Oscars Breakdown 2013

Best Picture

Argo
Amour
Beasts Of The Southern Wild
Django Unchained
Les Misérables
Life Of Pi
Lincoln
Silver Linings Playbook
Zero Dark Thirty

Most likely to win: Argo
Has a chance: Life Of Pi, Lincoln, Zero Dark Thirty
Who I want to see win: Argo

This year it seems that Argo will win take out the top honours given that it has won basically every notable award over the past few months. Ben Affleck's 1980's thriller centred around the Iran hostage crisis is a film deserving of the award and hopefully if the film does win it will make up for Affleck's snub for Best Director. Other nominees in with a chance such as Life Of Pi and Les Misérables had very positive reviews when they first came out but have failed to maintain the same level of interest as Argo. Given the controversy surrounding the torture scenes in Zero Dark Thirty I can't see it earning more votes than films such as Argo or Lincoln but there is no doubt it has been positively received and still has a slim chance. As for Silver Linings Playbook, the other film to receive an impressive array of nominations (8) I just don't see it as a Best Picture film. Instead the film has more chance of picking up individual acting awards, given that all four main actors/actresses are nominated in their respected categories. The only film that has challenged Argo for awards of late is Lincoln but I can't see it upsetting Argo on the day.


Best Director

Ang Lee: Life Of Pi
Benh Zeitlin: Beasts Of The Southern Wild
David O. Russel: Silver Linings Playbook
Michael Haneke: Amour
Steven Spielberg: Lincoln

Most likely to win: Steven Spielberg: Lincoln
Has a chance: Ang Lee: Life Of Pi 
Who I want to see win: Ben Affleck: Argo/Ang Lee: Life Of Pi

Moving past the obvious snub of Affleck (if Argo wins best picture it will be the third time in history that a film has won Best Picture without its director being nominated) there are still many great directors deserving of the award. Personally I think Ang Lee deserves the award given that he successfully managed to adapt a truly challenging novel into a film. Not only did he successfully adapt a novel that no one thought was possible, but he managed to create a beautiful film in the result.  In saying that I wouldn't be disappointed if Spielberg won given that he is one of my all time favourite directors.


Best Actor

Bradley Cooper: Silver Linings Playbook
Daniel Day Lewis: Lincoln
Denzel Washington: Flight
Hugh Jackman: Les Misérables
Joaquin Phoenix: The Master

Most likely to win: Daniel Day Lewis: Lincoln
Has a chance: Denzel Washington: Flight, Hugh Jackman: Les Misérables
Who I want to see win: Denzel Washington: Flight

This year I think the category comes down to two heavy weights of Hollywood: Daniel and Denzel. Both have won two Oscars but if Daniel Day Lewis wins he will make history as the first actor to win three Oscars for Best Actor. Hugh Jackman is perhaps the rough chance given his recent Golden Globe win but ultimately I can't see him winning. He has at least demonstrated to a wider audience his talents as a dramatic actor and shown that he can do more than play the famous long clawed mutant; Wolverine.


Best Actress

Emmanuelle Riva: Amour
Jennifer Lawrence: Silver Linings Playbook
Jessica Chastain: Zero Dark Thirty
Naomi Watts: The Impossible
Quvenzhané Wallis: Beasts Of The Southern Wild

Most likely to win: Emmanuelle Riva: Amour
Has a chance: Jennifer Lawrence: Silver Linings Playbook, Jessica Chastain: Zero Dark Thirty,
Quvenzhané Wallis: Beasts Of The Southern Wild (Sorry Naomi)
Who I want to see win: Quvenzhané Wallis: Beasts Of The Southern Wild

Once again Jennifer Lawrence has impressed audiences earning herself another Oscar nomination (not bad considering she is still only 22 years old). For many she is the favourite to take out the award along with Jessica Chastain who is fast becoming the most sought after actress. But given the fact that Emmanuelle Riva is 85 and may not get another chance at an Oscar I feel the Academy will vote in her favour. Not just for her role in Amour but to honour her achievement to the movie industry over so many years. Personally I feel Quvenzhané Wallis is the most deserving as she is absolutely amazing in Beasts Of The Southern Wild. Either way this year could be a record breaker as the award could potentially be handed out to the oldest ever winner or the youngest ever (Quvenzhané Wallis).


