8Wc10w&ab_channel=Netflix

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

The Devil All the Time doesn't find the right balance of tone for its material. This is as it is so unrelenting in its bleakness yet also so self-serious about everything in its approach that it becomes comical with just how much sinfulness one can find in a single story. I mean if you have a situation where we have a man who murders his wife to be immediately murdered randomly by serial killers, I don't know how you can take it as seriously as the film does. This with just how humorless it is outside of the narration and a few of the performances. It seemed to me either the adaptation needed to remove some of the misery upon misery to make it seem less ridiculous or just go a for a more heightened tone in general to play into the ridiculousness. Although not bereft of moments, its approach makes it often quite a bit of a slog.

Holland - 3.5
Repeta - 3
Skarsgard - 2.5
Pattinson - 3.5
Keough - 3
Clarke - 3.5
Stan - 3
Scanlen - 3.5
Wasikowska - 3
Melling - 3.5
Pollock - 3.5

Tim:

The cinematography for Forrest Gump is a fine example of generalized prestige of the time, if not more than that. Don Burgess finds a nice middle of the road but appealing palette. The composition of shots are actually fairly dynamic in crafting sort of a timeless if not even epic quality within. Although I don't love the film it is well shot, in a good streamlined work. Isn't reinventing anything but doing then popular style well.

Tahmeed:

An enjoyable little examination of what really shouldn't be a question per se, though again one has to give credit how much life they were able to get out of the idea so far.

Anonymous said...

Louis: thoughts on Holland, Pattinson, Skarsgard, Clark, Keough and Scanlen.

Razor said...

Thoughts on the rest of the cast too.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Since I don't think you've given them before, could I have your rating and thoughts on Kichijiro Ueda in Rashomon? I rewatched it last night, and I was a little surprised by how comparatively low he is in the Supporting overall.

Calvin Law said...

Really hated The Devil All the Time.

Aidan Pittman said...

Delroy Lindo is officially being campaigned as leading for Da 5 Bloods.

Matt Mustin said...

Aidan: Because he is leading. Was there an argument about that?

Aidan Pittman said...

Matt: Not that I saw, but I did see many people who were concerned that Netflix would put him in supporting as an attempt to boost awards success.

Matt Mustin said...

Aidan: I see.

Luke Higham said...

Calvin: Saw the review on Letterboxd, you saved me two hours.

Mitchell Murray said...

Calvin and Luke: Honestly, I might still see it only because my 2020 film count is so paltry.

For the mean time, though, I'm actually making my way through "Akame ga Kill". I'll offer my full thoughts when I've completed the show.

Louis Morgan said...

Anonymous & Razor:

Holland - (Thinking about the film does cause me more and more to say "what was the point of any of it" really. Although then it got me thinking though that potentially the material could've been wielded into some akin to I Saw the Devil, although that film actually had a sense of humor in all its bleakness and played into the idea in the right way where this film does not. Any way I think Holland's performance actually would've worked in any approach as the character no matter what should've been the straight man, which he actually delivers well. This in portraying the hardened anger towards the cruelty of the world around him though with a sense of compassion unlike those who surround him. Not amazing work, but solid work.)

Skarsgard - (I guess should've been more of the heart, though something was missing for me given the lack of really getting to see the relationship that ends up destroying him. In the end his work just rang hollow, but I do think it is the fault of the writing/pace more so than him.)

Pattinson - (The best of the grotesques for me. This in just doing smugness well amplified by his televangelist accent that is a great sort of phony earnestness. Although honestly thinking more about the film I don't care about any of the roles themselves, which almost meld in their sleaze, and really it is the performers that create any distinction. Well he does a fine preacher sleaze.)

Keough - (There's really a lacking scene to really sell her own mania, she's mostly just there to be sleazy herself, which she does well enough even if her character honestly lacks a proper explanation.)

Clarke - (The sleaziest of the sleaze and I did think Clarke brandished it well by making his the least subtle of them all and just presenting a rotten man from in to out.)

Stan - (Another sleaze...man this movie is stupid....anyway kind of the more forgettable of the sleazy ones though I thought he was still okay.)

