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With 10 Slots to Fill, Oscar Debate Starts Early

Some execs remain opposed to expanded Best Picture nominee list

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Sep 4, 2009 11:28 AM CDT

(Newser) – The point of doubling the number of Academy Award best picture nominees this year was to draw more viewers to the show. The pitfall: Hardly anything Oscar worthy has emerged, writes Kim Masters for the Daily Beast. And while most nominees hit theaters later in the year, 30% fewer films will come out this year than during that time in 2008.

Meanwhile, executives are unhappy about the switch because it means dropping more cash on Oscar campaigns for films that have no real chance at a nomination. “You’re going to have crazy-ass people chasing awards,” says one. “Agents, managers, publicity teams—you should be a fly on the wall in one of these meetings!” he says. Only two films so far this year are considered real hopefuls: The Hurt Locker and Up.

In this image released by Disney/Pixar Films, animated characters Russell, left, and Carl Fredricksen are shown in a scene from the film, Up.
In this image released by Disney/Pixar Films, animated characters Russell, left, and Carl Fredricksen are shown in a scene from the film, "Up."   (AP Photo/Disney/Pixar)
In this film publicity image released by Summit Entertainment, Jeremy Renner is shown in a scene from, The Hurt Locker.
In this film publicity image released by Summit Entertainment, Jeremy Renner is shown in a scene from, "The Hurt Locker."   (AP Photo/Summit Entertainment, Jonathan Olley)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
npkimmey
Sep 4, 2009 4:58 AM CDT
What about District 9? That seems Oscar worthy.
acidick
Sep 4, 2009 4:34 AM CDT
This just in: Optimus Prime nominated for best actor!!
gabo
Sep 4, 2009 4:33 AM CDT
Is there any other business in the world that is so self congratulatory?

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