An Academy Awards Shortlist Unlike Any Other

There’s nothing quite like a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning, or a cold beer on a hot afternoon. But what about an Academy Awards shortlist that's unlike any other in history?
Well, that's what we have this year as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have announced the official shortlist for the 97th Academy Awards. And it is a doozy with some of the most diverse and exciting films in recent memory making the cut.
So, what are we waiting for? Let's dive right in!

The Contenders

As usual, the Best Picture race is shaping up to be a tight one with a number of strong contenders vying for the top prize. There's the epic historical drama "Belfast," the poignant coming-of-age story "CODA," and the star-studded musical "West Side Story."
Other contenders include the dark comedy "Don't Look Up," the biographical drama "King Richard," and the psychological thriller "The Power of the Dog."

Diversity Takes Center Stage

One of the most exciting things about this year's Oscars is the incredible diversity of the films that made the shortlist. "CODA" is the first film with a predominantly deaf cast to be nominated for Best Picture. "West Side Story" features a cast of Latino actors, and "Belfast" tells the story of a working-class family in Northern Ireland.
This diversity is a reflection of the changing face of Hollywood, and it's a welcome sign that the Academy is finally recognizing the importance of telling stories from all walks of life.

The Snubs

Of course, no Oscars shortlist would be complete without a few snubs. And this year, there are a few notable absentees.
The biggest snub is undoubtedly "Dune," which was considered a frontrunner for Best Picture. But, despite receiving 10 nominations, the film was left out of the Best Picture race.
Another snube is "The Tragedy of Macbeth," which stars Denzel Washington as the titular Scottish king. The film received three nominations, but was snubbed for Best Picture and Best Director.

The Surprises

There are also a few surprises on this year's Oscars shortlist. The biggest surprise is the inclusion of "Drive My Car," a Japanese film that has been praised by critics and audiences alike. The film is nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Another surprise is the inclusion of "Belfast," which was not expected to be a major contender for Best Picture. But, the film's strong performances and heartwarming story have resonated with voters.

What's Next?

The Academy Awards will be held on March 12, 2023, and we can't wait to see who takes home the coveted golden statuettes. But, no matter who wins, this year's Oscars shortlist is a reminder that the art of filmmaking is alive and well.