Scanlen - (Just being set up for cruelty though she does do well her sort of tortured innocence effectively, even if I perhaps hated what happened with her character the most.)

Wasikowska - (What a waste of her talents, though she does a fine microcosm version of Scanlen's performance.)

Melling - (Thought he did his exuberant preacher routine effectively with the right sort of mania even in his worst moments. Though I actually think his best scene is his final one portraying both the right realistic reaction towards what's going on but also with a more earnest moment of reflection.)

Pollock - (I hear the book is better, and I can believe that just by the author's work here. His narration though in itself delivers a more wry sensibility that may exist in the book I don't know, towards the proceedings than we actually get by the overtly serious direction. He does deliver a starkness to be sure but does it in a way that is far less tiresome just in his voice.)

Tahmeed:

He may be a little low, as while I do think he is overshadowed by the rest of the cast that I adore, that isn't really saying much. This as I do think he effectively delivers the one of two truly straight forward performance in the film, the other being Minoru Chiaki's underrated work. Both though are effective in establishing the two sides of the coin represented by both men who are defined their beliefs in a pure fashion. Ueda bringing sort of a blunt lack of courtesy or cheer in presenting a more nihilistic view. This in emphasizing the sort of lack of any pretense of the man prodding the woodcutter that also suggests his nihilistic view of human nature.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Have you seen any TV lately.

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

No, tried watching Lovecraft country, but it fell off such a cliff in the second episode, despite a somewhat promising first, that I dumped it.

RatedRStar said...

Louis: Off beat question but since we both love the film, probably the only truly great film of that year, what are your thoughts on the Bafta nominated turn from Evin Crowley in Ryan's Daughter?

Louis Morgan said...

RatedRStar:

I mean I think it is a fine performance on its own terms. This in that she does bring the right sort of blase quality to her general wretchedness. This with a certain smug satisfaction while also alluding towards her own sort of quasi interest in the very behavior she so viciously derides. Having said that it is a more than surprising nomination on its own because it is a very limited part, although honestly it isn't that baffling of a some precursor nominations go though.

Anonymous said...

Louis since the film festivals of the year have more or less run their course can you give your initial Oscar predictions?

Louis Morgan said...

Anonymous:

Sure...(Based only on films that have had a release or have a set release date in the qualifying period):

Picture:

The Trial of the Chicago Seven (Winner)
Nomadland
Mank
The Father
Soul
One Night in Miami
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
News of the World
Da Five Bloods
West Side Story

Director:

Chloe Zhao - Nomadland (Winner)
Aaron Sorkin - Trail of the Chicago Seven
David Fincher - Mank
Regina King - One Night in Miami
Florian Zeller - The Father

Actor:

Anthony Hopkins - The Father (Winner)
Delroy Lindo - Da Five Bloods
Gary Oldman - Mank
Tom Hanks - News of the World
Sacha Baron Cohen - Trial of the Chicago Seven (Got possible lead vibes from the trailer, if slight lead at best)

Actress:

Vanessa Kirby - Pieces of a Woman (Winner)
Frances McDormand - Nomadland
Kate Winslet - Ammonite
Viola Davis - Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Michelle Pfeiffer - French Exit

Supporting Actor:

Chadwick Boseman - Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (Winner)
Kingsley Ben-Adir - One Night in Miami (Could also see Odom being the "choice" as a way to reward Hamilton as well)
Charles Dance - Mank
Mark Rylance - Trial of the Chicago Seven
David Strathairn - Nomadland

Supporting Actress:

Saoirse Ronan - Ammonite (Winner)
Amanda Seyfried - Mank
Olivia Colman - The Father
Taylour Paige - Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Ariana DeBose - West Side Story

Matt Mustin said...

Louis: Chadwick Boseman posthumously winning an Oscar would be one of those moments where there won't be a dry eye in the house.

Michael McCarthy said...

So I just finished The Devil All the Time and while I genuinely really liked Tom Holland’s work, I have to concur with y’all that it’s way too scummy for its own good. Also, it pains me to say this, but am I the only one who thought Pattinson was *really* bad?

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Could I have your thoughts on why you chose those films/performances in your predictions.

Calvin Law said...

