The world of Oscar campaigning is often fraught with challenges, and the rules of the Academy are clear: voters must not disclose their choices. Yet, controversies can erupt that threaten to overshadow the films themselves. In 1960, John Wayne took a step behind the camera to recount the 1836 standoff between Texas rebels and the Mexican army, but this historical depiction soon became embroiled in unexpected drama. Fast forward to 2019, and the film Green Book found itself at the heart of a political storm during the awards race. Despite winning three Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor for Mahershala Ali, the film drew heavy criticism for its perceived political undertones.
The 2019 Oscar race saw Green Book embroiled in controversy not just for its content but due to its creators' actions. Co-writer Nick Vallelonga found himself under fire after endorsing a false accusation by Donald Trump regarding New Jersey Muslims cheering on 9/11. Additionally, Viggo Mortensen faced backlash after using the N-word during a screening of the film. These controversies amplified the scrutiny on Green Book, making it a political football with accusations of endorsing torture and allegations of close cooperation with the CIA.
"I did the best I could with the material." – Mahershala Ali
Campaigns have often seen filmmakers and actors issuing apologies in the face of backlash. Peter Farrelly apologized after reports surfaced that he had been revealing himself inappropriately. Similarly, Jacques Audiard and actress Karla Sofía Gascón issued apologies for controversies surrounding their respective works. Gascón's social media feed came under scrutiny when a journalist discovered inflammatory posts, including one describing Islam in derogatory terms.
"My most sincere apologies to all the people who may have felt offended by the ways I express myself in my past, in my present and in my future" – Karla Sofía Gascón
In past campaigns, even historical films like John Wayne's The Alamo were not immune to controversy. The cast member Chill Wills's efforts to rally support for an Oscar win drew criticism from voters who disliked the idea of Alamo fighters being used in such a manner.
"We of the Alamo cast are praying harder – than the real Texans prayed for their lives in the Alamo – for Chill Wills to win the Oscar." – Chill Wills
Prominent figures in Hollywood have also played roles in shaping campaign narratives. In 2003, Harvey Weinstein was at the pinnacle of his influence, orchestrating campaign strategies with precision. Miramax, under his leadership, strategically arranged for Robert Wise to publish a supportive article in the Los Angeles Times, exemplifying how powerhouse individuals could sway perceptions and outcomes.
The intersection of art and politics remains a delicate balance in the film industry. Kathryn Bigelow's The Hurt Locker, which won Best Picture in 2010, managed to navigate these waters successfully, yet each campaign continues to highlight the tension between creative expression and public perception.
By 2023, campaign regulations had evolved to allow A-list celebrities to host screenings, showcasing how tactics adapt over time. However, filmmakers like Jacques Audiard and films like Emilia Pérez still faced criticism for their portrayal of cultural issues, demonstrating that controversies can arise from various aspects of storytelling.