Telluride Film Festival: A Glimpse into Oscar Contenders
The 51st edition of the Telluride Film Festival wrapped up on Labor Day, leaving a trail of Oscar buzz in its wake. This year, three films stood out: Sean Baker’s Palme d’Or winner “Anora”, Jacques Audiard’s Spanish-language musical “Emilia Pérez”, and Jason Reitman’s dark comedy “Saturday Night”.
Reitman’s return with “Saturday Night”
Distributed by Sony Pictures, “Saturday Night” marks Jason Reitman’s return to both directing and screenwriting, collaborating with co-writer Gil Kenan. The film delves into the high-tension 90 minutes leading up to the first episode of the iconic sketch show “Saturday Night Live”. Despite mixed reactions from critics, history has shown that critical reception does not always align with Oscar success. Past Best Picture winners like “Green Book” and “CODA” are prime examples. The golden rule of Oscar predictions is to remember that critics are not Oscar voters.
“Nickel Boys” and its critical acclaim
RaMell Ross’s “Nickel Boys” has garnered passionate reception from top critics, making it a strong contender for the L.A. and New York Film Critics Awards. However, its unconventional storytelling might struggle to engage casual viewers. Mainstream AMPAS voters often lean towards more accessible films. If movies like “Origin” and “Till” faced challenges in gaining traction with Academy members, Ross’s highly respected film might encounter a similar fate.
Other notable films at Telluride
“The Piano Lesson” and its promising debut
Malcolm Washington’s directorial debut “The Piano Lesson” aims to follow in the footsteps of another August Wilson adaptation, “Fences”. Produced by Denzel Washington and Todd Black, the film has already positioned Danielle Deadwyler as an early favorite for Best Supporting Actress.
Angelina Jolie’s portrayal in “Maria”
Angelina Jolie has emerged as a Best Actress contender for her portrayal of famed opera singer Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s biopic “Maria”. This role could potentially earn her another Oscar nomination.
“Piece by Piece” and its animated charm
Morgan Neville’s animated biopic “Piece by Piece” chronicles the upbringing of musician Pharrell Williams. This film could be a contender in the Animated Feature category, with potential for an Original Song nomination as well.
Robbie Williams in “Better Man”
Robbie Williams’s portrayal of himself as a CGI monkey in Michael Gracey’s fantastical musical “Better Man” could be among the Visual Effects contenders.
Oscar prospects from Telluride
“Conclave” and its stellar cast
Following the success of “All Quiet on the Western Front”, director Edward Berger returns with the religious and political thriller “Conclave”. The film features an impressive cast, including Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, and boasts a taut script by Peter Straughan. Fiennes, who hasn’t been nominated since his roles in “Schindler’s List” and “The English Patient”, is overdue for recognition. Co-star Stanley Tucci could also return to the Oscar race with his role as a slick-talking cardinal.
“Nickel Boys” and its critical backing
RaMell Ross’s adaptation of the Colson Whitehead novel “Nickel Boys” received a mixed reception at Telluride. While the film is likely to earn admiration from the Directors Branch for its well-thought-out and emotionally symbolic vision, the challenge will be getting AMPAS voters to watch the 140-minute drama in its entirety. Despite a strong supporting performance by Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, the film’s first-person POV might lead some voters to turn it off prematurely.
Saoirse Ronan in “The Outrun”
Four-time Oscar-nominated actor Saoirse Ronan was one of three honorees recognized at this year’s Telluride Film Festival. In “The Outrun”, Ronan takes on the most adult role of her career. However, the drama directed by Nora Fingscheidt wasn’t universally adored by critics. Ronan has an upcoming buzzworthy role in Steve McQueen’s World War II epic “Blitz”, which might affect her chances of a win in March.
“Memoir of a Snail” and its emotional impact
Australian filmmaker Adam Elliott’s endearing adult-animation drama “Memoir of a Snail” left attendees at Telluride over the moon — and in tears. IFC Films is pushing the film significantly, hoping it can also compete in the original screenplay race.
“A Real Pain” and its heartfelt narrative
The emotional dramedy “A Real Pain”, written, directed, produced, and starring Jesse Eisenberg, was a surprise screening at Telluride. Eisenberg and co-star Kieran Culkin were both in attendance, showing their commitment to the film. Culkin’s standout performance could put him in serious contention for his first Oscar nomination.
Will Ferrell in “Will & Harper”
Will Ferrell has become one of film’s most beloved comedic actors. Now, he’s part of the joyful documentary “Will & Harper”, which follows Ferrell on a road trip with his best friend after she transitions. Ferrell’s charming star persona could put him in the hunt for his first Oscar nomination as a producer.
“All We Imagine as Light” and its international potential
Payal Kapadia’s film “All We Imagine as Light”, the Cannes runner-up, could be a strong contender in the awards race. However, India has a history of controversial selections, such as passing on the epic “RRR” in favor of another film that wasn’t nominated. Will India make the same mistake again?
“The Friend” and its commercial appeal
Scott McGehee and David Siegel brought their acquisition title “The Friend”, starring Naomi Watts and Bill Murray, to Telluride, where it received solid reviews. The film, which tells the story of a woman who adopts her late friend and mentor’s Great Dane, feels more like a strong box office play than an awards contender.
Final thoughts
The Telluride Film Festival has once again showcased a diverse array of films, each with its own unique potential for Oscar glory. From high-tension dramas to heartfelt documentaries, the festival has set the stage for an exciting awards season. As we look forward to the upcoming months, it will be fascinating to see which of these films resonate with both critics and Academy voters.
For more information and to watch trailers of the mentioned films, visit the following links: