In the aftermath of Tuesday’s Oscar nominations announcement, it appears that the much-talked-about film “Barbie,” the highest-grossing movie of 2023, has faced notable exclusions from key categories. Greta Gerwig, the director behind the film, was noticeably absent from the Best Director category, causing disappointment among fans who feel she was unjustly overlooked. Margot Robbie, despite earning nominations from the Golden Globes and the SAG Awards, did not secure a spot in the Best Actress category.
The absence of Gerwig’s nomination for Best Director, especially considering “Barbie” as the sole $1 billion movie directed by a woman, has stirred discussions online. Despite this setback, “Barbie” managed to secure eight nominations, including nods for America Ferrera in the Supporting Actress category and Ryan Gosling for Best Actor. However, categories like Best Cinematography and Hair/Makeup did not receive expected nominations, with Robbie’s extensive collection of 30 lipsticks and 48 wigs not earning a nod.
While the surprising snubs have raised eyebrows, there is a silver lining for “Barbie” as it remains in contention for Best Picture. Robbie, who co-produced the film, retains her chance at an Academy Award. Additionally, Greta Gerwig is up for Best Adapted Screenplay, sharing the nomination with her husband and co-writer, Noah Baumbach.
The Academy’s decision to classify “Barbie” as an adapted screenplay rather than an original has left some fans puzzled, drawing criticism from writer/director Judd Apatow. Apatow took to Twitter, stating, “It’s insulting to the writers to say they were working off of existing material. There was no existing material or story. There was a clear box.”
Online, netizens have expressed their disappointment and accused the Academy of being out of touch and biased. One fan tweeted, “Regardless of your feelings towards Barbie as a film, how do you not even acknowledge the women who made it exist?” Another remarked, “Ken getting more nominations for the Barbie movie than Barbie herself.”
Despite the Oscars controversy, “Barbie” has undeniably resonated with audiences, achieving groundbreaking success at the box office and receiving positive acclaim. As the film’s impact extends beyond the awards season, its relevance and influence are poised to endure. The Academy Awards are scheduled to air on March 10, providing a platform for further reflection on the recognition and representation of films that capture the hearts of viewers.