Michael: I thought he was somewhat enjoyable but I also thought the whole time, ‘this ain’t no Paul Dano’. Agreed on Holland being great, strong 4 for me.

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

Picture:

Honestly there aren't that many to choose from total, so current critical praise in The Father, Nomadland, One Night in Miami pushes them in for me, with the latter two having sort of the subject matter the academy could be focusing on this year. Trial doesn't have the former yet, but definitely has the latter. Soul wouldn't be in contention, but Pixar can get into picture, so if its great I could easily see it given the thinness of the year. "Ma Rainey's" director isn't of note, but I could see it get in based on the source material strength a la Fences. Last three are fillers at the moment. Da Five Bloods I think does have the praise, but it could be the early contender that stays, or perhaps shows over enthusiasm given it was one of the few films of quality when it came out, which might've encouraged some to ignore a lot of its messiness. We'll see if can sustain itself. West Side is total filler, and at 10 literally for me.

Director:

Seems potential split as Zhao has the praise and if Seven is loved usually Sorkin's writing is what gets praised the most. Mank is sight unseen but it is one where's just kind of hoping is great in a general sense. I see it as an also ran due to it seeming so different from most other contenders, however perhaps getting some momentum due to that. King and Zeller both certainly got the praise.

Actor:

Winner could be Lindo who certainly got a lot of praise, however Hopkins's leans almost towards "undeniable" but we'll see. The thinness of the category at the moment makes Oldman's promising role seem a safe bet. Cohen I think seems likely in either category, just depends on the one. Hanks is filler at the moment, as I think the film could go either way.

Actress:

For Kirby the Volpi Cup doesn't give you an Oscar, but its a good start, particularly for an English language actor. McDormand also has the praise, but the triple win is tough so soon after her second. Whereas Kirby definitely seems like she could win. Ammonite I am getting Danish Girl vibes from, not in total quality, but rather muted praise that doesn't lead to picture contention but the actors still get in. Definitely a juicy part for Davis, but again the film has to not mess up what's there. Pfeiffer as a potential welcome back, though we'll see if it is more than that.

Supporting Actor:

Boseman's role was Tony nominated, so he has the role. The film just needs to at least be okay, and I think then he'd have all the momentum.

Both One Night and "Seven" I think could go to a few players, however Ben-Adir (Malcolm X) and Rylance (crusading lawyer) seem as good as anyone. If Cohen is supporting though I'd predict him first. The category I think could allow for doubling up with either film however.

Strathairn feels a notion on how much they love the film. Going with Dance at the moment as supposedly the film is more about "Mank's" relationship with Hearst and Davies than Welles.

Supporting Actress:

Refer to previous thoughts regarding Ronan, helps that it'll be her fifth nomination if nominated. Seyfried supposedly has the role, which I can see. Colman has the praise for a followup nomination at least. Filler in Paige, but maybe. DeBose has the previous Oscar winning role, and the academy will go for the same role twice (e.g. A Star is Born).

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: What do you think are the ten most prominent examples of actors being best known to the public for a performance that wasn't their best work, a la Guinness in Star Wars?

Bryan L. said...

Tahmeed: Richard Attenborough in Jurassic Park has to be one of them.

Bryan L. said...

Louis: Your 70s cast, director & cinematographer for Road to Perdition?

Also, your present film roles for Richard Widmark?

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: Your thoughts on this clip of James Earl Jones's performance as Troy in Fences?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_kGtQmvrVI&ab_channel=NikoPapastefanou

Mitchell Murray said...

Tahmeed: To a lesser extent, Willem Dafoe and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Perhaps its a weaker answer now given they've both become far more renowned, but I don't know how many people I've talked too who only knew them from "Spiderman" and "Scott Pilgrim".

Luke Higham said...

Louis: What was James Mason's most well known work.

Mitchell Murray said...

Of course between Guinness' aloof yet engaging work as Kenobi, and Attenborough's rather spirited turn in "Jurassic Park", they're certainly roles that one could be proud of at any rate.

Mitchell Murray said...

Also, some of you might know this already, but I read that Toshiro Mufune was originally offered that part of Obi Wan.

No disrespect to Guinness, but I would've loved to have seen his take on the character.

Louis Morgan said...

