Tag: best original song

2023 Oscars Challenge: [38] “RRR” (One Nomination)

FILM #38 OF 39 95TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2023 OSCARS CHALLENGE“RRR”MARCH 6, 2023ZEE5 DAY 42 OF 48 Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures(Original Song)“NAATU NAATU”Music by M.M. KeeravaaniLyrics by ChandrabosePerformed By Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava I don’t connect with films from India and the Bollywood subsection. Because of that, I tend to avoid those films altogether. Not technically a Bollywood film … Read More 2023 Oscars Challenge: [38] “RRR” (One Nomination)

2023 Oscars Challenge: [34] “Top Gun: Maverick” (Six Nominations)

FILM #34 OF 39 95TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2023 OSCARS CHALLENGE“TOP GUN: MAVERICK”MARCH 2, 2023PARAMOUNT+ DAY 38 OF 48 Best MOTION PICTURE OF THE YEARProduced by Tom Cruise, Christopher McQuarrie, David Ellison and Jerry Bruckheimer Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay)Screenplay by Ehren Kruger and Eric Warren Singer and Christopher McQuarrieStory by Peter Craig and Justin MarksBased on Characters by Jim Cash and Jack Epps Jr. … Read More 2023 Oscars Challenge: [34] “Top Gun: Maverick” (Six Nominations)

2023 Oscars Challenge: [23] “Tell It Like A Woman” (One Nomination)

FILM #23 OF 39 95TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2023 OSCARS CHALLENGE“TELL IT LIKE A WOMAN”FEBRUARY 21, 2023AMAZON RENTAL DAY 29 OF 48 Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures(Original Song)“APPLAUSE”Music and Lyric by Diane WarrenPerformed By Sofia Carson Diane Warren is a force of nature. No matter how unseen a film is, if she writes a song for it, chances are it will … Read More 2023 Oscars Challenge: [23] “Tell It Like A Woman” (One Nomination)

2023 Oscars Challenge: [22] “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (Five Nominations)

FILM #22 OF 39 95TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2023 OSCARS CHALLENGE“BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER”FEBRUARY 18, 2023DISNEY+ DAY 26 OF 48 Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting RoleAngela Bassett Best Achievement in Costume DesignCostume Design by Ruth E. Carter Best Achievement in Makeup and HairstylingMakeup & Hairsyling by Camille Friend and Joel Harlow Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures(Original Song)“LIFT ME … Read More 2023 Oscars Challenge: [22] “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (Five Nominations)

Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs Shortlisted for 95th Academy Awards

“Time” from “Amsterdam”Performed by GIVĒONMusic and Lyrics by Drake, GIVĒON and Daniel Pemberton “Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength)” from “Avatar: The Way of Water”Performed by The WeekndMusic and Lyrics by The Weeknd, Swedish House Mafia and Simon Franglen “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”Performed by RihannaMusic and Lyrics by Ludwig Göransson, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, and Tems “This Is A Life” … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs Shortlisted for 95th Academy Awards

2022 Oscars Challenge: [36] “Belfast” (Seven Nominations)

FILM #36 OF 38 94TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2022 OSCARS CHALLENGE“BELFAST”MARCH 23, 2022VUDU DAY 44 OF 48 Best Motion Picture of the YearProduced by Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik and Tamar Thomas Best Achievement in DirectingDirected by Kenneth Branagh Best Performance by an actor in a Supporting RolePerformance by Ciarán Hinds Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting RolePerformance by Judi Dench … Read More 2022 Oscars Challenge: [36] “Belfast” (Seven Nominations)

2022 Oscars Challenge: [30] “No Time To Die” (Three Nominations)

FILM #30 OF 38 94TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2022 OSCARS CHALLENGE“No Time To Die”MARCH 19, 2022VUDU DAY 40 OF 48 Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original SONG)“No Time To Die“Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell Best Achievement in Visual EffectsVisual Effects by Charlie Noble, Joel Green, Jonathan Fawkner and Chris Corbould Best SoundSound Design by Simon Hayes, Oliver … Read More 2022 Oscars Challenge: [30] “No Time To Die” (Three Nominations)