Best Supporting Actor

Alan Arkin: Argo
Christoph Waltz: Django Unchained
Philip Seymour Hoffman: The Master 
Robert DeNiro: Silver Linings Playbook
Tommy Lee Jones: Lincoln

Most likely to win: Tommy Lee Jones: Lincoln
Has a chance: Christoph Waltz: Django Unchained, Alan Arkin: Argo
Who I want to see win: Christoph Waltz: Django Unchained or Alan Arkin: Argo

This category is the toughest to pick for me as both Waltz and Arkin deliver memorable performances bringing their unique brand of comedy to films set in difficult times (Django Unchained) and in tense situations (Argo). I'm Glad recognition has been given to Philip Seymour Hoffman and Joaquin Phoenix for their roles in The Master. Neither of them is likely to take away an award but they both give performances worthy of an Oscar. As For Tommy Lee Jones, he has certainly gained a vast array of accolades for his performance in Lincoln and I think he remains the favourite by a small margin. 
 

Best Supporting Actress  

Amy Adams: The Master
Anne Hathaway: Les Misérables
Helen Hunt: The Sessions
Jackie Weaver: Silver Linings Playbook  
Sally Field: Lincoln 

Most likely to win: Anne Hathaway: Les Misérables 
Has a chance: Helen Hunt: The Sessions, Sally Field: Lincoln
Who I want to see win: Anne Hathaway: Les Misérables

Probably the category that seems the most certain as Anne Hathaway has had an amazing couple of months winning multiple awards and praise for her heart-wrenching performance in Les Misérables. 


Best Animated Feature 

Brave 
Frankenweenie
Paranorman 
The Pirates! Band Of Misfits
Wreck-It Ralph 

Most likely to win: Wreck-It Ralph 
Has a chance: Brave
Who I want to see win: Wreck-It Ralph

Although Brave was an entertaining film it was not one of Pixar's best and I feel the immensely enjoyable Disney film Wreck-It Ralph will edge Brave out for the top spot. Both films were a huge success at the box office aided by the fact that they could be enjoyed by adults as well as children. This year also saw a reoccurring theme of the paranormal appear in animated films, with low budget films Frankenweenie and Paranorman both earning nominations. Both films were somewhat disappointing despite being beautifully made, especially Tim Burton's Black and White; Frankenweenie that is based on his short film from the 1980's that was part of the reason he was sacked by Disney. Despite Burton's poetic redemption (Frankenweenie released by Disney) Frankenweenie will remain a very outside chance.



Best Documentary
 
5 Broken Cameras
How To Survive A Plague
Searching For Sugar Man
The Gatekeepers
The Invisible War

Most likely to win: Searching For Sugar Man 
Has a chance: How To Survive A Plague
Who I want to see win: Searching For Sugar Man

For me this has to be a one film race as Searching For Sugar Man is not just the best documentary for the year but one of the best I have ever seen.  

There are a few certainties that come with the Oscars: there will be lots of long drawn out speeches, the red carpet will receive as much focus as the awards themselves, there is bound to be some upsets and the host will unsuccessfully make a series of awkward jokes to try and lighten the mood. However this year I am really looking forward to the Oscars because there are many films/actors that I feel genuinely deserve an award and I think Seth MacFarlane will put on a great show as host.

" I'm looking for someone to share in an adventure. "

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Peter Jackson returns to Middle-earth with the highly anticipated and somewhat unexpected start to the trilogy of The Hobbit. Tolkien's prequel to The Lord Of The Rings trilogy sees a much younger Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) reluctantly join a band of 13 dwarves on a dangerous adventure. The dwarves led by their rightful king Thorin (Richard Armitage) aim to reclaim their homeland of Erebor at The Lonely Mountain from the terrifying dragon known as Smaug. The task at hand is no easy feat but luckily Bilbo and the dwarves are accompanied by the wise wizard known as Gandalf (Ian McKellen) who acts as an overseer to the daunting quest.

Compared to the epic proportions of The Lord Of The Rings the subject matter in The Hobbit seems like a children's fairytale, and in reality it's not far from the truth. The Hobbit was a novel written for Tolken's children hence the writing is quick and humourous, diving into one adventure after another. Most events happen in just a few lines whereas they could easily take up a whole chapter. It is for this reason that I understand why the seemingly short book could be made into two films. As for the decision to make the novel into three films well I think everyone is a little nervous as it seems like a bit of a stretch. However I have faith in the vision of Peter Jackson and I feel his decision is not solely based on the inevitable box office profit.

Given that there are three films based on such limited material it was a surprise to see Jackson once again make the film run longer than 2 and a half hours. In fact there are some scenes that I felt were unnecassary in the film such as some of the flashback/back story scenes for the dwarves. Also there are characters and events that are magnified to have a greater role in the film which I found unnecessary. Most notably the character of Azog: The Pale Orc (Manu Bennett) who acts as the main antagonist for the film. With the addition of so many extra characters and events I feel that the central story arc was slightly lost and even though the film is long the dwarves are still given little individual distinction.

