Film Academy feels backlash over Oscar snubs: 'Barbie' creator Greta Gerwig left out, while 'Ken' Ryan Gosling beams with a double nomination
The major film awards have been decided. Among the most frequently nominated films, "Oppenheimer" and "Barbie" hold the lead spots. This is hardly a surprise as both productions have dominated worldwide cinemas and achieved box office success. Yet, controversy wasn't absent - Ryan Gosling, known as "Just Ken", received two nominations. As for the award, neither Barbie (Margot Robbie) nor the film's creator (Greta Gerwig) are seen as having a chance.
10:11 PM EST, January 24, 2024
Ryan Gosling speaks on the Film Academy's decision
Ryan Gosling bagged nominations in two categories: best supporting actor and best song for the track "I'm just Ken". Gosling reacted to the nominations on his stylist, Mark Avery's Instagram. The actor expressed: "I'm incredibly honored to be nominated by my colleagues alongside such remarkable artists, particularly in a year packed with wonderful movies. I never thought I would say this, but I beam with pride that my nomination is for the role of Ken, a plastic doll."
Gosling underscored the regrettable absence of Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig in the nominations: "However, Ken cannot exist without Barbie, and the 'Barbie' film wouldn't exist without Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie. These two individuals are to be credited for this film, which has made history and gained worldwide appreciation. Any recognition wouldn't have been possible without the talent, determination, and genius of the film crew. To say that I'm disappointed about their exclusion from the relevant categories is an understatement. Still, a few soulless, scantily clad, albeit genitalia-free dolls created something historical that made us laugh, broke hearts, influenced culture and made an impact. Their work should receive due recognition, along with the other nominees who equally deserve acknowledgment."
Ryan Gosling also extended his congratulations to America Ferrera - the actor who nabbed a nomination for the best supporting role in "Barbie", where she portrayed Gloria. "With that said, I am elated by the nominations for America Ferrera and the other brilliant artists who contributed their talent to the creation of this groundbreaking movie."
Film Academy faces criticism from Internet users
A significant number of Internet users on Platform X criticize the Film Academy. Michael commented: "Ken's nomination instead of Barbie's portrays a fitting example of a story about a man discovering the power of patriarchy in the Real World." Several users pointed out that the Film Academy ironically reinforced the movie's core message by excluding Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig from the nominations. It seems that no matter how much a woman contributes, a man tends to receive appreciation sooner.
Some are drawing parallels between the Oscar nominations and Taylor Swift's song "The Man". The song features lyrics such as "I'm so sick of running as fast as I can. Wondering if I'd get there sooner if I was a man."
Jonathan posted on Platform X: "I don't place much importance on award ceremonies, but Ryan Gosling receiving a nomination while Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig are overlooked seems to mirror what happens in the 'Barbie' movie, further emphasizing its point". Meanwhile, Melania wrote: "The Oscars have just ironically re-enacted the plot of the 'Barbie' film."
Nomination for best film, but not best director
The lack of a nomination for Greta Gerwig came as a surprise. "Barbie" is nominated for best film, which typically implies a nomination for the director as well. However, it appears that the Film Academy has other plans. Altogether, "Barbie" could win seven statuettes: for best film, best supporting actors (for actor and actress), best costumes, best set design, best-adapted screenplay, and best song. In the last category, two songs from "Barbie" will rival each other - the satirical "I'm just Ken" and "What was I made for?" performed by Billie Eilish.
