The race for this year’s Oscars is more intriguing than ever. Beyond the commercial phenomenon that was Barbie, 2023 is proving to be a very compelling year in terms of quality. The Venice Film Festival made it clear with some films like “Poor Things” and “The Killer,” but there are two directors who want to take home the statuette this year above the rest: Christopher Nolan and Martin Scorsese.
Despite their obvious differences, both directors have been rather neglected by the Academy for years. Nolan has hardly been recognized for becoming one of the leading directors of the 21st century, and Scorsese had to wait too long to be praised as the masterful author that he is. This year, both have released major films that could sweep the Oscars: “Oppenheimer” and “The Moon Killers.” But which film has a better chance of succeeding?
Two films, hundreds of possibilities
While both films have the favor of the public and seem to have many chances in different categories, the competition between “Oppenheimer” and “The Moon Killers” is evident. Let’s look at the best aspects of each and where they might succeed.
As for “Oppenheimer,” there is a key category in which it could stand out: Best Director. Nolan has been overlooked for too many years, despite delivering epic films like “Dunkirk” and “Interstellar,” and it’s certainly time for him to be recognized for what he is. With “Oppenheimer,” he has crafted a top-tier auteur work that blends with a necessary biography for the spirit of the United States. And if there’s ever a moment to reflect on the past given the current situation in Gaza, it is now.
Perhaps, precisely because of this critical view of U.S. politics, this might distance “Oppenheimer” from its chances. But it would undoubtedly be the perfect film to praise Nolan as he deserves. And not just him. It’s clear that Cillian Murphy will compete for Best Leading Actor, although it’s not very clear if he will succeed. And someone who is more likely to take home the award is Robert Downey Jr. for Best Supporting Actor.
On the other hand, another category where it could work perfectly, beyond the technical ones – production design, sound editing, and a few more are sure bets – is Best Adapted Screenplay. If it competes in this category, it will have only one other major competitor. Precisely, “The Moon Killers.“
But what about Scorsese’s film? Once again, we are faced with an epic film of enormous proportions. But will the Academy take notice of it? The director of “The Wolf of Wall Street” is often the great forgotten one, despite making films that leave a lasting mark on entire generations. Despite being nominated 10 times for Best Director, he has won only once, in 2007 with “The Departed.” And it doesn’t seem like it will go better for him this time, even though he deserves it.
On the other hand, “The Moon Killers” has an almost guaranteed award: Lily Gladstone for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance is one of the best in the film, and the story behind it is so necessary that it’s hard to believe the Academy will turn a blind eye to it.
Someone who isn’t so sure about winning is Leonardo DiCaprio. Although it’s been leaked that the role was practically tailor-made for him to win the Oscar, and despite everyone saying he’s incredible in the film, he faces tough competition to secure the Oscar. Furthermore, he’ll be up against Cillian Murphy, who isn’t a favorite but has garnered more attention in recent months.
Whatever the case, both films will embark on a highly interesting race to claim the title of the best film of the year. Scorsese and Nolan, hand in hand, will compete alongside many other directors – keep an eye on the great Yorgos Lanthimos – for the ultimate recognition.
