This “Brutally Honest Oscar Ballot,” the inaugural entry in a series from THR, presents the votes and candid explanations from a male member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ 202-person short films branch, shared with THR under the condition of anonymity. These views reflect only this voter’s opinions and do not imply endorsement from THR or represent a broader consensus.
Best Picture
While I initially enjoyed Emilia Pérez, it hardly ranked among my top ten candidates. I would have preferred to see it ousted in favor of the overlooked Sing Sing or Juror #2, both of which resonated with me deeply. Animated and documentary films often face an uphill battle with the Academy, so my real affection lies with musicals like Wicked. However, I’m Still Here stands out as my top choice for international feature. I was thoroughly impressed by the performances in A Complete Unknown, especially since Timmy Chalamet and Monica Barbaro performed live. In the end, my selections were influenced by the unique storytelling and powerful visuals of The Substance, which captures the essence of cinema through its bold execution.
VOTE: (1) Conclave, (2) The Brutalist, (3) Nickel Boys, (4) Dune: Part Two, (5) The Substance, (6) Anora, (7) A Complete Unknown, (8) I’m Still Here, (9) Wicked, (10) Emilia Pérez
Vocabulary List:
- Accord /əˈkɔrd/ (noun): An agreement or harmony between parties.
- Ousted /aʊst/ (verb): Removed from a position or situation.
- Resonated /ˈrɛzəˌneɪtɪd/ (verb): Produced or caused to produce a deep full or vibrating sound; to evoke a feeling of shared emotion.
- Unique /juˈnik/ (adjective): Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else.
- Impressed /ɪmˈprɛst/ (verb): To have a strong effect on someone; to make someone feel admiration.
- Captures /ˈkæpʧərz/ (verb): To take possession or control of something; to gain or seize.
