Cases For And Against Nomination Part 2

I had so much fun listing the pros and cons of films getting Oscar nominations last time I've decided to do this a second time. The following five films are on the above list of potential Best Picture nominees starting at number six, so lets just jump right into things:

Number 6


The Dark Knight


Cases For Nomination

• A great movie.
• Critically acclaimed.
• Highest grossing film of the year.
  
• Second highest grossing film of all time (the Academy respects money).
• Audiences connect with the subject matter.
• Heath Ledger is giving this film major legs.

Cases Against Nomination

• It's a superhero movie.
• It's a sequel.
• May end up being TOO successful for it's own good!

Final Verdict: I think this one is in. The movie is too big - both financially and critically - to be ignored.


Number 7

The Soloist


Cases For Nomination

• It's a biopic. The Academy LOVES biopics!
• Joe Wright directed last years Best Picture nominee "Atonement."
• Jamie Foxx gets Academy love.
• Robert Downey Jr's. comeback year could turn into love for this film.

Cases Against Nomination

• Though "Atonement" received seven Oscar nominations, Wright was not nominated for Best Director.
• Downey Jr. could gain more attention for "Tropic Thunder."

Final Verdict: This looks like a sure bet, but the hype just hasn't been there. We'll have to see on this one.


Number 8


Australia


Cases For Nomination

• Big epic production.
• Nicole Kidman can draw attention for mediocre projects (see "The Hours").
• Hugh Jackman has been picking up lots of box office draw.

Cases Against Nomination

• Will the movie be more style then substance?

Final Verdict: I'm going to say no. At least for now.


Number 9


Doubt


Cases For Nomination

• Acclaimed cast full of Oscar winners and nominees.
• Subject matter reflects a growing concern with the Catholic Church.
• Meryle Strepp is likely to get another Oscar nomination for this film.

Cases Against Nomination

• Subject matter may be too dark for audiences and voters.

Final Verdict: I see this one getting nominated should some of the above films not pan out.


Number 10

Changeling

Cases For Nomination

• Angelina Jolie in a heartbreaking performance.
• A biopic. The Academy LOVES biopics!
• Clint is the man.

Cases Against Nomination

• Clint may be getting too much love recently, which could result in a backlash.

Final Verdict: Eh, you're going to have to flip a coin on this one.

See you around for Part 3 in a couple of weeks.