Here. We. Go.
If Labor Day is just around the corner that means awards season is about to push the pretenders to the side and start getting real. That’s one reason this pundit is happy to be launching Awards Campaign on The Playlist just in time for the always-influential Telluride Film Festival. You know, the festival that features actual Academy members watching movies (as opposed to just walking red carpets) and has screened the Best Picture winner seven out of the last eight years?
Yes, we’re headed to the mountains of Colorado where cinephiles who have saved up like fanboys guaranteed a Robert Downey Jr. appearance at Comic-Con and notable members of the 1% club will discuss some of the most anticipated movie premieres of the year before descending into group panic over the prospect of Donald Trump winning the presidency (I’m predicting the flip in conversation will occur sometime Sunday morning, bets anyone?). Based on the slate at Venice and Toronto’s premiere “categories” we’re expecting the debuts of “Bleed For This,” “Moonlight” and “Una” among others, and the first North American screenings of “Arrival” and the already raved about “La La Land” (sure it’s great guys, but can we take a beat before giving it the Best Picture and Best Actress trophies?). The Telluride faithful are also expected to get a look at Sundance favorite “Manchester by the Sea” and the movie that really should have won the Palm d’Or at Cannes, “Toni Erdmann.” Look for reviews all through the weekend and a wrap up on what was buzzing and what wasn’t (usually the more interesting takeaway) almost immediately after.
Next up? Toronto where we’ll be on the ground with The Playlist’s own Kevin Jagernauth and Noel Murray. On Awards Campaign you can expect more reviews (‘tis the season), reactions to other potential new Oscar players and thoughts on some familiar titles such as “Loving” and “Birth of a Nation” reintroducing themselves (although obviously, the latter is already on everyone’s radar).
READ MORE: ‘La La Land’ Starring Ryan Gosling & Emma Stone Is An Absolute Triumph
In general, we’re hoping you’ll make AC part of your everyday awards season samplings past the fests. There will be a Contender Countdown column every week, interviews with some of the potential nominees, analysis on breaking awards season controversies er, news, predictions and, oh yeah, a brand new spankin’ podcast. Because, honestly if this beat needs anything it’s another awards podcast. Am I wrong?
Trust, based on the drama of the past eight months alone we’re in for quite a ride.
Keep up with my latest posts and takes by following me on twitter @TheGregoryE.
