Academy backs Andrea Riseborough’s controversial Oscar nomination

(CNN Spanish) — Andrea Riseborough may not be a name that the average movie buff would like very much. But chances are your favorite actor is in a movie you really like, and he knows who he is. They want me to succeed Oscar.

It’s, apparently, a strange story, called a short-lived independent film starting in October. To Leslie, tells what happens when a single mother wins the lottery and runs out of money. Riseborough played the lead role, Leslie, in a performance that was widely praised by critics One of the best works of his career.

Last week, Riseborough was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress, her first nomination.

But his nomination was in doubt after public pressure from several big Hollywood stars, including Gwyneth Paltrow and Amy Adams. This week, without specifically mentioning Riseborough or To Leslie, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said it was investigating campaign activities this year to ensure no rules were broken. (Contacting Academy members to promote a film or lobbying for an award is prohibited.)

But after announcing a review of Oscar nomination campaigns, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences executive director Bill Kramer released the following statement to CNN on Tuesday:

“Based on concerns raised over the campaign last week To Leslie, the Academy launched a review of the film’s promotional strategies. The Academy has determined that the activity in question does not rise to the level of revoking the film’s nomination. However, we found social media and outreach campaign strategies that caused concern. These tactics are directly addressed to the responsible party.”

Here’s everything you need to know:

To LeslieCritically acclaimed, but not by the general public

Until recently, most Americans had never heard of Do Leslie. Screening in South by Southwest in March, film only It grossed $27,000 at the box office During its limited release.

This month, that changed when some of the biggest names in cinema endorsed the film. Paltrow He praised the film on InstagramRiseborough said he wanted to win every prize, including “everything yet to be discovered”.

Adams arranged a conversation with Riseborough and director Michael Morris rated the movie “Unbelievable, incredible cinematography”.

Kate Winslet, Jennifer Aniston, Edward Norton and Charlize Theron have also supported the film in various ways, either through screenings or moderated discussions.

In this case, on Twitter, other actors have posted Almost identical reports He praised the film, calling it “a small film with a giant heart”. Some have compared it to a copy paste job.

The Riseborough campaign is nothing new

Although a celebrity-endorsed campaign is not necessarily a grassroots campaign, Riseborough et To Leslie resembles one. It’s rare for a celebrity to endorse a film they didn’t star in in this way, making Riseborough’s rapid rise unique.

But this isn’t the first time an actor has publicly attempted to win an Oscar. A decade ago, actress Melissa Leo hosted her own photo shoot and ran her own “Your Opinion” commercials. Leo was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role at the time The Fighter Year 2010.

“This whole awards process is, to some extent, about adultery.” Announced The New York Times In 2011. Received the Leo Award.

Business people have pointed out Asking for votes is often done to level the playing field and, in this case, draw attention to a lesser-known, small-budget film. The difference now lies in social networks, which make this impulse public rather than behind closed doors.

However, not all actors have Riseborough’s connections. Critics of the recommendations include Viola Davis (Woman is king) and Daniel Detwyler (up to), two black actresses who were considered favorites were not nominated for the award. (Both films drew huge audiences at the box office.)

The problem of diversity in the academy has been around for a long time. Discussion and analysis. And although Riseborough is not guilty murmuring, Some have pointed out The campaign behind her proves just how good it is to have famous white friends.

The Academy’s investigation gives something to talk about

On Friday, the Academy announced a “review of campaign practices surrounding this year’s nominees,” according to a report obtained by CNN. The Academy did not specifically mention Riseborough or the celebrity pressure for her nomination. It later turned out that it was about that case.

Christina Ricci stars in the Emmy-nominated series Yellow jacketsIn a since-deleted Instagram post, it called the academy’s decision to review its actions “very backwards.”

“The “surprise nomination” (not that tons of money was spent to land this actress) by the investigation seems hilarious,” he wrote. As per the deadline. “So, only propagandistic films and actors deserve recognition? It seems elitist and exclusive.”

Ever been cancelled? There is precedent: In 2014, composer Bruce Broughton was nominated for an Oscar for the title song. Alone is not alone yet Y He was later disqualified For his campaign.

Regardless of the celebrity endorsement, Riseborough faces stiff competition from the likes of Michelle Yeoh.Everywhere and everything at once) and Cate Blanchett (Tar)

One thing’s for sure: you’ll need more popcorn.