The buzz around the British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards (BAFTAs) nominations is palpable but noticeably absent from the Best Film category is the powerhouse doll movie brought to life by Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie—Barbie.
In its place, the roster boasts heavyweight contenders like “Oppenheimer,” “Poor Things,” “The Holdovers,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and the Cannes Palme d’Or winner, “Anatomy of a Fall.” These films are anticipated to secure spots as Best Picture Oscar nominees come January 23.
“Oppenheimer,” leading with an impressive 13 nominations, stands tall as the frontrunner for the Oscars after clinching major victories at the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards.
While “Barbie” may not have clinched a Best Picture nod, it hasn’t been entirely brushed aside. The film secures recognition in five categories: Actress (Robbie), Supporting Actor (Ryan Gosling), Original Screenplay, Costume Design, and Production Design.
However, in a twist of fate, Greta Gerwig finds herself excluded from the Best Director list—a notable snub. Despite this, there’s a prevailing expectation that her film will secure a place among the top 10 Best Picture Oscar nominees, thanks to its noteworthy design elements and a soundtrack that has gained popularity.
Nevertheless, the prospects of “Barbie” clinching multiple wins seem slim. The Best Song category is poised to be dominated by Billie Eilish and Finneas with “What Was I Made For?” Meanwhile, Ryan Gosling faces tough competition, notably from Robert Downey Jr. of “Oppenheimer.”
Margot Robbie trails behind Emma Stone (“Poor Things”) and Lily Gladstone (“Killer of the Flower Moon”). The Best Adapted Screenplay category at the Oscars is no less competitive, featuring formidable opponents like “Oppenheimer,” “Flower Moon,” and “Poor Things.”
Despite commendable showings in prelude award events and a “For Your Consideration” screening in New York, complete with a Q&A moderated by Academy Award nominee Tony Kushner, the Oscar prospects for “Barbie” remain slim.
Regardless, Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie can find solace in the remarkable $1.4 billion global box office revenue their movie has amassed.