Apart from the leader Thorin who is the Aragon type hero of the story most of the dwarves are simply defined by an eccentric trait. Such as Bombur: the fat one (doesn't have a speaking role), Fili and Kili: the young/good looking ones, Dwalin: the angry one and Gloin: Gimli's dad. Apart from Thorin the only dwarves who are given even a little screen time are: Balin (Ken Stott) the wise dwarf that has been by Thorin's side from the very beginning and Bofur (James Nesbitt) who provides the comic relief and forms a strong friendship with Bilbo. Armitage himself gives a strong performance as Thorin the loyal and dedicated leader of the group, but perhaps what is most impressive is that Armitage is 6'2" in real life. But my favourite dwarf has to be Bifur who hilariously has an ax sticking out of his head. It's this sort of inspired humour that helps The Hobbit go beyond the expected childish jokes of dwarfs being short or fat.

One of the biggest concerns surrounding the movie was who would play the title role of Bilbo. The coveted role eventually went to Martin Freeman and he is perfectly cast as the reluctant hero who proves (mainly to himself) that he does in fact have a flare for adventure and danger. Whether or not he is a talented thief (which is his chief role for joining the quest) is yet to be determined. Then there is Gandalf the Grey played by Ian McKellen who once again provides many memorable lines and saves the day on more than one occasion. It's no accident that one of the most beloved literacy characters of all time has now become one of the most beloved characters to grace the silver screen as McKellen effortlessly transitions into the character of Gandalf, doing justice to Tolkien's literacy masterpiece.

Throughout the film you may find yourself saying 'I don't remember that from the book' and that's because many characters and scenes are taken from the appendices from The Lord Of The Rings or in Radagast's case from the book itself. Additions to the film are also made in an attempt to create a smoother transition to The Lord Of The Rings films. Including the inclusion of orcs, more time given to Saruman and a greater emphasis placed on the growing threat of Sauron. Given the popularity of The Lord Of The Rings films many central characters also return in one way or another such as Galadriel (Cate Blanchett), Elrond (Hugo Weaving) as well as Frodo (Elijah Wood) and Ian Holm (old Bilbo) as the narrators of the film. Most have little or no role in the novel but once again help bridge the gap between the two stories.

Perhpas the best recurring character is that of Gollum/Smeagol who is once again masterfully portrayed by Andy Serkis. Unlike other characters Gollum was in The Hobbit in what is perhaps the most famous chapter: Riddles in the dark. Similarly the scene is one of the best in the film and although Gollum has a small role in the film it is very memorable. Andy Serkis may not have been on screen for very long but he is also the second unit director of the film, adding his talents to the long list of people responsible for bringing the novel to life.

The Hobbit was a film that overcome many pre-production issues including the original director Guillermo del Toro leaving after three years of development. Luckily the project went ahead with Peter Jackson once again taking the reigns of director. Jackson then went on to shoot and project the film at 48 frames per second, not the industry norm of 24 frames. The move was bold as it had never been done before and was the subject of much debate and criticism when the film first came out. The aim was to create a more realistic looking film, espically when seen in 3D, however many viewers found the film too fast and nauseating. I saw the film in 3D and the fact is the film was clearer but on all accounts the same as any other film. Ultimately I applaud Jackson's bravery by trialling new technology and his attempts to make the best looking film possible.

It is inevitable that The Hobbit will be compared to The Lord Of The Rings, after all the novel and films act as a prequel to the trilogy. Yet the comparission of the two may be unfair and unjust. The Hobbit is on all accounts its own story and should be viewed as such. Viewers should not go into the film expecting another Lord Of The Rings trilogy, instead they should just go along for the ride on an all new adventure. Whether or not Jackson's ambitious plans for a trilogy will be a success is yet to be determined but one thing is for sure the adventure has just begun.

" You silver-tongued devil "

Django Unchained

Quentin Tarantino's latest entry into his impressive catalogue of films comes in the form of Django Unchained. Living up to his reputation the film is bloody, explosive, captivating, at times disturbing but above all impressive. Set in the American south during 1858 the film follows Django (Jamie Foxx), a slave who is destined to never see his wife again and live a life of torture and hardship. Fortunately Django falls into the hands of a bounty hunter known as Dr. Schultz (Christoph Waltz) who promises to grant Django his freedom if he assists him on an assignment. Proving to be a competent partner Schultz makes a deal with Django involving a plan to rescue his wife from the ruthless plantation owner; Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio).