2022 Oscars Challenge: [29] “King Richard” (Six Nominations)

FILM #29 OF 38 94TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2022 OSCARS CHALLENGE“King Richard”MARCH 18, 2022VUDU DAY 39 OF 48 Best Motion Picture of the YearProduced by Tim White, Trevor White and Will Smith Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading RolePerformance by Will Smith Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting RolePerformance by Aunjanue Ellis Best Achievement in Film EditingEdited by Pamela Martin … Read More 2022 Oscars Challenge: [29] “King Richard” (Six Nominations)

2022 Oscars Challenge: [20] “Four Good Days” (One Nomination)

FILM #20 OF 38 94TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2022 OSCARS CHALLENGE“Four Good Days”MARCH 2, 2022HULU DAY 23 OF 48 Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original SONG)“Somehow You Do“Music and Lyric by Diane Warren Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original SONG) Diane Warren PREVIOUS NOMINATIONS 60TH ACADEMY AWARDS (1987)Best Original Song“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now”from “Mannequin”NOMINEE 69TH ACADEMY AWARDS … Read More 2022 Oscars Challenge: [20] “Four Good Days” (One Nomination)

2022 Oscars Challenge: [12] “Encanto” (Three Nominations)

FILM #12 OF 38 94TH ACADEMY AWARDS | 2022 OSCARS CHALLENGE“ENCANTO”FEBRUARY 19, 2022DISNEY+ DAY 12 OF 48 BEST ANIMATED FEATUREProduced by Jared Bush, Byron Howard, Yvett Merino and Clark Spencer Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Score)Composed by Germaine Franco Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original SONG)“Dos Oruguitas”Music and Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda BEST ANIMATED FEATURE Jared Bush … Read More 2022 Oscars Challenge: [12] “Encanto” (Three Nominations)

Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs Pared Down for 94th Academy Award Nomination

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) SHORTLIST: “So May We Start?” from “Annette”Written by Sparks (Russell Mael & Ron Mael)Performed by Sparks, Adam Driver, Marion Cotillard feat. Simon Helberg “Down To Joy” from “Belfast”Written by Van MorrisonPerformed by Van Morrison “Right Where I Belong” from “Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road”Written by Brian WilsonPerformed by Brian Wilson and Jim Hames “Automatic Woman” from “Bruised”Written by H.E.R., Van Hunt, … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs Pared Down for 94th Academy Award Nomination

2021 Oscars Challenge: [13] “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga” — Best Original Song

Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga BEST MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) When aspiring musicians Lars and Sigrit are given the opportunity of a lifetime to represent their country at the world’s biggest song competition, they finally have a chance to prove that any dream worth having is a dream worth fighting for. “Husavik” from “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga”Music and … Read More 2021 Oscars Challenge: [13] “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga” — Best Original Song

2021 Oscars Challenge: [4] “The Life Ahead” — Best Original Song

THE LIFE AHEAD BEST MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) In seaside Italy, a Holocaust survivor with a daycare business, Madame Rosa, takes in 12-year-old Momo, the Senegalese Muslim boy who recently robbed her. The two loners become each other’s protectors, anchoring an unconventional family. “Io Sì (Seen)” from “The Life Ahead”Music by Diane WarrenLyrics by Diane Warren and Laura PausiniPerformed by Laura Pausini Another year, another … Read More 2021 Oscars Challenge: [4] “The Life Ahead” — Best Original Song

Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs Pared Down for 93rd Academy Award Nomination

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) SHORTLIST: “Turntables” from “All In: The Fight for Democracy”Written by Janelle Monáe, Nathaniel Irvin III and George “George 2.0.” A. Peters IIPerformed by Janelle Monáe “See What You’ve Done” from “Belly of the Beast”Written by Mary J. Blige, Darhyl Camper, Jr., Denisia Andrews and Brittany ConeyPerformed by Mary J. Blige “Wuhan Flu” from “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm”Written by Sacha Baron Cohen, Erran … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs Pared Down for 93rd Academy Award Nomination

