How Andrea Riseborough Crashed the Best Actress Oscar Race

[@TonyWhiteCreates]

What an amazingly well-rounded video! Thank you so much for not ignoring the bias against black actresses that are deserving, and naming two actresses who could have used the push!! MEANWHILE, giving Andrea her flowers!!!!

[@thetriplethreat3]

That’s my boy Brian!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thank you!! Your kind words mean a lot!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Aww ❤️❤️❤️

[@marioprevil1139]

yes, they must have something agains black person, that is the ONLY explanation.

[@TonyWhiteCreates]

@@marioprevil1139 wow, it’s almost like I never said that in my comment! And any added meaning oh this nature is your own projection 😊

[@kentann]

After watching To Leslie, I must admit Andrea Riseborough deserves the nomination. It was a knockout indeed.

[@TheAwardsContender]

She was fantastic!

[@geoffnelson6756]

I have been a fan of Riseborough for many years, when I heard that she had 'fraudulently' gatecrashed the Oscar nominations, i though I would hold judgement till I had seen the film, pleased to see positive responses although I still haven't seen it. Sounds like the issue was it was small, low funded movie under the radar.

[@binaryvoid0101]

Although Andrea's performance was good as it carried the entire film, her character wasn't anything we haven't seen before. Hollywood has been cosplaying homeless drug addicts since forever. In my opinion, Daniel Deadwyler, Viola Davis, and Mia Goth took greater emotional risks for characters that were frankly more interesting and original than Leslie. 1. Michelle Yeoh [EEAAO] 2. Cate Blanchett [Tár] 3. Daniel Deadwyler [Till] 4. Viola Davis [The Woman King] 5. Mia Goth [Pearl] 6. Andrea Riseborough [To Leslie]

[@davy209]

I really like Riseborough’s performance in To Leslie, and most deserving of an Oscar nomination, but I was over sold a bit when celebrities like Kate Winslet calling it the best performance of all time. Although Riseborough’s performance is very good, it doesn’t really bring anything new for that particular role (someone struggling with addiction) that we’ve already seen so many times before. It felt very similar to Anne Hathaway’s performance in Rachael Getting Married. I think any well accomplished actress would have given a very similar performance in comparison to Riseborough’s. Amy Adams would have brought out either the same or very similar performance for the same role, that’s just me saying.

[@johnmarengo3988]

@@binaryvoid0101 Andrea deserved the oscar, over the rest, hands down. Why do some pick out certain types of characters or stories and say 'its been done before. So what? Btw, think she was an alcoholic, not a drug addict. I remember Barry Levinson made a movie called The Humbling with Al Pacino, an over the hill actor. I liked it, thought it was good, and Pacino doing a bit of humorous role. It came out the same year as Birdman, so critics trashed it not on quality but that like birdman it was an aged actor, even tho that was the only similarity. Levinson said 'so two movies about an old actor is too much, but we can see dozens of action, car crash, action movies, or gangster movies, same romance stories. Thats the same with now Scorsese announced he wants to make a movie about Jesus. Everyone is saying 'why....he already made last temptation....'. So 2 films about christ, but like 6 or 7 mobster movies and no one thinks twice about it. I wouldn't say there was more movies about alcoholics or drug addicts than romance, martial arts, marvel, comedy, action, suspense type films that arent' that much different.

[@trao1938]

The real story here isn't that Riseborough 'stole' anyone's place. The real story is that a grassroots campaign spread the word about a phenomenal performance, which lead to Riseborough getting an Oscar nomination and all the recognition she deserves. The real story is that these actors SHOULDN'T have had to be doing the job movie critics are supposed to be doing. This movie has been around almost a year. WHERE were all the critics (and wannabee critics) that should've been giving it praise and attention? Thirty years ago (pre-internet) critics would've been raving about a performance like this. Back then, that is what we relied upon movie reviewers to do; to make us aware of the films we weren't hearing about. After the Osc. noms came out I checked KZbin for reviews and only found one. That's it. Because in this age of online movie vlogging, it's not about discovering great hidden cinematic gems. It's all about # of subscribers and clicking the LIKE button, so why waste time on an obscure film if you can generate more viewers by covering the same mainstream crap everyone else does. Movie critics have become so self-gratifying and lazy when it comes to doing their jobs. But rather than asking why so many critics dropped the ball on covering this movie, people instead want to blame actors for promoting a film "nobody's ever heard about."

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@CumpasFilms]

why is it considered ethical if a big studio throws millions into an Oscar campaign, and unethical for your fellow actors to raise awareness of a spectacular performance???

[@fmtalks1386]

Exactly! The double-standard is b.s. They're mad because big studio money/corporate dollars no longer guarantees nomination or win.

[@perryjones7771]

Not gonna lie when I was watching “Till” and Danielle it felt like I was watching a young Viola on the cusps of GREATNESS!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Such a great performance!

[@claudiobdv5166]

The thing about this situation is that it is obvious that the academy members do not watch enough movies, at least in the time given to give their votes. How many amazing performances and movies might have been dismissed only because they were not seen by those who vote. I know that the Oscars work ok campaigning and this year has been very obvious, but the only way to change these controversies is to change the rules and make sure that, in order to vote, you have seen as many films as possible. I know it may sound impossible, but I think that it should be the first filter for any academy member.

[@Awardshq]

That's never gonna happen. Unless you have small committees like the BAFTAS.

[@gabrielcastaneda9700]

You also have actress like tang Wei in decision to leave The actress in broker

[@TheAwardsContender]

Good point!

[@davy209]

Both the directors of Till and The Woman King have openly admitted on how hard it was to convince Oscar voters to actually watch their movies. Of the voters who actually watched their movies, expressed how much much they enjoyed both Till and The Woman King, but for every Oscar voter how watched their movie, unfortunately there were so many who just chose not to watch it. I can understand the frustration with the directors of both Till and The Woman King, how can their films be judged on its merits if so many members have chosen not to give it a chance to at least be viewed first before judging. Watching all these movies should be an obligation for every Academy member, filmmakers shouldn’t have to struggle this much just to get their movies seen by voters. Just my opinion on it.

[@Awardshq]

@davy209 how exactly would they know that? The films have screenings but they academy has their voter portal where voters can watch online. So that's a BS excuse.

[@janecob5995]

I have watched Be Kind Rewind and gotten some insight to Sally Kirkland's Oscar campaign. Where her small studio couldn't afford a for your consideration push. Also, Bogarts 'campaigning tactics to win for an Oscar for the African Queen. I am sure there are more incidences. I am not upset when talent fights for themself. I am more upset with studio's using their money to fly voters to screenings or influence with gifts, or in the case of a Harvey Weinstein, intimidate and bully.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Very true, thanks for watching!