Tahmeed:

1. Alec Guinness (Star Wars)
2. Richard Harris (Harry Potter)
3. Richard Attenborough (Jurassic Park)
4. Willem Dafoe (Spider-Man)
5. Michael Caine (Nolan's Batman trilogy)
6. Liam Neeson (Taken)
7. Kirk Douglas (Spartacus)
8. John C. Reilly (Will Ferrell Comedies)
9. Oscar Isaac (Star Wars)
10. Fred MacMurray (Father Knows Best)

Regarding the Fences clip I'll say it's a bit of shame there wasn't a film version with Jones, as judging by this he'd probably be an Oscar winner. Jones's performance just in this scene alone is extraordinary, and it is fascinating comparing to Washington's performance, who played Troy more as a charlatan hiding his bitterness, Jones plays it as a man writhing in it. Jones's performance is both terrifying and heartbreaking showing a man lashing out just as he's falling apart, a complete emotional wreck only propping himself up by the hate for his situation.

Luke:

These days probably Phillip Vandamm.

Bryan:

The Joker
Connie Nikas
Eric Deeds

Road to Perdition 1970's directed by Jean-Pierre Melville (cinematography by Henri Decae):

English Cast:

Michael Sullivan: George C. Scott
John Rooney: James Cagney
Maguire: Alain Delon
Connor Rooney: Donald Sutherland

French Cast:

Michael Sullivan: Michael Lonsdale
John Rooney: Charles Vanel
Maguire: Alain Delon
Connor Rooney: Jean-Pierre Leaud

Mitchell:

He'd have been great of course, although I'd say the Hidden Fortress "influences" might've been a bit too on the nose at that point.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Louis: What I really loved about Jones's performance in that scene is just how many layers he brings into it. It starts off terrifyingly, similar to Washington's, then within the breakdown, the little bits of warmth that he does bring adds so much nuance to it for me. Such a damn shame there never was a filmed version with him.

Here's Washington's take on the same scene, for Broadway (an interesting comparison)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBTXS42dj40&ab_channel=FencesBroadway
Washington clearly brings a bit more comedic deft to it, and plays to the crowd a bit more, and more than anything it shows how well he transitioned his stage performance to the screen.

Michael McCarthy said...

I've imagined Widmark's take on the Joker for years now. Would've loved to see a 40's peak noir Dark Knight with Widmark as the Joker and Jimmy Stewart as Harvey Dent.

Bryan L. said...

Who could play Bruce Wayne? Maybe someone from the Lancaster/Douglas/Mitchum crowd?

Michael McCarthy said...

Bryan: I always imagined Ray Milland.

Robert MacFarlane said...

Well, now that everyone remotely leaning left in America is having their collective nervous breakdown right now (myself VERY much included, I’m actually shaking), I’ll just leave this:

RIP Ruth Bader Ginsberg

Calvin Law said...

RIP RBG. Definitely a great loss.

Michael McCarthy said...

RIP Justice Ginsburg, and possibly American Democracy as well.

Tim said...

R.I.P Ruth Bader Ginsberg

Mitchell Murray said...

I normally wish to refrain from discussing politics and current events on this blog, but with all that 2020 has done/is doing, I sincerely hope things turn around for my American neighbours.

And of course, rest in peace Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Your courage and values will never be forgotten.

Aidan Pittman said...

R.I.P. Ruth Bader Ginsberg

Matt Mustin said...

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross won an Emmy for Watchmen, which is well-deserved as it might actually be my favourite score they've done.

Emi Grant said...

Matt: Trentticuss Roznor strike again

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

RIP Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Luke Higham said...

Calvin: Your ratings for the Inland Empire cast and is there anyone worth reviewing for 2006 Supporting.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Are Laurel and Hardy 4s for The Flying Deuces.

Mitchell Murray said...

So "Akame Ga Kill" is a solid show, albeit a rather draining one to watch. To avoid spoiling the series for anyone here, I'll just say it lives up to the last part of its title, in the two ways it could've. I would also mention that the anime was made before the manga wrapped up, so it obviously has a different ending, and I'm sure that frustrated some viewers upon release. That said, it's still a decent enough series overall; The animation is consistently good, and the characters have interesting abilities. I would imagine there are many anime shows like "Akame Ga Kill", but for what it is, the series is generally fine.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your ratings for Thomas Mitchell in Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, George Bancroft in Stagecoach and Don Ameche in Midnight.