The film is exactly what we have come to expect with Tarantino: a glorified spectacle of violence, gore and mayhem. In fact Tarantino's love affair with theatrical violence and blood has almost become his curse. Going into a Tarantino film you find yourself expecting the unexpected. Wheether it's everyone in the scene suddenly dying in spectacular fashion or for the leading man to be killed off, it has all become sort of familiar. Once upon a time Tarantino's unique style of film making was bold and unexpected leaving the audience shocked and in awe of what they were seeing. Now Tarantino is finding it hard to create the same sense of surprise with his films. Luckily the man is a brilliant filmmaker with his themes of violence playing but one role in his films. Tarantino has a natural ability for storytelling and along with his team consistently produces beautiful films whether its through the cinematography, screenwriting or the music, his films never cease to impress.

Tarantino is not just bold in his style of film making, but in his decision to set his films in places such as Nazi Germany (Inglourious Basterds) and in the deep south a few years before the Civil War as with Django Unchained. Given the serious nature of these time periods the subject matter is dark to say the least and for many a film set in these periods would be hard to watch. Yet Tarantino always manages to handle these difficult themes with respect, even managing to bring his dark twisted sense of humour to the films. It's as if he is trying to pick the most challenging setting for his film and still make the viewing enjoyable, even humourous.

Django Unchained also sees Tarantino direct his first Wetsern, a genre that has inspired many of his films but is effectively dead in modern cinema. Tarantino pays homage to the film that inspired him the most for Django Unchained: the orginal Django, made in 1966. Although Django Unchained is an original film written by Tarantino there are many references to the cult favourite of Django including a cameo from star Franco Nero and the use of many original songs from the film. So like all things with Tarantino the lines are not black and white: it's not technically a remake, instead it's almost a tribute to a genre he admires and loves.

Although I could talk about Tarantino all day the cast is equally as impressive. Christoph Waltz is once again the starring player after impressing the movie world with his portrayal of a Nazi general in Inglourious Basterds. Similarly to that film Waltz' character is introduced in spectacular fashion and he never looks back. In this film his role is changed to play the "hero" of sorts (more of an antihero given he is a bounty hunter) who is as dapper as he is kind, acting as the exception to the norm for a white man in that time period. Waltz has a demanding presence on screen and is the source of most of the humour in the film, highlighting his range as an actor.

Equal to the efforts of Waltz is Leonardo DiCaprio, who I feel has established himself as one of the best actors of the modern era. DiCaprio plays the ruthless owner of Candie "Candie Land" Cotton Plantations and everything about his character from his brown teeth to his piercing stare screams hate. Calvin Candie is a looming threat that hangs over Django and Schultz as soon as he is introduced on screen, but given their mission the duo are unable to break away from his seemingly inevitable eruption of violence. Perhaps the most disturbing character is Candie's servant Stephen played by the significantly older looking Samuel L. Jackson. Jackson's devotion to Candie and his distaste for Django is unsettling to say the least, with his deceitful behaviour acting as the catalyst for the dramatic conclusion.

Then there is the leading man of Jamie Foxx. Originally intended for Will Smith, Foxx makes the most of his chance in a Tarantino film and for the most part he does an ok job. Foxx definitely looks the part, but I couldn't help but be disappointed with his performance. Maybe it's just because he was overshadowed by the amazing performances of Waltz and DiCaprio but ultimately I feel his character needed to be more ferocious instead of quiet and serious, always plotting his revenge. One thing is for sure you definitely see a side to Foxx that hasn't been seen before or maybe more than just a side! Kerry Washington is also very good as Django's wife Broomhilda even though she has little time on screen. There is also a funny appearance from Jonah Hill and a memorable cameo from Tarantino himself who somewhat confusingly sounds like he has an Australian accent.

Tarantino's long awaited western can sit comfortably next to his previous films, living up to his reputation and the expectations of devoted fans. Despite its somewhat bloated length Django Unchained manages to entertain throughout and really who can complain about too much Tarantino. For newcomers to his style of film making the film will undoubtedly shock and disturb. In fact even for devoted fans this film will surely disturb as there are many cringe worthy scenes. I think the film can best be described by DiCaprio's character Candie when he declares that "Adult supervision is required".

 

" Thanks for keeping me alive "

Searching For Sugar Man

Rodriguez was a mysterious rock 'n' roll musician in the late 60s and early 70s in Detroit. He generated some buzz amongst recording studios for his unique style and inspired lyrics that eventually lead to the production of two records. However both records were on all accounts massive flops in the US. Yet at the same time unbeknown to Rodriguez or the rest of America he became a cult sensation in South Africa. Due to a sole record that was brought into the country Rodriguez's music spread across the country. His music could be heard from every home and ultimately inspired resistance to Apartheid, being for many South Africans the soundtrack to their lives.

