Saoirse Ronan’s Oscar season: A double nomination in sight?
A rising star’s journey to Oscar glory
Saoirse Ronan is no stranger to the Oscars, having already secured four nominations by the age of 30. This year, she is poised to make history with two powerful performances that could earn her double nominations in the lead and supporting actress categories. If successful, Ronan would become the youngest actor to achieve this feat, surpassing the record held by Kate Winslet.
The Outrun: A tale of recovery and resilience
In The Outrun, Ronan takes on the role of Rona, a former addict seeking solace and healing in the remote Orkney Islands. The film, co-written by Fingscheidt and Amy Liptrot, is based on Liptrot’s memoir and delves deep into themes of addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. The supporting cast includes Paapa Essiedu and Stephen Dillane, adding depth to this emotionally charged drama. Ronan also steps into the producer’s shoes for this project, working alongside her husband, Jack Lowden, Sarah Brocklehurst, and Dominic Norris.
Blitz: A mother’s desperate quest
On the other hand, Blitz showcases Ronan in a World War II epic, where she plays Rita, a mother determined to reunite with her 9-year-old son George, portrayed by newcomer Elliott Heffernan. The film, written, directed, and co-produced by McQueen, is set to open the BFI London Film Festival. With a stellar cast including Harris Dickinson, Stephen Graham, and Kathy Burke, “Blitz” promises to be a gripping tale of love, loss, and survival during one of history’s darkest periods.
The road to double nominations
Ronan’s potential double nomination would place her among an elite group of actors who have achieved this rare honor. Historically, seven out of the twelve actors who received double nominations went on to win for one of their roles. This list includes legends like Jessica Lange, Al Pacino, and Jamie Foxx. The Academy’s rules stipulate that an actor cannot be nominated twice in the same category, allowing the Actors Branch to vote for a performer in either lead or supporting roles.
A look back at Ronan’s Oscar journey
Ronan’s journey to Oscar recognition began with her role in Atonement (2007), followed by standout performances in Brooklyn (2015), Lady Bird (2017), and Little Women (2019). Each of these roles showcased her versatility and depth as an actress, earning her critical acclaim and solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s brightest talents.
The significance of a double nomination
A double nomination would not only be a testament to Ronan’s exceptional talent but also a significant milestone in her career. It would place her in the company of some of the greatest actors in cinematic history and potentially pave the way for her first Oscar win. With two dynamic performances in vastly different films, Ronan’s chances of bringing home the gold have never been higher.
Upcoming releases and Oscar buzz
As the awards season heats up, all eyes will be on Ronan. The Outrun is set for a theatrical release on October 4, while Blitz will debut in select theaters on November 1 before streaming globally on Apple TV+ on November 22. These release dates strategically position both films for maximum visibility during the Oscar voting period, increasing Ronan’s chances of securing nominations.
Final thoughts
For cinema enthusiasts, Ronan’s journey this awards season is a thrilling narrative to follow. Her ability to deliver compelling performances across diverse genres makes her a standout contender. Whether she achieves the coveted double nomination or not, Ronan’s dedication to her craft and her impressive body of work continue to captivate audiences and critics alike. This year, the Oscars may very well witness a historic moment as Ronan’s name is called not once, but twice.
Stay tuned for more updates on the awards season and don’t miss the chance to watch The Outrun and Blitz as they hit the screens.