[@binaryvoid0101]

I feel bad for Danielle Deadwyler. Imagine being an actor of color playing by the rules all your career just to have your solid Oscar momentum crushed by a herd of rich white women saying the rules don't actually matter while implying that their candidate (a rich white British woman with a well-connected team) is an underdog subverting the Hollywood system.

[@benhaynes4409]

Right on! Someone got in without spending millions in charming voters and we’re supposed to be outraged? If movies are good they shouldn’t need to campaign so much and get in on merit

[@bandgeeksrul]

I so badly wish Deadwyler was in this lineup. I’ve been wanting for a while for the academy to expand their acting categories to 6-8 especially for years like this when the competition is sooo strong and so many worthy options deserve to be recognized.

[@donna25871]

And then what happens in the years when you’re struggling to get five strong performances (which happens more often than not)? #keepitatfive

[@ZoraNH.dusttracks1891]

Nah keep it at 5. Increasing it will not keep someone from getting left out…everyone can’t get nominated. There will always be outrage. No one even knows for sure was next in line this time around. People are just guessing based on subjective views.

[@vanoscartabaloc]

5 is okay since only 1 will be declared the winner after all.

[@SoulKnightKing]

I mean 5 nominees is what keeps it prestigious. Otherwise its a participation trophy

[@mr29]

I think 6 would be perfect. That is what The Emmys and The Baftas do.

[@pinoymusikaatbp.7498]

I've watched many Oscar winning performances in the past and I honestly feel, Andrea Riseborough's magnificent performance in a small film, To Leslie, should be in the level of these great award winning actresses. I hope many academy members will watch the film and give recognition to this phenomenal actress.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Same!! She’s great in the film!

[@khongmaithikhog5624]

@@TheAwardsContender i think it's between Cate and Michelle

[@carolineglass4654]

Having worked with her twice in film, she's a brilliant Actress, hard-working and deserves to win. Well done Andrea!

[@TheAwardsContender]

You’ve worked with her, that’s awesome!!

[@marioprevil1139]

@@TheAwardsContender on the other hand, why do you hate her so much.

[@winglee1976]

I’ve worked with her as her Costume Fitter in the indie film The Kindness of Strangers. She’s a great actress, I am happy for her nomination even though it happened in a surprise and unexpected way.

[@davy209]

Claiming that black actresses were locks to get nominated so they don’t have to vote for them was sketchy as fuck!

[@MozzieMutant]

It really was they knew what they were doing

[@joymartin4640]

@@MozzieMutant Yep, the Academy needs to suspend her for a year at the LEAST.

[@ikexbankai]

More than sketchy. I’ll say racist and unconscious bias. Nothing is “locked” for black people in this country

[@Gavin48]

She mentioned Cate and Yeoh in that post as well. Plus Frances Fisher did vote for Viola and lady from Till

[@davy209]

Name dropping other actors when campaigning is forbidden by academy rules. It’s a serious violation of ethics and it’s unfair to the the other actors in competition.

[@SoulKnightKing]

Also let's be real. Jennifer Hudson gave an Oscar winning performance in a flashy biopic last year in Respect. (Weak film, incredible performance) She even got into SAG over Stewart. Actors knew that Hudson did something special. However how she gave an Oscar winning performance but got zero buzz all season was astounding. Even when she made SAG, no one was surprised. Why? Because they knew her performance was worthy. But Hudson already had an Oscar so they didn't need to highlight her over Film Twitters/ Critic's Darling Kristen Stewart Last year. Ignore the fact that Gaga, Kidman, and Coleman were all also Academy Award winners, but Hudson didn't need buzz because she has her Oscar. The narrative quickly became after SAG "I cannot believe Stewart missed". Not one critic or actor or tweet was even shocked about Hudson but I saw what felt like an intentional effort but critics and Film Twitter to just ignore Hudson, she had SAG? Cool. Let's not even put her in our top 10 predictions list. This was just last year. She was also up for Best Original Song and scored the Grammy and Golden Globe nomination, and she couldn't even get the nomination there. So Academy Award winner Hudson woke up last year to Nominations morning seeing she missed 2 potential Oscar Nominations and THERE WAS ZERO BACKLASH last year. So getting upset over Deadwyler, but ignoring Hudson last year for me is beyond telling for where the industry and critics true priorities lie.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Good point, Hudson was incredible!!

[@jesseseale2558]

It’s ok though. Why? JHud is an EGOT recipient and has her own talk show that currently in its 2nd season. Sometimes bigger things come unexpectedly without any notice

[@SoulKnightKing]

I still disagree on two things. 1. Cinematography snub for ASC nominees: Batman and Frontrunner Top Gun was the biggest shockers of the nominations. Riseborough is an easy #2 2. I still think that Viola Davis was way ahead of Deadwyler as the film had performed well across the other precursors, and personally I still think Davis did a better performance. However, I still can't understand how 99% rating box office hit with powerhouse Ensemble led by Legendary Viola Davis with the only physical transformation of a Lead Actress. Plus stellar stuntwork, editing, sublime costumes, production design, and hair. Oh and that stellar score. I don't understand how Woman King got 0 nominations.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Same, The Woman King should’ve received multiple nominations!

[@davy209]

I think the real problem was that enough Oscar voters chose not to see The Woman King or Till. Both the directors of both movies have admitted in an interview on how much of a struggle it was for them just to convince Academy members just to see their movies. Of those who actually took the time to watch either or both The Woman King and Till all expressed how much they loved their respective films, but for every member who watched their films, there was just too many members who chose not to watch to their films during awards season unfortunately. I completely understand the frustration from both directors as it seems hugely unfair for their movies to be judged based solely on its merits if so many Academy voters just chose not to give their movies a chance just to be seen first before judging it. There’s definitely a subconscious bias against movies based on women of color being the main protagonist and if the role is not apart of the discussion of actually winning, then it would most likely be ignored entirely unfortunately. There should be an obligation for every Academy member to watch as many movies as they can not the other way around. Just my opinion on the matter.

[@lytaquiroz1524]

Her nominations rubs me in the wrong way Many who watch many independient movies throught the year know good performances are always there, but why was this different is the problem. Famous friends, thats just it I think by now you should do a "WOC and the elusive lead actress Oscar", cause thats the real question

[@Tolstoy111]

Viola Davis lacks famous friends? She's a superstar.

[@marcor7044]

EXACTLY! There have been many movies like To Leslie that were much more well known but still didn´t get noticed by the Academy.

[@MouhamadouBDiagne]

@@Tolstoy111 And those superstar friends chose to put their weight behind a little known white actress in a film no one saw instead of her. That's literally how racism works.

[@Tolstoy111]

@@MouhamadouBDiagne Huh? Viola has won an Oscar and has been nominated multiple times. She is not OWED a nomination. Do you think the peers who had voted for her numerous times in the past just randomly became racist?

