I went to see "Darkest Hour" this weekend and thought what a wonderful, Oscar worthy performance, by veteran British actor, Gary Oldman. Then I thought wait a minute isn't Joe Wright a British Director? Money came from out of the U. S. too and locations were in the UK as well. Why isn't this considered a foreign film? Why is the United Kingdom granted a pass that isn't given to France, Italy, China, or the other foreign countries that compete for Best Foreign Film at the Oscars? English speaking? No, Australia sort of speaks English as do parts of Canada. Is "Darkest Hour" an excellent film? Obviously, but why push out an American made film for a foreign made film?
I get it, many American films receive locations, funding and incentives to come to their countries to make movies. However, the money from American actors, crew and other above the line expenses and even post production brings money back into the states. American above the line talent should be required in Best Feature Film Oscar nominations. Foreign (including the UK) above the line should constitute a Best Foreign Film nomination. Both "Dunkirk" and "Darkest Hour" were UK films and received numerous BFA award nominations. Good for them. Why can't the Academy of Arts and Science start to recognize home grown features and celebrate what they do for the Hollywood economy?
Put Foreign Films back in the Foreign Film category and recognize our own filmmakers and films that are made in the U.S.A.
I will have more on the Oscars in future weeks including my selections in which I am sure Gary Oldman will receive a Best Acting Oscar for his portrayal of Winston Churchill. However, Woody Harrelson's performance in "LBJ" went unseen. It opened in the U.S. on November 2, 2017, but only lasted a week in the theaters reaping a mere $2.5 million at the box office. Why?
Some great films in the theaters this month, make sure you get to see your fair share.
Until next week,
Bob
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