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Mitchell: Might I suggest watching Jojo's Bizarre Adventure? The first part is only 9 episodes, and the second part is 17 episodes. The first 4 parts are also on Netflix.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Charles Boyer in Hold Back The Dawn and Harry Carey in The Shepherd Of The Hills.

Calvin Law said...

Luke: not really to your second question it’s basically a Dern/Lynch show.

Dern: 5
Irons: 3.5
Theroux: 3
Stanton: 3.5
Gruzska: 3
Lucas: 3.5
Ormond: 3.5
Zabriskie: 4
Steenburgen: 3

Luke Higham said...

Thanks Calvin.

Mitchell Murray said...

Tahmeed: Already have it on my netflix watchlist. :)

Have you seen "Akame Ga Kill", per chance?

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Mitchell: Been meaning to get around to it, it's an anime many of my friends have vouched for, so will definitely check it out soon.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Lastly, Jack Benny in To Be Or Not To Be, Barry Fitzgerald in None But The Lonely Heart and Thomas Mitchell in The Keys Of The Kingdom.

Aidan Pittman said...

Louis: Your Top Ten uses of narration in films?

Anonymous said...

Aidan: Dances with Wolves is surely in the Top 3, lol

Mitchell Murray said...

Aidan: As someone who can genuinely like Kevin Costner, even I'll admit his narration in Dances was just lifeless.

Also, I heeded Tahmeed's advice and watched the first episode of "Jojo"...and man, is Dio a prick or what?

Tahmeed Chowdhury said...

Mitchell: Massive understatement, and I know right?

Emi Grant said...

Aidan: I know you didn't ask me, but I think my eternal number one choice for narration in films will always be Adaptation due to how painstakingly accurate all of Kaufman's thoughts are portrayed like and how genuine they feel.

I even think the simple exchange of...

- "She looked at my hairline. She thinks I'm bald. She-"
- "We think you're great"

...is a very real portrayal of social anxiety. The whole way Adaptation portrays anxiety, depression and self-loathing just doesn't get enough credit in my opinion.

Aidan Pittman said...

Emi: I forgot about Adaptation's narration! It's really great there, does a brilliant job of putting you in Kaufman's mind.

Also, I should clarify that the question is open to anyone here, although I am asking Louis in particular.

Matt Mustin said...

Kaufman is brilliant at narration in general.

Bryan L. said...

Aidan: Some I love are...

The Shawshank Redemption
A Christmas Story
The Thin Red Line/Badlands
Goodfellas/The Wolf of Wall Street
A Clockwork Orange
The Princess Bride
Adaptation
Double Indemnity
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Sunset Boulevard (Wilders' great at this)

Louis Morgan said...

Tahmeed:

Agreed, and it is interesting to see Washington's stage take as well.

Luke:

Yes.

Mitchell - 4
Bancroft - 4
Ameche - 4
Boyer - 4
Carey - 4

Aidan:

I know I've given that list before, as I recall clearly Calvin called me on leaving out The Thin Red Line, which I did, as I would Adaptation, as both aren't technically narration but rather specifically the thoughts of characters (as in what is spoken isn't telling the story, at least not in a traditional sense). Can't seem to find where however.

Anonymous said...

Louis what are your thoughts on the Oscar chances of the following films (ones you've excluded from your predictions)?:

Dune
Hillbilly Elegy
The French Dispatch
Respect
Judas and the Black Messiah

Calvin Law said...

Some of my favourite uses of it in some capacity are:

The Thin Red Line
Badlands
Y Tu Mama Tambien
Goodfellas
Inherent Vice
Mary & Max
The Assassination of Jesse James
Double Indemnity
The Princess Bride
The Shawshank Redemption
Amadeus
The Age of Innocence
Dogville

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Ratings for Jack Benny in To Be Or Not To Be, Barry Fitzgerald in None But The Lonely Heart and Thomas Mitchell in The Keys Of The Kingdom.