[@MouhamadouBDiagne]

@@Tolstoy111 Every talented and accomplished black woman actress is owed a best actress oscar considering only ONE NON WHITE WOMAN has won in 95 years.

[@rhythmoriented]

Unfortunately, every year in every category great performances miss the cut. That’s the nature of The Oscars in particular and awards bodies in general. While I strongly believe that Cate Blanchett’s performance is the best of any male/female/lead/supporting actor this year, MANY performances have fortunately been propped up in various ways: feature stories on KZbin and television shows, interviews, and just the honor of being part of a popular or well-loved film. The joy of art extends far beyond the award season, and those who feel snubbed but truly are great stand the test of time.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Agreed!!

[@davy209]

I admit, even though I did not like Tar, Cate Blanchett’s performance is nothing short of spectacular and the only thing about the movie.

[@SilambarasuSivakurunathan]

Love how people just glossed over the monumental nomination Michelle Yeoh got because two black actresses didn't get in!

[@itsbeyondme5560]

She is Asian. Not black

[@SilambarasuSivakurunathan]

@It's BeYoND mE so the first asian-identifying actress being nominated in the category after almost 9 decades doesn't matter because black actresses were unfortunately not?

[@itsbeyondme5560]

@@SilambarasuSivakurunathan people love Asians but not black people. We are still suffering from society, but not the asians

[@tfaddict8254]

@@SilambarasuSivakurunathan Merle Oberon was nominated in 1938... Michelle Yeoh is NOT the first Asian to be nominated for an Oscar!!!! They concealed Merle's Eurasian heritage for the sake of her career.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yeoh for the win!

[@ikexbankai]

No one is saying her performance isn’t worthy. She isn’t worthy of her nomination because her campaign broke the rules. Many actors are deserving BUT only 5 get them. Only 5 of many deserving thus why there’s campaign rules. And her campaign broke the rules. There’s no way she didn’t know what was being done in her name by the director and wife of the director of her movie. There’s just no damn way

[@rehypotehcation3682]

Proof? Or do you mean the rule that black women shod be disproportionately represented or their will be tantrums?

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@Han-fm7mo]

The obvious issue to me is Oscar voters not watching POC led movies. I find it hard to believe you can watch Till and not nominate Deadwyler. I’m over the moon about Brian T Henry getting in, but I’ve seen people use that to validate the Academy not having bias but in reality would his performance have been seen without JLaw in that film? If it had a black female lead would they have bothered? I doubt it.

[@ianyoung6881]

When you wrote JLaw I thought you meant Jude Law.

[@mamadouaziza2536]

U do realize that there are Black Academy members too? Its always been an issue if not enough member see your performance, you will not be nominated regardless of what the public wants and what the critics think...

[@Han-fm7mo]

​@@mamadouaziza2536 I am aware of that, yes. As for your other point, I agree it's always been an issue if not enough people see a performance.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@jaygarcia8508]

So many amazing performances go absolutely unoticed because most low budget films can't afford advertisement. Her performance was incredible & she absolutely deserved her nomination.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Agreed!!

[@davy209]

I really like Riseborough’s performance in To Leslie, and most deserving of an Oscar nomination, but I was over sold a bit when celebrities like Kate Winslet calling it the best performance of all time. Although Riseborough’s performance is very good, it doesn’t really bring anything new for that particular role (someone struggling with addiction) that we’ve already seen so many times before. It felt very similar to Anne Hathaway’s performance in Rachael Getting Married. I think any well accomplished actress would have given a very similar performance in comparison to Riseborough’s. Amy Adams would have brought out either the same or very similar performance for the same role,. That’s just my opinion on it.

[@jaygarcia8508]

@@davy209 I absolutely agree with you. You make a very good point. I absolutely loved Anne Hathaway's performance in Rachel Getting Married & Amy Addams, to me, is the absolute best in any role she takes on.

[@davy209]

My personal picks for Best Actress would be: 1. Michelle Yeoh- EEAAO 2. Cate Blanchett- Tar 3. Danielle Deadwyler- Till 4. Tang Wei- Decision to Leave 5. Andrea Riseborough- To Leslie (Viola Davis was a very close #5, but decided on Riseborough mostly due to screen time as Viola wasn’t the true lead performer in The Woman King (Thusu Mbedu is).

[@jaygarcia8508]

@@davy209 That is a great list of picks. I wouldn't change it 👌🏼

[@MrJoker3571]

I predicted Riseborough in my Lead Actress lineup as a NGNG kind of prediction, not just because a lot of her peers were campaigning for her, but also because out of all of the actors the one I was surprised who was campaigning for her was Edward Norton. The fact that he has a reputation of being hard to work with & he even said in his tweet that he rarely campaigns for anything and was willing to do this for Andrea, I thought, "Maybe she can make it in the lineup?" And then, she made it in...

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@outinsider]

Thank you for naming without exceptionalizing this nomination. I don't think a slip of the tongue is nefarious. The Academy allowed her to keep her nomination, but I wish all those A-listers had that energy around a Black, Brown, Indigenous, Asian, and Pacific Islander produced, directed, and featured actor film. Thank you for naming the progress behind the problem too. BIPOC women have worked harder to get to the stage in the film industry to have some studio backing a campaign as happened with The Woman King and Till. Honestly, I think this year will be mentioned as a motivator for Danielle Deadwyler and Viola Davis in future Oscar campaigns for them, and awarding Michelle Yeoh, though very deserved on her end, doesn't cover the industry problem with women of color.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@davy209]

Call me ignorant, and I don’t mean to offend anyone, but what does BIPOC stand for? Just asking.

[@outinsider]

@@davy209 Black, Indigenous, People of Color

[@davy209]

Got it, thank you for replying back! 🙏🏽

[@outinsider]

@@davy209 You're welcome!

[@nickBLT]

That quote about her not knowing what happened is ridiculous. She knew what happened 100%. She cheated point blank.

[@ikexbankai]

Yeah for her to insult our intelligence like that really piss me of. It makes me not what to watch the movie even though I will. Like of course she knows how it happened. They personally brought on two PR firms and then put social pressure on everyone to vote and talk about her

[@Gavin48]

She didn't cheat. It's just a case of "don't ask don't get". It's not her fault the Academy were lukewarm on Till and Woman King.

[@nickBLT]

No the academy has rules about emails for example. One a week through the academy official channels. Her campaign was one a day through people’s personal connections. Also her campaign mentioned other actors and actively told people not to vote for viola and Danielle because “they were locked and didn’t need the vote” well guess what…

[@fmtalks1386]

@Ike&Ike yeah, because there's never been PR done before and " For Your Consideration" ads make no difference. Lol

[@ikexbankai]

@@Gavin48 what does Till and/or The Woman King have to do with the way her campaign was ran? Not a got damn thing. Her cheating has nothing to do with those two movies

[@donna25871]

Got to admit Whoopi Goldberg may have inadvertently damaged Deadwyler’s chances with her own missteps over the past couple of months. Her continual overt campaigning really turned me off.

