In the world of Oscars, buzz and controversy are never far behind. As the entertainment industry gears up for one of its biggest events, the Academy Awards, social media becomes a breeding ground for debates and discussions. This year, the focus is on the Academy’s inclusion and diversity problem.
A Relic of the Past
The Oscars, nearly a century old, often struggles to keep up with the changing times. It has been criticized for its lack of representation and white male dominance. Despite efforts to address these issues, such as the #oscarssowhite movement and the #MeToo movement, the Academy still faces scrutiny. In 2022, 81% of the voting members were white, highlighting the need for more diversity in its ranks.
Snubs and Surprises
This year, Greta Gerwig’s film “Barbie” received rave reviews and was hailed as a symbol of women empowerment. However, both Gerwig and the film’s lead actress, Margot Robbie, were snubbed in the nominations. This omission sparked outrage among audiences and the film’s cast, who believed it deserved recognition. Ryan Gosling, who played Ken in the film, even voiced his disappointment, reminding the Academy that without Barbie, there would be no Ken.
Despite these snubs, there is a silver lining. For the first time in Oscar history, three films directed by women have been nominated for Best Picture. Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall,” Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” and Celine Song’s “Past Lives” are all in the running, marking a significant milestone for women in the industry.
Groundbreaking Representation
Another historic moment at this year’s Oscars is the nomination of Lily Gladstone, a Native American actress, for Best Actress in Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Gladstone’s portrayal of a strong Native American woman has garnered attention and praise. She follows in the footsteps of Yalitza Aparicio, who became the first indigenous actress to be nominated in the Best Actress category for her role in “Roma” (2018). Gladstone’s nomination is seen as a groundbreaking achievement for indigenous representation in film.
The Road to Inclusion
The Academy has taken steps to address the lack of diversity in Hollywood. Last year, they introduced representation and inclusion standards for films to be eligible for the Best Picture category. These standards aim to ensure better representation of underrepresented groups both on and behind the screen. While some see these guidelines as necessary progress, others worry that they may stifle artistic freedom.
A Step Towards Change
As Hollywood continues to grapple with its diversity problem, the Oscars serve as a platform for recognition and change. By acknowledging talent from diverse backgrounds, the Academy can make a statement about inclusivity. Lily Gladstone’s nomination, along with the presence of female-directed films, is a step in the right direction.
While the Oscars may seem far removed from our everyday lives, they reflect broader conversations about representation and inclusivity. As we prepare for events like the upcoming Aurat March, it is important to question the norms and traditions that perpetuate inequality and privilege.
For now, the buzz surrounding the Oscars will continue to captivate audiences. Whether it’s celebrating historic nominations or questioning the Academy’s decisions, these discussions pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse entertainment industry.
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