PARK CITY, Utah — This year’s Oscar nominations delivered numerous surprises in what is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable awards seasons in recent memory. A few months ago, stars like Angelina Jolie and Nicole Kidman appeared to be leads for nominations, while the critically mixed response to the Donald Trump biopic “The Apprentice” raised questions about its viability in awards discussions. However, the Academy Awards nominations revealed a different narrative entirely. Here is a breakdown of the most notable surprises and snubs in the 97th Oscars nominations.
SURPRISE: Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan, “The Apprentice”
The widely discussed Trump biopic “The Apprentice” has had a tenuous standing this awards season, particularly as its theatrical runs underwhelmed. Nonetheless, actors Jeremy Strong, recognized for his role as lawyer Roy Cohn, and Sebastian Stan, portraying Trump, both received nominations. Interestingly, only Strong earned a nod from the Screen Actors Guild, making this recognition even more surprising.
SNUB: Marianne Jean-Baptiste, “Hard Truths”
One of the standout performances of the season came from Marianne Jean-Baptiste in Mike Leigh’s “Hard Truths.” Her role as Pansy, a sharp-witted London woman, garnered significant critical acclaim but unfortunately was overlooked in favor of Fernanda Torres, who received a nomination for the much-praised “I’m Still Here.” This absence left many puzzled.
SNUB: Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl”
The debate continues over whether Pamela Anderson’s performance in Gia Coppola’s “The Last Showgirl” deserved an Oscar nomination. Anderson’s turn was backed by considerable goodwill and her recent SAG nomination suggested potential. However, like Jennifer Lopez’s prior oversight for “Hustlers,” it seems the Oscars would not extend that same recognition.
SURPRISE: James Mangold, “A Complete Unknown”
Renowned director James Mangold has long been celebrated for films like “Ford v Ferrari” and “Walk the Line” yet had previously missed out on a best director nomination. This year, however, he finally clinched that nomination for “A Complete Unknown,” possibly at the expense of Edward Berger for “Conclave” or Denis Villeneuve for “Dune: Part Two.”
SNUB: Daniel Craig, “Queer”
Daniel Craig’s portrayal of an American expatriate caught in a complicated romance in “Queer” was one of his most acclaimed performances. Sadly, it did not resonate with awards voters, leaving him without an Oscar nomination and adding to a growing list of overlooked talents.
SNUB: Angelina Jolie, “Maria”
Angelina Jolie appeared to be a guaranteed nominee for her role as opera icon Maria Callas. Given the track record of director Pablo Larraín with nominations for biographical dramas, many expected the same for Jolie. However, she ultimately did not receive a nomination, surprising her fans and critics alike.
SNUB: Nicole Kidman, “Babygirl”
In “Babygirl,” Nicole Kidman gave a captivating performance as Romy, a married CEO involved in a risky romance with a younger intern. While her performance garnered attention, her past victory at the Venice Film Festival proved insufficient for Oscar consideration.
SURPRISE: Felicity Jones, “The Brutalist”
Felicity Jones, recognized for her role in the well-received film “The Brutalist,” seemed to be overlooked in previous nominations. Despite the absence of recognition from the SAG awards, her nomination came as a pleasant surprise, showcasing the unpredictability of awards season.
SNUB: Danielle Deadwyler, “The Piano Lesson”
After an earlier snub for her role in “Till,” Danielle Deadwyler again finds herself omitted from the nominations for her work in Malcolm Washington’s adaptation of “The Piano Lesson.” Even without significant momentum compared to “Till,” many hoped for a nod this time around.
SURPRISE: Monica Barbaro, “A Complete Unknown”
The competition in the supporting actress category proved to be quite fierce this awards season, and Monica Barbaro made an unexpected entry with her performance as Joan Baez in “A Complete Unknown.” Her nomination reflected the unpredictability and depth of talent in this year’s field.
SNUB: Selena Gomez, “Emilia Pérez”
In the race for recognition, Selena Gomez faced competitive pressure from her co-star, Zoë Saldaña, for “Emilia Pérez.” Saldaña’s rising prominence and moving speech at the Golden Globes likely contributed to Gomez’s omission.
SNUB: Clarence Maclin, “Sing Sing”
While “Sing Sing” has garnered several key nominations, including for Colman Domingo and screenplay, Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin was left out despite delivering a deeply personal performance. His contribution to the project, based on his own experiences, remains unrecognized.
SNUB: Margaret Qualley, “The Substance”
Margaret Qualley’s omission from the awards conversation for “The Substance” has puzzled many, especially since her performance was integral. The focus has largely shifted to Demi Moore and Coralie Fargeat, the latter being the only woman nominated for best director.
SNUB: “Challengers” score
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross produced one of their most favored scores for “Challengers,” yet their work was overlooked in favor of other films that included “The Brutalist” and “Wicked.” While they have seen recognition in the past, this snub is notable.
SURPRISE: “Flow”
The Latvian film “Flow” not only secured a nomination for best animated feature but also made history by being the first animated film to be nominated for best international feature as well. This double nomination surprised many, especially following its Golden Globe win.
SURPRISE: “Nickel Boys”
RaMell Ross’ highly regarded “Nickel Boys” saw an unexpected ascension during the awards season, being included among the best picture nominees along with some surprising titles like “I’m Still Here.” However, it missed out on recognition for cinematography, despite its creative perspective.
SNUB: Denzel Washington, “Gladiator II”
Denzel Washington had initially been expected to receive a nomination for his role in “Gladiator II.” Despite captivating reviews that highlighted his compelling performance, he did not receive a nod this year. Nevertheless, Washington has already secured his place with ten career nominations and two wins, ensuring his legacy in the industry.