[@singstreetcar5881]

Really? What did she do

[@TheAwardsContender]

Deadwyler was such a worthy contender!

[@VTMCompany]

I certainly enjoyed her performance! I'm also very pleased Ana de Armas got her well-deserved nomination even in view of the fact "Blonde" is all over the place at the Razzie nominations. Michelle and Ana should both show up on the Oscars Red Carpet as MM.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Interesting category this year!

[@RobertPagano226]

Good memory, both were nominated for playing MM

[@colorantartificiel3018]

You always deliver. You and BKR are my favourite. Always instructive and well researched. Bravo

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thank you so much!!

[@j.cutrone]

I must say, Andrea's performance in To Leslie was heartbreaking and so real. However, Viola and Danielle should've been nominated, replacing both Ana and Michelle. It blows my mind how they weren't nominated!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Deadwyler should be in there for sure!

[@AEF95]

Danielle sure, viola no.

[@RhiannonSenpai]

Danielle was way better than Viola Davis though.

[@lpquagmire3621]

And Sam Worthington was robbed too, bro!

[@Largentina.]

​@@lpquagmire3621 Stop it

[@jonathanvelazquezph.d.2719]

Thank you for this insightful video. You've treated the topic with respect and clarity. I will definitely be looking to see her film and can't wait to find out if the Academy takes action, if at all. To be continued...

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@jessesmith-garcia5313]

My "small" opinion on this is it's only a controversy if she wins the Oscar, if she doesn't win, then it's a nomination and nothing more than that!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yeah, that would be a shocker win!

[@jaylouis8227]

I actually love that Andrea Riseborough was able to garner a nomination for this film. She used social media to circumvent the typical Oscar campaign tactics and it worked to perfection. Also, her performance in To Leslie is actually really good.

[@nasb2218]

SHE GAVE ONE OF THE BEST PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR. TANG WEI ALSO DESERVED A NOM.

[@vickster5001]

Agree on Tang Wei. Actors in international films really need to start getting recognition.

[@nasb2218]

@@vickster5001 Tang Wei gave incredible performance in lust, caution one of the best Meinstream Chinese film , now in decision to leave she was better than Cate Blanchett in tar

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes!!

This whole situation is so absurd and the vitriol around her is so strong, that I won't be surprised if she wins. Who knows what's going on behind the scenes right now?

[@mikegonzalez503]

Yeah. It's gonna hurt, since I think Michelle Yeoh is so deserving in a movie that will most likely be remembered far longer than any of these nominated.

@@mikegonzalez503 I can imagine a reality where Blanchett and Yeoh cancel each other and Andrea wins. Keep watching

[@HeelPower200]

She could very easily win if the nomination is not rescineded. She has total backing of the actors branch and they've already got together and decided she's the best.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Very true!

[@DeeDeeFatmLoverWanab]

She is not winning this . I swear if she does i might go crazy. Did y'all not see Tár 😭 Cate gave the best performance of the decade so far and yes I saw To Leslie

[@johnnolan5579]

Loved her in "Crocodile" an episode of Black Mirror.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes!!

[@jesusangelespinosasalgado9430]

Let's just go to the point... Andrea DESERVED THIS NOMINATION. She was massive and devastating... But instead of overexplaining and go through every grey area let's use examples being based on the small budget indie films existing. Do you all think this would've happened to Adepero Oduye in 2012 (only Meryl mencioned her at the Globes)? Radha Blank in 2021? Alfre Woodard in 2020? Taylour Paige, Brittany S. Hall and Kali Reis in 2022? Emayatzy Corinealdi in 2013? Kitana Kiki Rodriguez in 2016? Maybe Gwyneth and the rest were too busy specially when it comes with them bragging about the importance of inclusivity... But SHAME ON Frances Fisher, was awful using the NAMES!!!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@winglee1976]

I agree with your thoughts that both Cate B and Michelle Yeoh were locks. I was very surprised that Andrea got this surprise nomination with almost no precursors like the other contenders, but I am happy for her and I think her performance looks amazing in the trailer. I don’t mind Ana de Armas nomination, she was fabulous and gave her all to play Marilyn in a very unlikeable film. I did see Fabelmans, and I honestly think Michelle Williams is not supposed to be nominated for Lead, it’s category fraud. She’s the one that sneaked in to take Deadwyler or Davis spots. It’s unfortunate that the way the A-list actors pulled their strings and campaigned for Andrea helped her get her nomination which I think she’s worthy of, but this might backfire and tarnish her career for future Oscar possibilities.

[@TheAwardsContender]

A lot of factors were at play here. Ultimately I’m happy she got recognized. Thanks for watching!

[@alisdairmckenzie]

Absolutely. Williams shouldn't have been in the 5. Wrong category

[@CaptainHarlock-kv4zt]

I've met this type of women and I have to say that Andria did a really great job. Just give her the Oscar!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great performance!

[@ellenripley4837]

This nomination feels like actors fighting against Hollywood's typical political campaigns when it comes to the Oscars.

[@enriquesanchez9016]

Not really, it's just powerful Hollywood elitists doing favors to a friend. It's just as political as the typical Hollywood system, especially when women of color NEVER get the kind of push that Andrea got.

[@DianaL-ou6pb]

I had never heard of Andrea Riseborough before, but I watched the movie and her performance was superb. Now I am obsessed with seeing all of her performances. The nomination is well deserved. The fact that fellow actors spread the word on her performance should not be should be frowned upon when movie studios mount well funded, well organized campaigns to get their actors/actreeses nominations. I am glad there is at least some diversity in that Michelle Yeoh was nominated. (Asian actors and actresses have been largely ignored as well). So far "To Leslie" is the only film I have seen of the BEST actress nominations. I look forward to seeing the performances of the other actresses that were nominated this year as well as the performances of Davis and Deadwyler. .

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great, thanks for watching!

[@doncasto8520]

I've had "To Leslie" on my watchlist for a long time because it got universal praise, a high Rotten Tomatoes score and she got an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Hat's off to indie movies like this getting some love. I like that you think she's deserving but that women of color didn't get the same kind of push. I think Michelle Williams whom is a supporting actress shouldn't have gotten in or de Armas shouldn't have gotten in.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@elleryprescott]

All the performances in EEAAO were fine. Nothing spectacular.

[@robindunn2731]

Just watched the movie last night. To Leslie.. It was good!!

[@cobolsaurus]

Whoever has any doubt about Andrea´s performance, do one thing: watch the movie. Her performance, other actors performances, and the film are amazing.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Agreed, she’s fantastic!