Louis Morgan said...

Anonymous:

Dune - (Tech player but that's it. Well as much as I'm anticipating it, I honestly thought it probably was going to flop (in a minor not major way), even without the ongoing situation. I don't think it will probably "carry over" to the academy or the broadest sense of the public, and again this is from someone who wants to see it a GREAT deal.)

Hillbilly Elegy - (Alright this is personal bias on my part, I don't know...the name, Ron Howard, could be a disaster waiting to happen, or just a forgettable film. If a semi-okay film though, I do think Close could potentially get in if not win however.)

The French Dispatch - (Doesn't have a release date currently.)

Respect - (Director and writer is untested. Material definitely could lead to a nom for Hudson even if it is just okay or even subpart to an extent though.)

Judas and the Black Messiah - (I'd predict it for a lot, but doesn't have a release date beyond a generalized 2021 at the moment.)

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

Benny - 4
Fitzgerald - 4
Mitchell - 4

Bryan L. said...

Louis: Your rating and thoughts on Olivier Martinez & anyone else of note in Unfaithful? It was nice to see Ivanek at least.

Also, your 1980s & 2010s cast and director for that film?

Louis Morgan said...

Bryan:

Martinez - 2.5(He's okay in his final scene with Gere, where he's decent in almost portraying a kind of warmth towards the man he's cuckolded. Having said that, the rest of the time he comes off as a more a "boy toy" than a real person going through something himself which I think that's supposed to be the case.)

I liked Ivanek and Dominic Chianese in particular, however neither get to do much unfortunately.

Unfaithful 1980's directed by Lawrence Kasdan:

Connie: Faye Dunaway
Edward: Jon Voight
Paul: Mickey Rourke

Unfaithful 2010's directed by Park Chan-wook:

American version:

Connie: Uma Thurman
Edward: Daniel Craig
Paul: Pedro Pascal

Korean version:

Connie: Yeong-ae Lee
Edward: Song Kang-ho
Paul: Gong Yoo

Calvin Law said...

Louis: your thoughts on these contemporary castings for Barton Fink and Dead Ringers be?

2010s Barton Fink directed by The Coen's (I just can't imagine anyone else handling the material)
Barton: Paul Dano
Charlie: Brian Tyree Henry
Lipnick: Saul Rubinek
Audrey: Riley Keough
W.P. Mayhew: David Strathairn
Geisler: David Krumholtz

Dead Ringers directed by Christian Petzold
Beverly/Elliot: Robert Pattinson
Claire: Nina Hoss

Emi Grant said...

I just now got around to reading the results from the Creative Emmy Awards and want to share my incredibly vast displeasure with BoJack Horseman's "The View From Halfway Down" getting utterly robbed for Animated Outstanding Program.

Yes, I'll confess my unfamiliarity with the other nominees, but I don't think that there's anything that will ever make this ok in my mind.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your ratings for Samuel S. Hinds in It's A Wonderful Life, William Conrad in The Killers and Hume Cronyn in The Postman Always Rings Twice.

Razor said...

Louis: Rating and thoughts on Artyom Bogucharsky in Lilya 4-ever?

Mitchell Murray said...

Louis: Although you've said you like the film, what would be some ways that you'd improve "Lincoln" as a historical movie?

For example, I would've put more emphasis on Lincoln's failing health, which in turn might've made his presidential goals seem more urgent. We have evidence now that suggests Lincoln had some type a wasting illness in later life, and that he may very well have died even without his assassination. One only needs to look at his before and after photos, between 1860 and 1865, to see how much he was withering away.

Mitchell Murray said...

EDIT: OF COURSE he would've died without his assassination, but it likely would've happened before he could complete his second term.

Anonymous said...

Emi: As a huge Rick & Morty fan, BoJack was immensely robbed. This season of R&M wasn't bad, but it wasn't that good either, while I truly believe that BoJack had one of the best final seasons in TV history. Well, at least they didn't give it to The Simpsons, which hasn't been good for.... 20+ years.

Michael McCarthy said...

Emi: “The View From Halfway Down” might be the best episode of television I’ve seen all year. No qualifiers necessary.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: And ratings for Enzo Staiola in Bicycle Thieves and Richard Conte in Call Northside 777.

