And for my final acting category: the actresses in lead roles. I am very disappointed that this category does not include Lupita Nyong’o and Awkwafina. I am upset that we pretty much knew who was going to win months ago and the Academy did not even make the effort to seek out different performances. Oh well, I guess it is useless to care about the Oscars because you are always bound to end up disappointed.
5. Cynthia Erivo, Harriett
This film was not talked about, it was not that well received, Cynthia Erivo was not really mentioned in any awards conversations. And while I think her acting is good, it does feel like a slap in the face that in a year of some incredible performances by actresses of color the only one that gets acknowledged is that of a black woman playing a slave.
4. Charlize Theron, Bombshell
As I said before, when it comes to Bombshell I mostly have negative things to say. But Charlize delivers, I guess it took a lot of patience to play this particular person. She does a good job in the film.
3. Renée Zellweger, Judy
I am torn on this one. Renée Zellweger is going to win and I did find her portrayal of Judy Garland touching and interesting. But also I am tired of an almost automatic process of rewarding actors for playing real people. Of course it is hard but I almost feel like what Hollywood appreciates these days is the ability to do impressions rather than acting.
2. Saoirse Ronan, Little Women
I actually almost put Saoirse last because FLORENCE PUGH stood out so much to me in the film. But I have to be honest, Saoirse deserved this nomination and my love if only for that one scene with her mother that broke my heart in the most wonderful way.
1. Scarlett Johansson, Marriage Story
I have said that so many times, how much Marriage Story means to me. And while I have been mostly frustrated with Johansson in recent years, she does something absolutely magical in the film. There are certain moments, certain expressions she makes that come back to me time and time again. This is a wonderful character creation and beautiful display of masterful acting.
Swingin' at the Seance 