2020 Oscars Challenge: [26] “Rocketman” — Best Original Song

Elton John is a huge international star that is beloved by millions. Saying his song is a front-runner just for that initial fact is no stretch of the imagination. Add to that, his song has been winning in other venues, including the Golden Globes, and it is definitely the odds-on favorite to win. Personally, I do adhere to the love. Not being a huge Elton John fan, I see the song for what’s it worth. Granted, the entire category is not very inspired, but the “Rocketman” song in particular is lost on me. Now, the only thing that points toward an upset here is the fact that “Rocketman” missed out on other categories this year like Best Actor in a Leading Role for Taron Egerton and even Best Costume Design. That tells me it didn’t have as much support as you’d expect. That being said, unless somehow “Frozen II” or “Harriet” get some support behind it, which their support are both dwindling, I would not expect an anything to be able to upset it.

2020 Oscars Challenge: [21] “Toy Story 4” — Two Nominations

“Toy Story 4” is a Disney/Pixar film, so just by that fact alone it’s a front-runner. The company has a great track record for winning. However, sequels from the animation company are not always a guarantee. One thing that stands out to me is that “Klaus” swept at the Annie Awards. Yes, that’s a different voting body and the Academy members are much more general and may just gravitate toward “Toy Story 4” because of its name. But, I do believe “Klaus” or possibly even “How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” has a chance to upset.

2020 Oscars Challenge: [13] “Frozen II” — Best Original Song

Never count out anyone that’s won two previous awards like Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez have, both for their work with Pixar. However, “Rocketman” is currently the favorite to win because it has been sweeping the awards season.

2020 Oscars Challenge: [9] “Breakthrough” — Best Original Song

Kudos to Diane Warren for getting here for an eleventh time, but the experts place her in dead last. As of now, “Rocketman” is the frontrunner, with “Harriet” and “Frozen II” coming in behind.

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Oscars Shortlist: 15 Original Songs in the Final Round for the 92nd Academy Awards

The Best Original Song category has been narrowed down to fifteen contenders. “Into The Unknown,” the anthem from this year’s “Frozen II,” seems like the only safe bet in this category.

2019 Oscars Challenge: [36] “Mary Poppins Returns” – Four Nominations

“MARY POPPINS RETURNS” Director: Rob MarshallProducers: Rob Marshall, John DeLuca, Marc PlattWriter: David MageeBased On: “Mary Poppins” by P.L. TraversCinematography: Dion BeebeEditor: Wyatt SmithComposer: Marc ShaimanDistributors: Walt Disney PicturesRelease Date: December 19, 2018Budget: $130 millionRun-time: 130 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: Michael Banks, now a widower with three children, and his sister Jane are astonished when their former nanny, Mary Poppins, suddenly returns one day. Aided … Read More 2019 Oscars Challenge: [36] “Mary Poppins Returns” – Four Nominations

2019 Oscars Challenge: [33] “A Star Is Born” – Eight Nominations

“A STAR IS BORN”Bill Gerber, Bradley Cooper and Lynette Howell Taylor Director: Bradley CooperProducers: Ceci Dempsey, Ed Guiney, Lee Magiday and Yorgos LanthimosWriters: Deborah Davis and Tony McNamaraCinematography: Robbie RyanEditor: Yorgos MavropsaridisComposer: Komeil S. HosseiniDistributor: Fox Searchlight PicturesRelease Date: November 23, 2018Budget: $15 millionRun-time: 120 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: When rock star Jackson Maine meets struggling singer Ally, he is impressed by her talent and … Read More 2019 Oscars Challenge: [33] “A Star Is Born” – Eight Nominations

