The 2023 Academy Awards Are Already Exciting
Although we have not even reached the end of 2022 yet, it would appear that the race for Best Actor at the Oscars has begun. The two names that have been mentioned the most in the past few weeks are Brendan Fraser and Colin Farrell. Fraser, undoubtedly looking to capitalize upon his massive comeback, stars in a Darren Aronofsky film called “The Whale”. Farrell, meanwhile, plays the lead character in Martin McDonagh’s “The Banshees of Inisherin”.
The Rock Puts His Muscle Behind Fraser
It’s fairly unusual for actors to publicly announce support for another actor when it comes to the Oscars. After all, they run the risk of alienating other potential co-workers or friends. But it would appear that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson does not fear any backlash. Although “The Whale” hasn’t even officially been released yet, Johnson has voiced his support for former co-star Fraser, with whom he worked on “The Mummy” franchise a couple of decades ago.
The Buzz Started at the Venice Film Festival
Over in Italy last month, audiences had the chance to view both “The Whale” and “Banshees of Inisherin” for the first time. Both films received rousing standing ovations from viewers, and the race was on. It would appear that both actors are already campaigning as well. Farrell attended a New York screening with a Q&A and Fraser will be doing the same at the Writers Guild in Beverly Hills this weekend.
A Different Vibe from Last Year
Already, it appears that the energy will be different at the next Academy Awards ceremony. For one, Will Smith will not be in attendance. After he slapped presenter Chris Rock and then won the Oscar at last year’s jaw-dropping ceremony, Smith was banned from attending Oscar events for a period of 10 years. Normally, it is customary for the prior year’s Best Actor to present the Best Actress award, but it would seem that producers will have to find a replacement this year.
