The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences set a new benchmark in questionable choices today, when they announced the addition of a new Oscar for “Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film,” aka “Most Popular Movie But Not Necessarily Worth a Best Picture Nod.” Almost immediately following the announcement, some cinephiles and critics pointed out that the move was obviously designed to allow beloved blockbusters and superhero flicks — like this year’s Black Panther — to receive recognition from an awards show that typically overlooks them.
Polanski was convicted of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in 1978. The allegations against Cosby go back just as far, though he was only formally convicted of felony sexual assault last week.
It takes a lot for Academy voters to recognize or even acknowledge a superhero film, but perhaps the highest-grossing film ever directed by a woman could do the trick. With a worldwide box office gross of $781 million (to date) and a 92 percent fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Wonder Woman is a certified hit. Critics and audiences alike have fallen head over heels for Patty Jenkins and Gal Gadot’s solo superhero film, but can Warner Bros. get Oscar voters to do the same?
Jimmy Kimmel did a fine job hosting the Oscars this year. He played it relatively safe in his opening monologue and throughout the evening, despite a few political jabs. ABC loved Kimmel’s hosting so much that they’ve even decided to bring him back for a second ye