Sunday 19 February 2017

Sunday February 19th, 2017 And the Oscar Goes To…


















Will the musical sensation La La Land, with its record tying 14 Academy Award nominations, be named best picture, or will independent film Moonlight claim glory? That is the big question that will only be answered on Sunday, February 26th, when the annual Academy Awards, or Oscars, will air, honouring the film achievements from the past year. With over 20 nominated films, this year’s nominees represent a diverse selection of American and international films competing for the top prize. Millions of film enthusiasts around the world will tune in to see which film will be crowned as the best picture.

Before placing any bets, have you seen any of the nominated films? Unfortunately, most films up for awards have not been released onto DVD. However, some films that had earlier release dates can now be found on the Thunder Bay Public Library (TBPL) shelves. One of these films is the critically acclaimed western Hell or High Water, starring Ben Foster and Chris Pine as a couple of bank robbers on the run from law enforcement. Nominated for four Oscars, including best picture, Hell of High Water successfully combines brain with brawn into an exciting film that is sure to become a classic. Jeff Bridges costars in a nominated performance as a police officer on pursuit of the robbers.

In the best actor category, the underrated Viggo Mortensen surprised critics and audiences with his gentle and nuanced performance in the sleeper hit Captain Fantastic. Mortensen plays Ben, a father raising his six children in the Washington wilderness, teaching them how to live a self-sustainable life away from the evils of capitalism. However, due to an unforeseen circumstance, Ben must bring his children into the city where they are exposed to a world outside of their own, one that includes their grandparents. Based on an original screenplay by writer/director Matt Ross, Captain Fantastic is an engaging film worth investing in.

The most competitive category at this year’s Oscars is the best actress race, one that includes newcomer Ruth Negga, and seasoned veteran Meryl Streep. Negga stars in Loving, a fact based drama about Richard and Mildred Loving, a couple living in 1960s Virginia who fought for the recognition of their marriage in a state that banned interracial unions. The film is a powerful tribute to a couple that was instrumental in abolishing a racist constitution. Another real-life heroine is the subject of Florence Foster Jenkins, a film about a New York socialite who dreamed of performing as an opera singer, despite her musical shortcomings. Streep stars in the title role in a performance far from the dramatic territory of Loving. The film is funny and lighthearted, once again showcasing a brilliant performance from Streep.

In the animation category, Kubo and the Two Strings captured audiences’ attention with a unique visual style and engaging story about a one-eyed boy who must protect his family from a dangerous spirit summoned by his own hand. Featuring a first rate cast, Kubo and the Two Strings is a terrific movie going experience for the whole family. Similarly, Zootopia is another cerebral animated film that both challenges and entertains its audiences. Set in a world populated by animals, the action takes place in the metropolis Zootopia where all animals, prey and predators alike, live in complete harmony. When a crime occurs that threatens to undue peace, a rabbit and fox must join forces to ensure the prosperity of their beloved Zootopia.

Before the Academy Awards air, be sure to stop by the closest TBPL branch to pick up any one these films. Due the high circulation of these Oscar nominated films during awards season, use your library card to place a hold on the item so that you can guarantee the chance to sign it out. Patrons can place holds by visiting www.tbpl.ca or by calling our main line at 345-8275 where our staff are happy to do it for you. Be sure to check out TBPL’s online catalogue for the release of other Oscar nominated films in the future.  

Petar Vidjen



No comments: