Following the announcement of the 2016 Oscar nominations, everyone has offered their commentary. One notable topic for many critics is the noticeable lack of representation for minority actors. In response celebrities, politicians, and everyone in-between took to Twitter to air their outrage with the Academy, using the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite.
The hashtag, created by editor April Reign, actually stems from last year’s Academy Awards, in which no minorities were nominated for acting awards. “It’s actually worse than last year. Best Documentary and Best Original Screenplay. That’s it. #OscarsSoWhite,” Reign tweeted out in reference to the fact that out of 20 possible nominees, not one of them are of color.
Movies like “Straight Outta Compton” and “Creed” received nominations, but not for what many would think. “Straight Outta Compton” was considered for “Best Original Screenplay,” an honor that ignores both the cast and director of the movie, but is geared towards it’s white co-writers. While, “Creed” received nominations for Sylvester Stalone’s supporting role, while lead actor Michael B. Jordan, and writer-director Ryan Coogler were left off of the list.
Other than “Compton,” and “Creed,” many people felt that Idris Elba’s role in “Beasts of No Nation” and Will Smith in “Concussion” deserved nominations.
Prominent figures who voiced their opinion on the matter include New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Hollywood fine with taking $ from people of color. Also apparently fine with ignoring their talent. #OscarsSoWhite,” he said. Other celebs including John Stamos, Al Sharpton, and Jeff Chu, all commented on the situation as well.
Academy President voiced her opinion on this matter to Deadline online, Of course I am disappointed, but this is not to take away from the greatness [of the films nominated],” shesaid. “This has been a great year in film, it really has across the board. You are never going to know what is going to appear on the sheet of paper until you see it.”
While many have stated their outrage with the fact that there are no actors of color being acknowledged for their work this year at the Oscars, others feel that there was simply a lack of talent on that end. Now it’s you turn, what’s your take on the nominees?
Sources: Deadline, CNN, Twitter (image), E!News
