Reel Corner - February 2025
The Buzz on Awards' Season
February 2025 Issue
Reel Corner by Donne Paine
The Buzz on Awards' Season
As the awards’ season heats up, the excitement surrounding recent film releases is palpable. With the Golden Globes just behind us, the competition is fierce, and audiences are buzzing about standout performances and compelling narratives. The Brutalist, featuring a captivating performance by Adrien Brody, has emerged as a frontrunner, taking home the Golden Globe for Best Drama and Brody for Best Actor. Demi Moore’s portrayal in The Substance has earned her the Golden Globe title of Best Actress, while Zoe Saldana in Emilia Pérez snagged Best Supporting Actress and Kieran Culkin in A Real Pain won Best Supporting Actor.
Despite the somber backdrop of the devastating fires in California delaying the Oscar nominations, the anticipation for the Academy Awards nominations remains high. It is a bittersweet moment as we reflect on the tragedy while celebrating the artistry that cinema offers. As we look ahead, films like Conclave, Nickel Boys, Wicked, and Anora are likely to make waves during nominations, each bringing unique stories and powerful performances to the forefront.
I am particularly hopeful for Emilia Pérez and Six Triple Eight to join the ranks of recognized films this season. Both projects have generated buzz for their innovative storytelling and the emotional resonance they carry. As the industry navigates through challenges, it is films like these that shine a light on the human experience that often resonates the most with audiences and critics alike.
The Six Triple Eight
Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian | Directed by Tyler Perry
This film shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of women of color in the 1940s. Tasked with sorting through mail for soldiers in Europe, these women navigate a complex world of duty and identity. Accompanied by the hauntingly beautiful song “The Journey” by H.E.R., this film is poised to make waves during awards season, particularly in the categories of Best Picture and Original Score.
Emilia Pérez
Zoe Soldana, Selena Gomez, Karla Sofía Gascón | Directed by Jacques Audiard
This emotional film is a portrayal of a tormented drug lord seeking to transition his identity. Set in Mexico, Emilia Pérez has earned accolades, including a Golden Globe for Best supporting Actress in a Drama. The film blends serious themes with choreographed musical numbers, creating a unique viewing experience. While the musical elements may feel somewhat disjointed from the narrative, Saldana’s performance, alongside Selena Gomez’s, is undeniably compelling.
Anora
Mikey Madison, Yura Borisov | Directed by Sean Baker
Anora is unapologetically explicit. The erotic scenes are plentiful and graphic, which may not appeal to all audiences. Overall, Anora is a bold and daring film that challenges conventional storytelling. While it may not deliver the fairy tale ending one might expect from a Cinderella tale, it offers a raw and honest look at the complexities of love and ambition in a world where desire often collides with reality. If you are open to a provocative cinematic experience that strays far from the traditional romantic comedy formula, Anora might just be worth a watch.
The Last Showgirl
Pamela Anderson, Brenda Song, Jamie Lee Curtis | Directed by Gia Coppola
Pamela Anderson shines as an aging Vegas Razzle Dazzle showgirl, embodying the struggle of a woman who has dedicated her life to the stage, sacrificing personal happiness for her career. Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a standout performance as an aging cocktail waitress grappling with a gambling addiction. Curtis brings a captivating energy to her role, providing a perfect counterbalance to Anderson’s more subdued portrayal. “Beautiful That Way,” by Miley Cyrus, ends the film and emotionally encapsulates the themes of loss and redemption. The Last Showgirl is a film that, despite its editing flaws, offers a compelling exploration of aging, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams.
SAVE THE DATE:
Feb 16: BAFTA British Film Awards
Feb 23: SAG Awards
Mar 2: 97th Academy Awards
Whether you are a fan of drama, music, or biopics, there is something here for everyone. Grab your popcorn and enjoy the show!
References: www.Imdb.com; www.rogerebert.com
Donne Paine, film enthusiast, once lived around the corner from the Orson Wells Theater in Cambridge, Massachu-setts, where her strong interest in films, especially independent ones, began. Supporter of the arts, especially films, she has traveled to local and national film festivals including Sundance, Toronto and Tribeca. There is nothing like seeing a film on the big screen. She encourages film goers to support Hilton Head local theaters, Park Plaza Theater and Northridge. To support her habit of frequent movie going, Donne is a vaccine medicine nurse consultant and also the author of 4 Interview Pillars available on Amazon. See you at the movies!