2019 Oscars Challenge: [29] “Black Panther” – Seven Nominations

“BLACK PANTHER”Kevin Feige Director: Ryan CooglerProducers: Kevin FeigeWriters: Ryan Coogler and Joe Robert ColeBased On: “Black Panther” by Stan Lee and Jack KirbyCinematography: Rachel MorrisonEditors: Michael P. Shawver and Debbie BermanComposer: Ludwig GöranssonProduction Company: Marvel StudiosDistributors: Walt Disney PicturesRelease Date: February 16, 2018Budget: $210 millionRun-time: 134 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: After the death of his father, Prince T’Challa returns to his African homeland of Wakanda, … Read More 2019 Oscars Challenge: [29] “Black Panther” – Seven Nominations

2019 Oscars Challenge: [9] “The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs” – Three Nominations

“THE BALLAD OF BUSTER SCRUGGS”Mary Zophres, Gillian Welch, David Rawlings, & The Coen Brothers Directors: Joel and Ethan CoenProducers: Anne Carey, Amy Nauiokas, and David YarnellWriters: Joel and Ethan CoenBased On: “All Gold Canyon” by Jack London and “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward WhiteCinematography: Bruno DelbonnelEditor: Roderick JaynesComposer: Carter BurwellStudio: Annapurna PicturesDistributor: NetflixRelease Date: November 9, 2018Run-time: 133 minutes MARY ZOPHRES … Read More 2019 Oscars Challenge: [9] “The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs” – Three Nominations

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Oscars Watch: 15 Original Songs Shortlisted for 91st Academy Awards

Fifteen songs will advance in the Original Song category for the 91st Academy Awards. Ninety songs were eligible in the category. Members of the Music Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees. The original songs, along with the motion picture in which each song is featured, are listed below in alphabetical order by film title and song title: “When A Cowboy Trades … Read More Oscars Watch: 15 Original Songs Shortlisted for 91st Academy Awards

2018 Oscars Challenge: [44] “Coco” – 2 Nominations

“COCO” Lee Unkrich and Darla K. Anderson Director: Lee Unkrich Producer: Darla K. Anderson Writers: Lee Unkrich, Jason Katz, Matthew Aldrich, & Adrian Molina Editors: Steve Bloom & Lee Unkrich Composer: Michael Giacchino Distributor: Pixar Animation & Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Release Date: November 22, 2017 Run-time: 105 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: Twelve-year-old Miguel Rivera loves to play the guitar, despite his family having banned … Read More 2018 Oscars Challenge: [44] “Coco” – 2 Nominations

2018 Oscars Challenge: [43] “Call Me By Your Name” – 4 Nominations

“CALL ME BY YOUR NAME” Peter Spears, Luca Guadagnino, Emilie Georges and Marco Morabito Director: Luca Guadagnino Producers: Peter Spears, Luca Guadagnino, Emilie Georges and Marco Morabito Writer: James Ivory Cinematography: Sayombhu Mukdeeprom Editor: Walter Fasano Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics Release Date: November 24, 2017 Run-time: 132 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: Seventeen-year-old Elio Perlman lives in Northern Italy with his translator mother and professor father, who … Read More 2018 Oscars Challenge: [43] “Call Me By Your Name” – 4 Nominations

2018 Oscars Challenge: [34] “The Greatest Showman” – Best Original Song

“THIS IS ME” FROM “THE GREATEST SHOWMAN” Music and Lyric by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul Performed By Keala Settle Director: Michael Gracey Producer: Laurence Mark, Peter Chernin, and Jenno Topping Writers: Jenny Bicks and Bill Condon Editors: Tom Cross, Robert Duffy, Joe Hutshing, Michael McCusker, Jon Poll, and Spencer Susser Composers: John Debney and Joseph Trapanese Distributor: 20th Century Fox Release Date: October … Read More 2018 Oscars Challenge: [34] “The Greatest Showman” – Best Original Song