[@wookinooki9023]

look at my emotions, look at my emotions, look at my emotions, look at my emotions, look at my emotions, look at my emotions, look at my emotions, look at my emotions...

[@bruh_hahaha]

If Deadwyler had gotten in instead of de Armas or Williams this wouldn’t be an issue. But as it is, yeah, it looks BAAAD. 🤣🍿

[@TheAwardsContender]

Deadwyler should’ve gotten in!

[@cynthiarouse]

Because her performance was so brilliant people couldn't help but notice? It's very rare but it does happen....when the moon is blue... ; - )

[@CaptainNippon]

I haven't seen "To Leslie" and I won't, but I'll take Kate Winslet's word for it and assume it's the greatest performance by an actor ever in a motion picture. What Andrea Riseborought did was against the Academy rules and unethical. She pretty much asked her friends to spread the word and help her promote the movie amount voters and when someone like Kate Winslet says it's the "greatest performance ever" people and voters will take notice. The problem is "To Leslie" grossed only $46k to date and even less 3 weeks ago. So how does an actor from a movie that most people and voters have never heard of get a "Best Actress" nomination? Voters simply don't vote for actors if they never heard of or seen the movie, it's that simple, it doesn't matter how amazing the performance is. Riseborought didn't get a Golden Globe or SAG or bafta nomination so how does she get the Oscar then? The other four actresses received one or two and both Michelle Yeoh and Cate Blanchett received nominations for every award. Andrea Riseborought definitely takes away a nomination from a black actress or someone else because NO ONE would have voted for her.

[@davy209]

I agree! You make great points all around! What’s off putting, for me especially, is that Andrea’s nomination feels more like all of her very big names and powerful actor friends all came in and did all of the heavy lifting for her in campaigning to where she didn’t have to put in the work herself while the other actress like Danielle Deadwyler had to do. I would feel better about Andrea’s nomination if she was putting in the hard work in campaigning as much as Danielle and Viola were doing.

[@CaptainNippon]

@@davy209 Agreed. She definitely used her influential star power friends to spearhead the movie and her Oscar nomination. Here's another thing, NO ONE knew who Andrea Riseborought was until this whole Oscar thing blew up, she has no star power at all, hint why literally no one went to see her movie and the movie was not original. How many more white women or men with alcohol problems do we need to see? Her career is over after this, it was probably already over before this. Glad Michelle Yeoh won Best Leading Actress.

[@hissellbermudez8122]

I remember her from Black Mirror’s Crocodile. She was outstanding in that episode.I have not yet seen the movie but I have no doubt she was great in it. It sucks it had a terrible distributor and many people didn’t get to see it. Indie movies often if not always provide the best acting performances and yet they don’t get to reach the masses. It also sucks she is getting all that hate online. I am more appalled to see that the academy isn’t yet able to recognise female directors in their branch.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Very true, thanks for your comment!

[@fadhilramadhani1847]

Danielle Deadwyler should have a frontrunner for this prize as well. Ana robbed her nom. Andrea has always been a great underrated actress and she deserves this.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes!

[@nikkiarafiles3132]

It's a good thing Michelle Yeoh got the Oscar. I absolutely was rooting for her to win instead of Andrea Riseborough because if she wins the award, she would have been the next Marcia Gay Harden & Marisa Toemi. 😅 They were also snubbed in other nominations in the other major events in the US, including the BAFTA. 😅

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes, agreed!

[@adamwaters5909]

Amazing video as always!!! I really hope you do a video on the winners after the Oscars this year. It definitely has been a different kind of year for film for sure. I’m definitely anticipating several shocking wins 😮🤗

[@TheAwardsContender]

I’m planning an Oscars reaction video directly after the ceremony. Thanks, Adam!

[@adamwaters5909]

@@TheAwardsContender yay I’m excited for it 🤗❤️

[@fajarsetiawan8665]

I do legitimately think there is NO problem with Andrea Riseborough being nominated. My ONLY complain is why Ana de Armas is there?? It is OUTRAGEOUS!!!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Haha, thanks for watching!

[@ethannielson942]

Of course she deserved it, but so did Danielle Detweiler, far more than Ana de Armas for that most troubling film, BLONDE. A few years back I took tremendous exception when Taraji P. Henson was completely shut out for HIDDEN FIGURES (she should have won Best Actress) and then the following year for THE BEST OF ENEMIES, where both she and Sam Rockwell should have been recognized and actually won for their respective performances.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@davy209]

Hidden Figures had a terrible Oscar campaign. Their biggest mistake was releasing the movie at the very last week of December for eligibility but did not peak in popularity until Oscar voting was almost over. I think the awards campaigners didn’t have a lot of faith in the movie to campaign it early against other movie. They never expected that Hidden Figures would be a box office hit and overwhelmingly be well received by critics. The buzzed for the film peaked to late unfortunately and the people responsible for the movie’s award campaign are to be blamed.

[@hquryouti1025]

After I just watched here movie TO LESLIE she earned the winning I love it and I’m happy for her she won

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great performance!

[@gabrielcastaneda9700]

Please release this film in theaters the studio needs to

[@loluolusesan-falade1181]

Danielle Deadwyler not getting a nomination is an injustice that can NEVER be repaid no matter what. It is a worse snub than that of Bette Davis in "of human bondage" in 1935. It is also a crime against black women. It just reeks of all kinds of wrongs.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Deadwyler should’ve been in the running to WIN. So devastated by her omission.

[@bubb5225]

She will probably never win any award, not just the Oscar, because of this. That guy who started the campaign did her no favors.

[@evanmcguire5787]

I love these videos. Thank you for doing so much research and getting this uploaded so quickly.

[@TheAwardsContender]

You’re welcome, glad you enjoyed!

[@sandothemando8924]

Andrea Riseborough was very funny in The Death of Stalin. She showed her knack for comedic roles in that movie and it would be good to see her in more comedies. She's a versatile actress. I have to check out To Leslie now...

[@TheAwardsContender]

Just watched Matilda and she is hilarious. A completely versatile actress, you’re right.

[@DavidN369]

Sensationally clear--eyed take, Mr. Rowe. Your reaction on Nomination Morning closely mirrored my own (Mr. Henry, Mr. Mescal, YES). Ms. Riseborough is certainly deserving, and then some, though my heart still aches for Ms. Deadwyler, who was beyond preternatural. Ah, Hollywood. Thanks again for your wonderful insights.

[@TheAwardsContender]

You’re welcome, David! Thanks for watching!

[@collinwoodresident]

I think she is excellent.

[@soil80]

One thing I don't get is... no one forced the voters to put her in. They had to watch the movies and put her performance above the others. The social media campaigning was to get attention but I don't think it would've been possible if the performance would've been just mediocre. I mean the copy paste thing is fishy if they didn't watch it and just put her in to do a favor for the director. I agree though, that there never was this kind of support for black women.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes, good points. Thanks for watching!

