Here’s the deal. I left “The Wrestler” off of the Best Picture poll from two weeks ago (which had “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “Milk” leading the way). It wasn’t because of the film’s quality. Quite obviously, I loved the film. But it is very bleak and very small and, in the way of editorializing, I clipped it from the contenders. I just figured it too unlikely a scenario.
Well, over the weekend I’m told Fox Searchlight is “going for it” on the Best Picture front on this film, which had its U.S. debut at AFI Fest last week. I’m also told the film is receiving standing ovations at guild screenings, though one can’t be sure if that enthusiasm is focused more on Mickey Rourke’s stunning portrayal than it is the film as a whole. But regardless of that, the studio is getting serious on the more-than-just-the-performance front.
So, with that in mind, I thought I’d right the wrong of the last poll and offer up “The Wrestler” and its Best Picture fate to the readership. Very simple question: Do you think the film will receive a Best Picture nomiantion? Tell us in the sidebar poll!
Comments
11 responses to “POLL: ‘The Wrestler’ — Best Picture nominee?”
I figured Searchlight would be “going for it” with Slumdog which very easily can nab a spot with the proper campaign.
I am partial to The Wrestler myself. I adore the film. But I too think that it won’t be up enough of AMPAS’ alley to get it a slot for Picture.
I don’t think there’s any question that Rourke will be in there though. He’s nothing short of astonishing as The Ram. I love that performance and the film to pieces.
I’m beginning to think it will and while some consider Slumdog more traditional BP fair, I feel strongly that Searchlight’s best shot is with The Wrestler. It stays with you more than Slumdog. Its themes are more relatable. It’s performances are richer. Both were good but The Wrestler has what it takes to actually get in the ring and fight.
Wait… did I miss something? Is “The Wrestler” out already?
Perhaps you should have just left the answers as YES or NO? I wasn’t aware so many people had seen this already.
Well that’s fair enough. I should have made the answers a little vague beyond “yes” and “no.”
I’ve decided not to answer such questions anymore about film’s I haven’t seen yet. I guess this and Slumdog both have to be seen to be believed.
I think Kris’s initial gut instincts were right… extremely well made, moving, fantastic performance, but very bleak, gritty, small. Just not up Oscar’s alley… if the last 60 seconds had gone in a different direction, MAYBE.
I’m not totally sure about “Slumdog” either, but unlike “Wrestler,” it is the sort of movie I see engendering LOVE rather than strong respect.
Umm…what exactly makes Slumdog ‘traditional BP fair’? Yeah, it’s feel-good and all, but I can’t think of another BP nominee of such unique style.
Hmmm…I’ll get back with you on this. Namely, when I’ve seen them.
Slumdog is in. No question in my mind.
I found the ending oddly hopeful and triumphant.
I think The Wrestler has a better shot than The Dark Knight, and if some of the bigger guns, like Australia or Button, fall to the wayside, I could see it make it. Rourke could carry the film if he begins sweeping the awards, as I suspect he just might.
not sure what polling system you use, but when I view the site in both IE and FF, the polls are displayed as if I already voted, it may be a cookie on my machine, but always found that as odd…