2018 Oscars Challenge: [30] “Mudbound” – 4 Nominations

Director: Dee Rees Producers: Carl Effenson, Sally Jo Effenson, Cassian Elwes, Charles King, Christopher Lemole, Kim Roth, and Tim Zajaros Writers: Virgil Williams & Dee Rees Cinematography: Rachel Morrison Composer: Tamar-kali Distributor: Netflix Release Date: November 17, 2017 Run-time: 134 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: Two soldiers, one black, one white, return to Mississippi following World War II, to discover that their goals in life and ideas … Read More 2018 Oscars Challenge: [30] “Mudbound” – 4 Nominations

2018 Oscars Challenge: [16] “Marshall” – Best Original Song

“STAND UP FOR SOMETHING” FROM “MARSHALL” Music by Diane Warren; Lyric by Lonnie R. Lynn (aka Common) and Diane Warren Performed By Andra Day featuring Common Director: Reginald Hudlin Producer: Paula Wagner, Reginald Hudlin, and Jonathan Sanger Writers: Michael Koskoff and Jacob Koskoff Editor: Tom McArdle Composer: Marcus Miller Distributor: Open Road Films Release Date: October 13, 2017 Run-time: 118 minutes FILM SYNOPSIS: In 1940, … Read More 2018 Oscars Challenge: [16] “Marshall” – Best Original Song

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Oscars Shortlist: 70 Original Songs Shortlisted for 90th Academy Awards

This year’s Best Original Song shortlist features everything from pop artists like Sara Bareilles, Josh Groban, and Taylor Swift & ZAYN to country artists like Brad Paisley, Faith Hill, and Tim McGraw. You’ve got pop bands like Bastille and OneRepublic while legends Stevie Nicks, Pat Benatar, and even Cher have new original music featured on soundtracks. “Weird Al” Yankovic provided the theme to “Captain … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 70 Original Songs Shortlisted for 90th Academy Awards

2017 Oscars Challenge: [15] “Jim: The James Foley Story” – Best Original Song

“THE EMPTY CHAIR” from “JIM: THE JAMES FOLEY STORY” Music and Lyric by J. Ralph and Sting Directed by: Brian Oakes Written by: Chris Chuang, Heather MacDonald, and Brian Oakes Cinematography by: Rachel Beth Anderson, James Foley, Clair Popkin, and Matthew VanDyke Music by: Osei Essed, Saul Simon MacWilliams, and Dan Romer Distributed by: HBO Documentary Films Release Date: February 6, 2016   FILM … Read More 2017 Oscars Challenge: [15] “Jim: The James Foley Story” – Best Original Song

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Oscars Shortlist: 91 Original Songs Shortlisted for 89th Academy Awards

“Just Like Fire” from “Alice through the Looking Glass” – (performed by Pink) “Rise” from “American Wrestler: The Wizard” – (performed by Andy Madadian) “Friends” from “The Angry Birds Movie” – (performed by Blake Shelton) “Flicker” from “Audrie & Daisy” – (performed by Tori Amos) “Seconds” from “Autumn Lights” – (performed by Hjörtur Ingvi Jóhannsson) “A Minute To Breathe” from “Before the Flood” – … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 91 Original Songs Shortlisted for 89th Academy Awards

2016 Oscars Challenge: [30] “Racing Extinction” – Best Original Song

“MANTA RAY” FROM “RACING EXTINCTION” Music by J. Ralph; Lyric by Anohni From the award winning directors of “The Cove” comes another documentary that will leave you absolutely furious with the state of our society and what is deemed acceptable when it comes to depleting natural resources and basically contributing to our own extinctions. Hence the title “Racing Extinction.” Director Louie Psihoyos once again … Read More 2016 Oscars Challenge: [30] “Racing Extinction” – Best Original Song

2016 Oscars Challenge: [29] “Spectre” – Best Original Song

“WRITING’S ON THE WALL” FROM “SPECTRE” Music and Lyric by Jimmy Napes and Sam Smith In 2013, the James Bond series was completely reinvigorated with “Skyfall,” an ode to the character and the franchise while being one of the best films of the year. It garnered five Academy Award nominations and even won two, including Best Original Song. Bond was never a stranger to … Read More 2016 Oscars Challenge: [29] “Spectre” – Best Original Song