[@paulajf4205]

So let's get this straight, the Academy doesn't have an issue with studio-induced, lots of money thrown at "campaigning," which some may say is lobbying, but they do take issue with an organic and authentic, word-of-mouth uplifting of a little-known performance by fans and peers?! Hmmm.

[@tbam73]

Ana and Michele got in when they shouldn't have. The Academy played these talented women. Viola and Danielle you are brilliant

[@TheAwardsContender]

Really wish Deadwyler was in there!!

[@geoffnelson6756]

The acting in the first 20 seconds of this clip deserves a best actor Oscar, I was in tears it was so moving.

[@andrewlampe6116]

1st reason should be her incredible towering performance

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes!

[@joymartin4640]

Brian, that's good that you think her performance was worthy, I dont doubt that but the fact that it came at the last minute is more than suspicious that it had to be this year. The year where the Best Actress race was going to be majority POC actresses for the first time. While Riseborough may be a veteran in the industry, she's still relatively unknown to most of the public, where was she during the roundtables that Viola and Danielle both participated in? Why did no major studio buy the film back in March 2022 when it premiered? If she was so amazing why wasn't she at SAG at least? These are questions that Im not sure why the Academy wouldnt think we would ask? It looks very messy and the credibility of this nomination over two actresses of color that hit every mark makes the Academy look very questionable.

[@abhirajcollar]

🤦🤦🤦🤦

[@6ixpoint5ive]

Yikes... so what only people with big financial studio backing should be allowed to get awards? Woof. Thats some classist shit right there, friend. ALL films released in a given should be respected during awards season and have the RIGHT to be recognized. Riseborough knew this and she was smart enough to know that the academy (or any voting body made up on human beings and human nature) doesn't have the time to watch everything. So they often only watch "the big ones," the ones their colleagues have told them are worth a watch, or the ones they have screeners for (which are sent out by big studios with campaign $$). They often don't watch low budget indies unless big word of mouth tells them too and they don't watch films with subject matters that don't appeal to them; its a crying shame, but they're human, welcome to humanity. So Riseborough, loving her performance and believing it should have a chance to at least be considered - which is all anyone hopes for, - took it upon herself to have a fighting chance. Her performance made it to Critics Choice I believe, and the chances of anyone else seeing it were slim. Her getting nominated is proof that someone SHOULDNT have to rely on the $$$$$$ of big studios or oscar campaigns to get a nomination. That they can do it DIY and if enough people like your performance and feel it worthy you can get in. Thats wonderful. It gave her film a fighting chance. (but it's also proof that recency bias is a real thing and it's called the Oscar 'race' for a reason. Sometimes people just start speeding past out of the blew. Remember when CODA jsut came out of no where last year? = Oscar. Race.) Yes, Detwiller SHOULD ABSOLUTELY be here too. But fuck man, replace Michelle Williams who also meets at the arbitrary narrative points you're mad about AND has big studio $$ to support her. There's your "Villian" (I put this in the biggest air quotes, because we shouldn't treat people like things or pawns for our own agendas and narratives and we went we do, well we're assholes.) If you want someone to kick out of the race for Detwiller, its Williams who had that big studio backing AND was considered out of the race many weeks back... not Riseborough. Where's you anger at the Best Director race or the Cinematography race, or the actor race, or the Score race or Song race? All of which also had major surprises and snubs, some kicking out sure fire contenders or surprise hits. You have every right to be frustrated, yes, Detwiller should be here. but please, redirect it. Riseborough isn't the villian here. No individual is; no, not even Williams. Get made at the academy, or rather, get mad at human nature... there's your villian.

[@quincilena]

I’m going to have watch “To Leslie” before I make an official judgement on this whole thing, but I agree about the SAG nominations. If so many of these actors loved her performance, WHY didn’t they start campaigning for her earlier to get her in at SAG? It most likely wouldn’t be as big of a to-do as it is now if she had got a nomination at another awards precursor.

[@collinwoodresident]

What would be truly incredible is if she actually wins. I'm not counting her out. Her performance is just as strong as Cate Blanchett. Oh and To Brian, I think you are very cute!!!

[@joymartin4640]

@@6ixpoint5ive I didn’t bring up a major studio not once in my comment, I don’t care how big or small the distributor is. The thing is no one even on social media hyped her performance on a massive scale upon initial release…if the performance was as lauded as they say, why are we just hearing about it now? SXSW is a huge film fest, this wasnt on most people’s radar until now what I’m saying. I don’t think Riseborough is the villain I’m not taking my frustration out on her as much as I am the powers that be. The consistent exclusion of not just one but TWO black woken who deserved to be nominated this year is unacceptable. Michelle shouldn’t be in the Best Actress category and from what I’m hearing Ana shouldn’t have even been nominated. Both Viola and Danielle should’ve been nominated. I think you may have missed my point.

[@cwm8565]

Winstlet has for sure missed out on the TRUE best performances ever in cinema-Streep in Sophie’s Choice, and Cotillard in La Vie En Rose.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@WhenItsHalfPastFive]

She was amazing in To Leslie, and out of these nominees only Cate Blanchette, Michelle Yeoh and Riseborough are worthy of it. And I wouldn't even be mad if Riseborough won, although I think Cate deserves it.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Loved her performance!

[@rgncajun21]

So with all the actors praising her performance why wasn’t she nominated for sag?

[@TheAwardsContender]

Campaign went full force after SAG nominations.

[@jgg59]

So the last time something like this really happened was the Sally Kirkland campaign. Kirkland did this with 1987 technology sending out videos of her film Anna and put up her own money and call on her friends, Robert Redford and Paul, Newman, etc. etc..

[@TheAwardsContender]

True, although she did win the Golden Globe, so her Oscar nom was expected.

[@mjohnson5030]

She deserved it. Andrea Riseborough has been in two of the same movie: The Hidden with Oblivion with Tom Cruise. A post apocalyptic survival flick about the last 2 survivors on planet Earth fighting monsters but learn that [SPOILERS... see it first. It's a good movie!] ...THEY are the bad guys! The monsters are just humans in masks! This "protagonist was unknowingly the villain" (or pawn of the villain) is almost a trope started by the book and movie versions of "I Am Legend" and appears in various forms in a dozen other movies such as "Extinction" with Michael Pena. But Andrea Riseborough did it twice! Impressive.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yes, a great actress!

[@tiffanywitherspoon8722]

Why don’t they just extend the number of nominations when necessary?