Hopefully that brief intro should have peaked your curiosity and interest enough to see the film however that's just the start of the story. In the documentary it's accurately stated that the second half of the story is the best part. It's here that you learn where all the money went for Rodriguez's record sales and why he never saw a cent. You learn more about the elusive rock idol whose back story was basically non existent. But most importantly you find out once and for all the truth behind his supposed suicide on stage of which there have been many rumours throughout the years.

Searching for Sugar Man is without a doubt one of the best documentaries ever made, the story is so unbelievable that you cant help but be captivated throughout. The documentary is told by two South Africans who were fans of Rodriguez and had discovered the bizarre reality that he was unknown in America. It was their determination to find out about Rodriguez's life, inspiration and ultimately uncover the truth about how he died that lead to one of the greatest stories in music history. What they discovered was more than they ever hoped for, leading to a conclusion that is both inspiring, heart warming and tragic that will leave you in disbelief.

Throughout the documentary many people are interviewed that either worked with Rodriguez or were responsible for producing his records and there is no shortage of praise. He is described as a songwriter equal to that of Bob Dylan, an inner city poet, a prophet and more famous than Elvis or The Beatles in South Africa. Yet to Rodriguez he was nothing more than a construction labourer who enjoyed playing music. No matter what praise he has received or who he was compared to Rodriguez comes across as a humble, generous and modest person that you can't help but admire.

Director Malik Bendjelloul has made an inspiring documentary that will hopefully pick up an Oscar this year in recognition for the amazing story that was told. Putting aside the unique nature of the story the documentary is a success in itself. It is beautifully made and supported by an amazing soundtrack courtesy of Rodriguez. For anyone looking for a great story or simply to discover some great music Searching for Sugar Man is a must see.

" Is it a hugging gun? "

Ted

When the premise of a movie is a stuffed bear that comes to life you may think Disney cartoon, but Ted is a far cry from an innocent child's tale. Or is it?
When lonely child John Bennett wishes that his teddy bear comes to life his wish miraculously comes true. Fast forward to the present day and John now 35 years old (Mark Wahlberg) is still loyal to his best friend Ted. The only problem is Ted's immature behaviour is getting in the way of John getting a real job or committing to his longtime girlfriend Lori Collins (Mila Kunis). John is forced to make a choice about the future of his life that involves Ted moving out and fending for himself in the big wide world.  

Seth MacFarlane creator of hit animated series such as Family Guy and American Dad! makes his feature film debut with this outrageous comedy centered around a sweet teddy bear that swears, smokes, drinks and has sex...? The film is sure to offend many viewers, especially viewers that are unfamiliar with MacFarlane's previous shows that continually push the boundaries of comedy. Personally I found the film hilarious, it was exactly what I expected and hoped for. There is no doubt MacFarlane treads a fine line with his style of comedy but I feel he has succeeded in this film as he once again shamelessly shares his unique views on the world.

Seth Macfarlane is not just the director and writer of Ted he also provides the voice talent for the central character, as he does for his other shows. It's a well known fact that MacFarlane has an impressive talent when it comes to doing voices and although Ted may sound like Peter Griffith there's no denying the character is original and unique.

There is great chemistry between best friends Ted and John played with enthusiasm by Wahlberg. I'm sure it would have been challenging for Wahlberg, because I'm not sure what or who he was talking to most of the time given that Ted is CGI. Together the two share in some very memorable scenes such as the white trash guessing game (it will make sense when you see the film), meeting their childhood hero (a great cameo that I wont spoil) as well as the over top fight sequence that is dare I say it Family Guyesque (think Peter vs The Giant Chicken).

Mark Wahlberg is perfectly cast as a man struggling to grow up and let go of his friend Ted. Whalberg is an actor that has stared in some quality films (The Departed, The Fighter) but he has never quite proved himself as a versatile actor. Sure he can play a tough guy or helm a summer blockbuster but he never really established himself as a quality dramatic actor. However he recently proved that he has a knack for comedy after appearing in the refreshingly funny film; The Other Guys. I feel he has proved once again in Ted that he has great comic timing as he was a great support to the character of Ted.

Ted is a film that doesn't hold any punches, the comedy is honest, often offensive but for the most part very funny. The film shouldn't be taken too seriously, I mean its about a bear that's come to life, just go with it and your sure to have a good time. All I can say is look out for Ted 2 and bring on the Oscars, I'm excited to see what MacFarlane has in store.