Louis Morgan said...

Calvin:

Some fine choices across the board for Barton Fink, though I'd rather see Old Fink.

Interesting choices for Dead Ringers, in terms of directing and casting, definitely could see all three working there.

Luke:

All 4's.

Razor:

Bogucharsky - 3.5(It is a good performance however I will say the more potent qualities of the performance more so come from the direction of his later scenes. His performance is a good one on its own however in creating the right type of presence of a general but believable kind of innocence. Particularly in the sweet interactions with Lilya which makes the later moments all the more devastating involving his character and hers.)

Mitchell:

I would say that emphasis was on there to begin with, albeit briefly in the scene where Grant comments on his age.

I also don't just "like" the film but would say it is often great with just a few flaws. Honestly the only major changes I'd make would be in the editing of both bookends. First start with Lincoln's dream, specifically David Oyelowo's character's speech, which is that of a time traveler, rather a naturalistic man questioning things, or just re-write to be a bit less on the nose. The second end the film on Lincoln walking to Ford's theater, as the remaining scenes do nothing for the film.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Your rating for Clifton Webb in Cheaper By The Dozen.

Mitchell Murray said...

Also, at the risk of keeping Tahmeed in suspense, "Jojo's Bizarre Adventure" is definitely subverting my preconceptions.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: D.O.A. is 1949. Had it's premiere in December of that year.

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

Don't quite feel like adjudicating every border performance if that's where this is going.

Hmm regarding these suddenly appearing suddenly changing release dates on imdb that I've been noticing lately, I'm holding off on any changes until there's some actual evidence presented that it was an actual public release.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Are you still going ahead with The Caretaker switch.

Louis Morgan said...

Luke:

Yes because you can actually see the 1963 date specifically comes from the Berlin International Film Festival, where you can see The Caretaker is on the docket for that year of the festival for actual evidence of the date. Given that I don't include festival releases, it's 64.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Thanks.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: How close are you to finishing 1931.

Louis Morgan said...

Getting closer.

Luke Higham said...

Louis: Ratings for William Bendix in Detective Story, Zachary Scott in The Secret Of Convict Lake and Ed Wynn in Alice In Wonderland.

Michael McCarthy said...

Is anyone watching the Emmy’s? Schitt’s Creek just won Comedy Series, Directing, Writing, and all four acting categories. Has that ever happened before?

Emi Grant said...

Michael: I thought about skipping them since BCS got the shaft this year, but damn...like, that has to be historic, right?

BRAZINTERMA said...

Hey Louis, Luke or whoever is reading my comment
Tell me who would be the cast and director of the 2010s for the following films: Rashomon, Sunset Blvd., Night & the City and All About Eve.

Mitchell Murray said...

Michael: Honestly....I can't say I'm all that surprised. That show really struck a chord with a lot of people - most notably those in the LGBTQ community - and I can't argue against that sentiment. There was a sort of "behind the scenes" documentary they made for the final episode, and to see how many people we're helped and inspired by this goofy little sit com, enough to come out to their own family....well, it's hard not to be touched by that. It's depiction of queer love worked so well because, in my opinion, it was interwoven so naturally into the series; It never felt like they were making a big deal out of David and Patrick being gay, and instead simply showed them as people being comfortable with who they were. Again....it's hard not to appreciate what the show was saying.

I must also confess that with the show being Canadian, there is a certain pride in seeing it win such praise.

Bryan L. said...

Brazinterma:

Louis gave a 2010s American version of Rashomon here (actoroscar.blogspot.com/2018/03/my-wins-2017.html?m=1)

And a 2010s All About Eve & Sunset Boulevard here (actoroscar.blogspot.com/2017/04/alternate-best-actor-1984-terence-stamp.html?m=1)

Matt Mustin said...

If Jeremy Irons was put in Supporting like he should have been, he would have won.

Michael McCarthy said...

I can’t be mad at Uzo Aduba, but Jean Smart losing hurrrrrrt.

BRAZINTERMA said...

Thanks Bryan

Michael McCarthy said...

Huh, both Dr. Manhattans won Emmys tonight.

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