[@diannemanning1823]

Very thoughtful take on Best Actress Oscar Race. I would have put her performance MUCH earlier in your 5 reasons. (Unless 5th is the penultimate!) Campaign wouldn't have gone anywhere without how incredible she is. Contrary to other presumptions... I DO BELIEVE that - because of the personal endorsements - voters were inspired to WATCH and voted accordingly. Because, as you said, IF #ToLeslie was promoted by a large studio (like ALL the others), she would have been in the precursors and in conversation all along. The greatest TRAGEDY of this category is Danielle Deadwyler. (Not as taken with Viola. Solid but seen before. Being MS. Viola Davis. More upset that Gina didn't get more respect as director). Danielle was a revelation and DESERVED Nom. I adore Michelle but NOT this time. Fablemans overrated. Scoring noms because of Spielberg name. Ana's performance was fascinating for about 10 minutes then soooo repetitive. (The revelation in that confused film was Adrian Brody. The 1st scene between Miller and Monroe was easily the best scene in film). BUT contrary to some erroneous accusations, NONE of the endorsements of Andrea were an active dismissing of POC actresses but an uplifting of an underappreciated phenomenal actress. Most thought Danielle was a lock not only because of her phenomenal performance but (TBH) being a Black actress would have more security NOW because of Academy's efforts to diversify. Inclusivity was assumed BUT shouldn't have been in such a competitive category. Again, OTHER potentials were thought to be more vulnerable!! As far as ignored indie performances (and why not them) the NOW of this campaign I think has to do with artists rebelling against the millions spent on campaigns. Also, seeing YET AGAIN an unheralded, consummate, veteran actress being ignored. Lots of things were upended during COVID including film industry. Felt like the artists are flexing their power against the machine that is gearing up again. Look at last two BP winners. Note: Moviemaking is a business so BP this year will be bittersweet... influenced by those films that brought people back to attending NOT always the judge in excellence in art.

[@marcusj4641]

Specifically naming two African American actresses as "a lock" is a passive-aggressive, underhanded way of saying don't vote for the two African American actresses. White liberals play these kind of games all the time and feign innocence when they are caught. I won't name names. Frances Fisher.

[@donp6441]

Dianne that was so on point and well said. I completely agree. Thank you for sharing that.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@davy209]

All great points made. I think both Andrea and Danielle deserved to be nominated together. I would’ve taken out either Anna De Armas or Michelle Williams to make room for Danielle Deadwyler to be honest.

[@davy209]

I also want to point out, even though the Academy Awards always talks about inclusivity, it’s not always shown through their own actions. I think the majority of time a black actor even gets nominated, is because their performances are in the top 3 and apart of the “winning” conversation, rather than good enough to get the fifth slot. Being good enough to get nominated, most of the time, is just not enough to get nominated. It’s like they have to be always twice as good as the other 10 or 15 actors competing for those five slots. The fifth slot usually benefits more white actors if anything.

[@HollyHargreaves]

Great video & she deserves the nomination. I don't understand why throwing millions of dollars at a campaign is ok but this wasn't? I feel bad for her. Finally, her work is recognized but she has to deal with this BS.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great performance!

[@blaz5210]

I actually predicted her to get nominated. I changed this sort of last minute after reading about the huge celebrity support, and I thought sure, lets see if this actually works. I would say Andrea was actually NOT the 5th slot, given the success of Andrea's campaign. I'd say she came to 4th or even 3rd, behind the untouchables Blanchett and Yeoh. My bet it Ana was fifth. I feel bad for both Viola and Danielle (I still have not yet seen Till.... still on my list), but Andrea didn't push any of them out of the nominations list. It was Blonde! Anyhow, watched To Leslie over the weekend and was blown away by Andrea. So happy for her success with the Oscar nomination!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great performance!

[@seal3081]

When was the last time a black actress got the backing and support of so many people for a nomination?

[@lonellfletcher]

I think because the push was so last minute and seemingly out of nowhere, that that is why it’s being investigated. If Ana and Michelle W didn’t have the big studio push and hadn’t been factors all season long, then it would be three shockers to potentially investigate. Sadly the one thing that should be investigated, racial bias, in the leading actress race especially, will never happen.

[@TheAwardsContender]

True, thanks for watching!

[@cooperwesley1536]

Although I do understand that the Awards Ecosystem should share a bit of blame, the primary reason POC are overlooked is that Hollywood STILL does a really bad job of CREATING noteworthy films that tell black stories while simultaneously ignoring black actors when casting for race-neutral roles. I think the Academy would nominate more POC if there were more fantastic performances in quality films on the consideration list... and that's ultimately a reflection of the producers and studios, not the Academy voters. Two more points: 1) Viola Davis may have also suffered because her film received some pushback from historians concerning the accuracy of the film's story. If you're going to make an historical drama, you first have to get the history right, and they didn't. 2) Every year, only 5 performances get in, and every year there are at least 10 who deserve a nomination. There will ALWAYS be worthy performances left out. These are NOT "snubs"... they are just unfortunate side-effects of the system. Maybe it's time to expand each list to 6 or 7 nominees. They expanded the Best Picture list to 10, so why not, right?

[@TheAwardsContender]

Going to 6 isn’t a bad idea!

[@sarahkim5428]

Regarding 1) historical accuracy did Not Seem to be a Problem for the Academy when it came to Braveheart, Argo or Hurt Locker... .

[@apoorvasolanki8124]

But best actress for Till was really expectable

[@fmtalks1386]

Well-deserved nomination for Riseborough.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great performance!

[@daveteves]

I'd be really pissed if Risebourough wins the Best Actress Oscar instead of Michelle Yeoh!

[@TheAwardsContender]

I think it will be Yeoh!

[@stephendavis6267]

I am glad to see some defense of Riseborough's performance here. I understand the sour taste it leaves in one's mouth to see two women of color in acclaimed performances miss out, but Riseborough is not to blame for it. MGM is a notoriously bad campaigner and they did not give "Till" a strong enough push and Deadwyler's relative unknown status worked against her there, and "The Woman King" blanking across the board with the Oscars just shows there wasn't enough passion for it to get Davis in. I always thought Davis was the most vulnerable person to get all precursor nods and then miss, as we have seen happen with regularity over the last decade. And while I can see some frustration at the campaign tactics, I personally think it's refreshing to see something happen like this that doesn't cost millions of studio dollars in PR junkets, talk shows, roundtables and FYC ads actually succeed. The investigation happening now (which I doubt will end in any sort of strong disciplinary action, nor should it) feels very performative, especially since we've seen similar circumstances in the past pan out (i.e. the Shohreh Aghdashloo ad in 2003, Nicolas Chartier getting blocked from receiving his Oscar in 2009 but still technically winning it, as his name was read in the list of winners). In the age of social media, when an Instagram post can carry as much weight as a paid-for campaign ad in the New York Times, rules have to be be looked at and reflect the times we're in.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@Jared_Wignall]

I’ve never heard of the film she was in nor have I seen much of Andrea Riseborough’s work so I can’t really comment on whether I think she should be nominated or not. That all said, it’s cool to hear your thoughts on this Brian, keep up the great work!

