On Jan. 23, actors Zazie Beetz and Jack Quaid announced the nominations for the 2024 Academy Awards. ‘Oppenheimer’ dominated the nominations, garnering 13 nominations, including ‘Best Picture.’ This year’s nominations came with its fair share of surprises and history, including notable snubs and first-time nominees. Academy Award nominations are decided by Academy members. Submissions are due in mid-November, allowing voting to take place in December. All members can vote for the ‘Best Picture’ award, however for most of the categories, Academy members nominate within their own field.
Over the years, The Academy received criticisms for its nominations in past years. The Academy has been criticized over its lack of female nominees in the ‘Best Director’ category. In addition, the lack of minority representation in acting nominations received criticism, with many categories not representing minority populations in nominations. The first black ‘Best Actress’ winner, Halle Berry, only won in 2001, during the 73rd Academy Awards. In addition, the first Asian ‘Best Actress’ winner, Michelle Yeoh, won during the 95th Academy Awards. That being said, the Academy expanded its horizons over the years, with more minority and LGBTQ+ representations in nominations and wins.
This year’s nominations sparked controversy, notably for its snubs of box-office hit ‘Barbie.’ ‘Barbie’ received eight nominations, however, director Greta Gerwig and lead actress Margot Robbie did not receive nominations. This decision sparked backlash as ‘Barbie’ was one of the most renowned films of the year and received praise from audiences.
This year’s nominations also lacked the presence of many notable performances from this year’s best films. For one, Oscar winner Leonardo DiCaprio failed to garner a nomination for his performance in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ after receiving critical praise from The New Yorker and more for his performance. In addition, stars of ‘May December,’ Charles Melton, Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore, received Oscar buzz yet were seemingly left out of the nominations. Many other notable performances, such as Rosamund Pike in Saltburn, the stars of ‘The Color Purple’, and many more were snubbed from nominations.
History was made this year in multiple categories. Many historic actor and actress nominations furthered representation. Many renowned directors and composers also furthered their previous records. Renowned composer John Williams received his 54th nomination, making him the most decorated living person, second only to Walt Disney. Renowned directors Steven Speilberg and Martin Scorcese also scored big; Speilberg receiving his 13th ‘Best Picture’ nomination and Scorcese receiving his 10th ‘Best Director’ nomination.
Actress Lily Gladstone received a ‘Best Actress’ nomination for her performance in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon.’ The nomination makes her the first Native American nominee ever, furthering progress in indigenous representation. Actor Coleman Domingo became the first out Black and Latino man to receive the ‘Best Actor’ nod. In addition, women dominated the ‘Best Picture nominations. For the first time in history, three films directed by women were nominated for ‘Best Picture.’ Despite notable snubs in the ‘Best Director’ category, Justine Triet became the ninth woman ever to be nominated for ‘Best Director.’
While the Academy Award nominations for this year may have been marred by certain shortcomings, they undeniably marked significant milestones in terms of representation. These historical moments not only reflect a growing awareness within the film industry but also signal a positive shift towards inclusivity and diversity. As we reflect on the achievements and challenges of this year’s nominations, it becomes evident that progress, though gradual, is indeed being made towards a more equitable and inclusive cinematic landscape.
