5. Robert Redford: Best Actor, “All is Lost”
Everyone’s mom’s biggest crush, Robert Redford, has never won an Oscar and it’s an atrocity. The 77–year–old legend probably deserved a nomination just for nostalgia’s sake, but his largely silent work in the epic “All is Lost” was also unanimously adored. Many critics felt his sprawling performance dwarfed nominee Christian Bale’s comedic turn in “American Hustle.”
4. Tom Hanks: Best Actor, “Captain Phillips”
This super–packed category left seven immensely impressive performances competing for five spots (nine if you count Forest Whitaker or Joaquin Phoenix). Academy favorite (and overall favorite of most people) Tom Hanks was expected to earn a nom but he didn’t make the cut. Interestingly, the movie, which was most praised for Hanks’ work, still got a Best Picture nomination. However, up to 10 films are eligible for the big one.
3. “Inside Llewyn Davis”: Best Picture
Still, even with nine of the 10 eligible Best Picture spots filled by deserving films this superb cinematic season, some gems, originally thought to be sure things, were passed over, including “Saving Mr. Banks,” “The Butler” and “Blue Jasmine.” However, no omission was more egregious than the snub of the Coen Brothers’ latest film. It was an immaculately acted, melancholy film with the best soundtrack since “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” (It was ineligible for Best Original Song since it was inspired by or covered folk tunes from the sixties, including the work of Dave van Ronk, the basis for the titular character’s story. But “Let It Go” will win that category, so no worries.)
2. Emma Thompson: Best Actress, “Saving Mr. Banks”
This one is unforgivable. Emma Thompson is a global treasure who won her only acting Oscar back in 1992 (she won for screenwriting in ‘95). She’s killed it in “Harry Potter,” “Love Actually” and others in the meantime but, this year, she was an utter delight in “Saving Mr. Banks.” “Banks” really would have been flawless Oscar bait any other year. She was a lock until Amy Adams of “American Hustle” got a last minute push for a spot alongside Cate Blanchett, Meryl Streep, Judi Dench and Sandra Bullock. CB will win, but not having the wholly deserving Thompson at the ceremony will suck—girl can DRINK.
1. Oprah Winfrey: Best Supporting Actress, Lee Daniels’ “The Butler”
People can call the movie sappy, but it’s really a remarkable story of twentieth century American history gorgeously told by an all–star cast. While it’s no “Forrest Gump,” it’s certain “The Butler” suffered from its early release date, as films released later in the year—directed by and starring industry darlings—often prevail over finer films that get overshadowed. Regardless, this snub is a tragedy because you simply do not snub Oprah. She was also genuinely great but YOU. DO. NOT. SNUB. OPRAH. Just cross your fingers Lupita N’yongo of “12 Years A Slave” takes this category over J–Law in “American Hustle,” which will happen if there is such a thing as justice in this world.
Check out our reviews of "Captain Phillips", "Inside Llewyn Davis", and "Saving Mr. Banks" !
And about that "sick losers' goodie bag"...