[@caspersaysboooo]

Then you're missing out. She's appeared in many many great films, Battle of Sexes being one, Venus (2006). I may be bias however, as she's from my hometown in the North East of England.

[@bev9708]

@@caspersaysboooo Also must add her turn in Black Mirror!!

[@Sharpe1502]

I think most film fans know her from Mandy.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks!

[@Jared_Wignall]

@@caspersaysboooo I’ve seen Venus, but don’t recall her in it, I’ve also never watched Battle of the Sexes.

[@pepperminttree]

12:53 really appreciate you bringing this up

[@albalbuena6478]

Danielle Deadwyler should have been nominated and won the Oscar. It was the best performance of last year; unfortunately, she didn’t campaign. Since people didn’t know her, she was easy to be overlooked.

[@sorayabranco]

Is the Oscar about influence or performance? I dont understand the fuzz. She is clearly worthy the race. It was made justice. And people are complaing? Lobbie is when the small money dont enter the run, not when they win.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Loved her performance!

[@bev9708]

GREAT analysis, GREAT video yet again Brian, so interesting!! I think just about everyone who follows and are keenly interested in these award show nominations is more or less disappointed, shocked, outraged, or even disgusted that Danielle Deadwyler was left out... it's just wrong!!! Btw, I really really enjoyed your reaction video too back on announcement day, such a treat!!

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yay, thanks for watching!!!

[@siddharthnaagar7028]

Andrea Riseborough was terrific in this movie, even better than the frontrunners 🏃‍♂️to win this award

[@TheAwardsContender]

It’s an amazing performance, agreed!

[@widipriyanto9876]

I don't understand what's the fuss all about? She's a great actress????? A lot of nominations from Oscars from time to time are from indie movies that general audience don't know. Last year's best picture is also won by a very obscure movie that no one talks about anymore. Andrea is a seasoned actress with films like Birdman, Oblivion and Mandy. It's about damn time she's nominated.

[@TheAwardsContender]

She’s a fantastic actress!!

[@widipriyanto9876]

@@TheAwardsContender give me a favor and go watch her Black Mirror episode. You'll thank me later.

[@Lilah_Ninigigun_Belet-Eanna]

I thought Taylor Russell in Bones and All was simply extraordinary. I wish she could replace Andrea Riseborough. Hope she's the second black actress to win Best Actress in the future.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Russell was excellent. The content of the film excluded her this awards season, sadly.

[@amosperrine1909]

Nice vid. Someone always gets a nod that is unexpected as actors invariably see a lot more movies than we do. Knowing quite a few SAG members, I can confidently say that they are looking at different things than you, me, or even critics. No one is saying the same thing about three actors who were surprises to me: I HONG CHAU, BRIAN TYREE HENRY and PAUL MESCAL. In short, sometimes a grassroots campaign that does not draw a lot of media attention works. The vids that you include demonstrates that the praise her fellow actors gave Riseborough was heartfelt and genuine.

[@kevinpizano2931]

Hong Chau got a SAG Nom, Brian Tyree Henry got a Critics Choice Nom, and Paul Mescal got a BAFTA and a Critics Choice Nom, they are not the same

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@katedo7499]

Riseborough was good but her nomination has seemed a bit off and clouded by this controversy. Michelle Yeoh is still my personal favorite to win. I think I would settle with her. It’s a one of a kind performance.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Rooting for Yeoh!

She is the best actress of the year. I watched all other films including Woman King, Till, and Babylon. All great BUT riseburough’s is absolutely the best performance of 2022.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Fantastic performance!

@@TheAwardsContender right? Stunning

[@Dennisanyone-]

Future acting races should be campaigned like this. Through old fashioned word of mouth and social media. Often brilliant performances slip through the cracks because the studios can’t cough up the bucks to promote the actors work. I would argue Davis had a better shot getting in than De Armas. The less said about Blonde the better. Williams was dumb to campaign for lead actress considering she will not win again there. She should’ve gone for supporting, thereby having a reasonable chance of taking down Bassett. Reconsider your future strategy Michelle. I saw TL on streaming before the noms and was truly blown away by Anderas work. She’s definitely deserving of a win (in another year haha), and definitely is one of the top 5 by an actress this year. The Academy is ridiculous investigating her nomination. Considering all the tactics people have used for DECADES that would make the Hollywood Foreign Press blush. Short of her paying members of the actors branch off with money, let Andrea enjoy the nom. Still rooting for Cate and her virtuoso work in Tar.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thanks for watching!

[@daniellaspace1617]

Andre did an amazing job, so I can’t say she didn’t deserve the nom.

[@alisdairmckenzie]

Lol...I posted my comment right near the end. Great then that you mentioned her other roles...showing she wasn't some unknown actress.

[@SleepFan771]

Really thorough video. Great stuff. I wish Best Actress was Cate Blanchett, Michelle Yeoh, Tang Wei, Danielle Deadwyler, & Mia Goth. At least people may seek out To Leslie to see Andrea Riseborough act.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Thank you!

[@davy209]

All fantastic choices for Oscar nominees!

[@emillion4470]

Not since the golden era of silent films have we seen such a delightfully effusive mimed reaction onscreen... much more appreciated than those screeching juvenile monkeys in other award vlogs.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Haha, thin walls, didn’t want to get in trouble!

[@vickster5001]

Great balanced analysis of this subject. I watched the film last night and I agree she’s certainly worthy and under a bigger studio she’d have been in the conversation much more. I am upset Deadwyler isn’t there and can’t see how you wouldn’t have room for both on your ballot, but I don’t like how riseborough is getting so much hateful commentary online, The whole awards campaigning needs overhauling so more indie films, women of colour and performances in international films (Tang Wei was superb this year for example) all have a fair shot at nominations. I loved Alfred Woodard in clemency and in a pretty weak nominee list, it was dreadful she wasn’t even mentioned much. Maybe expanding to 6 now best picture is 10 would help but the whole awards campaigning machine needs to be reviewed.

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great points, thank you!

[@singstreetcar5881]

They should have done this for joanna scanlan last year for after love .

[@TheAwardsContender]

Great performance!

[@orphicuranus]

You said you were going to make Kate Winslet's winning video 🥺 I'm so eager for that...love this video though :)

[@TheAwardsContender]

Yep, that one is coming after this current awards season. Excited to get started!

[@derrionbrown3923]

If they revoke her nomination I guarantee there will be an actress boycott of the Oscars. From a specific group of actresses.

[@brentandrew2419]

You acknowledge she gave one hell of a performance, but then claim she 'stole' the spot from Danielle Detweiller... what did you want them to do, just nominate her for affirmative action? They're supposed to be trophies for the best performance, not filling a quota, so I always find talk about not enough POC being nominated as if it's an agenda to be pretty reductive honestly.