In the midst of all the uncertainties and ever-changing possibilities of the Oscars, one movie stands out as the current favorite for the top prize: “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”
Oscars: Everything Everywhere All at Once
This sci-fi comedy, which premiered at South by Southwest a year ago and opened in limited release in March 2022, has surpassed expectations and has captured the hearts of many. Despite not being a typical Oscar contender, “Everything Everywhere” has garnered support from industry professionals and audiences alike.
The film tells the story of a middle-aged Chinese American woman who runs a laundromat and discovers the ability to jump between parallel universes. The quirky and heartwarming tale has the spectacle of a superhero blockbuster and the idiosyncratic style of an indie dramedy, but at its core, it's a story about family, love, and finding one's purpose. It's a refreshing departure from the usual Oscar bait that often involves heavy drama and political messaging.
But why has “Everything Everywhere” stood out amidst the fierce competition? For one, people simply enjoy the movie. The uplifting ending and feel-good story of a woman finding her way in life resonates with audiences, especially during these uncertain times. The film's sentimental family story is a contrast to the colder and more ambiguous themes of some of the other nominees, such as “Tár.” Additionally, the film speaks to deeper anxieties within the industry. Hollywood has become increasingly divided between blockbuster sequels and indies, and the mid-budget studio film, which typically thrives during awards season, has all but disappeared.
Despite its unlikely rise to front-runner status, “Everything Everywhere” has earned critical acclaim and a quadruple win from various guilds. It's also well-positioned for the Best Picture award due to the ranked-choice ballot, which allows voters to select a second-choice pick. However, as with any Oscar race, the outcome is unpredictable, and anything can happen on the big night.
Conclusion:
In an alternative universe, a different movie could take home the top prize, whether it's “The Fabelmans,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” or “The Woman King.” But in this universe, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” is the dominant front-runner for Best Picture, and its heartwarming story has captured the attention of many. Whether it wins or not, the film's success is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on audiences.
