This year, with a longer than usual eligibility period and closed theatres preventing traditional premieres and releases, the Oscars nominations look very different. Regardless of how the actual awards pan out, the big winner seems to be diversity, with historic nominations for actors of colour in nearly every category.
It’s truly amazing that in the nearly one hundred year history of the Oscars, no Asian-American has ever been nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Fortunately, Steven Yeun broke that streak with his well-deserved nomination this year. Riz Ahmed was another actor who made history, as the first Muslim actor nominated for Best Actor for his role in the “Sound of Metal”. Viola Davis also became the most nominated Black actress, after picking up a nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her work in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”. Chloé Zhao’s nomination for Best Director also marks the first time a woman of colour has been nominated in that category. Although not a first, it was heartwarming to see a posthumous nomination for Best Actor for Chadwick Boseman, for “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”.
While the Oscars arguably lose relevance year after year, they can be an important indicator of the stories that are valued and emphasized in the media. It only took a worldwide pandemic –– and time will tell whether this pattern of greater diversity and representation sticks even after the pandemic is over (if it ever is) –– but this year’s Oscar nominations finally reflect more diversity. Actors and directors of colour are finally getting the credit and opportunities they deserve. The 93rd Academy Awards may be one to watch!