2016 Oscars Challenge: [17] “The Hunting Ground” – Best Original Song

“TIL IT HAPPENS TO YOU” FROM “THE HUNTING GROUND” Music and Lyric by Diane Warren and Lady Gaga From the documentary, “The Hunting Ground,” which focuses on the allegations that major universities are covering up their sexual abuse cases as a way to keep people coming to their campuses, Lady Gaga and Diane Warren present a heartfelt ballad to express this emotional hurt that … Read More 2016 Oscars Challenge: [17] “The Hunting Ground” – Best Original Song

2016 Oscars Challenge: [15] “Youth” – Best Original Song

“SIMPLE SONG #3” FROM “YOUTH” Music and Lyric by David Lang What will likely end up being my favorite film of the year, “Youth” is the perfect example of why I continue to take part in this Oscar Challenge, as to discover films I might not otherwise see. With so much range of emotion, with stellar performances all around, “Youth” is not only well … Read More 2016 Oscars Challenge: [15] “Youth” – Best Original Song

2016 Oscars Challenge: [2] “Fifty Shades Of Grey” – Best Original Song

“EARNED IT” FROM “FIFTY SHADES OF GREY” Music and Lyric by The Weeknd, Ahmad Balshe, Jason Daheala Quenneville and Stephan Moccio With The Weeknd’s popularity in 2015, it’s no surprise to see him pop up with an Academy Award nomination for his song in “Fifty Shades Of Grey.” With all the original music in that film, the chances were in its favor for getting … Read More 2016 Oscars Challenge: [2] “Fifty Shades Of Grey” – Best Original Song

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Oscars Shortlist: 74 Original Songs Shortlisted for 88th Academy Awards

From 50 different features, there are 74 songs in contention for Best Original song, from famous artists like Eminem and Ellie Goulding to Hindi artists and composers. My top pick and the song I’ll be vying for at the Oscars is Furious 7’s “See You Again,” by Wiz Khalifa, as it is the perfect song to go with that film, was a hit on … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 74 Original Songs Shortlisted for 88th Academy Awards

2015 Oscars Challenge: [4] Selma – Best Original Song

“GLORY” FROM SELMA Music and Lyrics by John Stephens and Lonnie Lynn John Legend and Common (who also stars in “Selma”) come together to perform the song “Glory,” which plays during the end credits of “Selma”. Under pictures of the cast and their characters, the song’s lyrics hit historical moments from the walk in Selma depicted in the film to the struggles of race … Read More 2015 Oscars Challenge: [4] Selma – Best Original Song

2015 Oscars Challenge: [1] Begin Again – Best Original Song

“LOST STARS” FROM BEGIN AGAIN Music and Lyric by Gregg Alexander and Danielle Brisebois These may be the first Academy Award nominations for songwriters Gregg Alexander and Danielle Brisebois, but director John Carney previously saw his feature “Once” produce a Best Original Song winner in 2006-2007, titled “Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansgard and Markéta Irglová of The Swell Season. So whatever collaborative freedom that … Read More 2015 Oscars Challenge: [1] Begin Again – Best Original Song

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Oscar Shortlist: 79 Original Songs Shortlisted for 87th Academy Awards

If there is absolutely one Oscar category that is impossible to predict every year, it is the Best Original Song. Last year, with a song being deemed ineligible and previous years with only two nominees, the Best Original Song category should get back to normal this year with a shake up in the nominating process. However, predicting this category will still almost be impossible. … Read More Oscar Shortlist: 79 Original Songs Shortlisted for 87th Academy Awards

2014 Oscars Challenge: [30] Her – Five Nominations

Megan Ellison, Spike Jonze and Vincent Landay “Her” was my favorite film of 2014. Not only is Joaquin Phoenix perfectly cast in the film, but the writing and production on screen is absolutely phenomenal. Capturing a future not too far off where a new operating system is released that has artificial intelligence and has its own personality, Phoenix’s introvert character, Theodore Twombly, begins a … Read More 2014 Oscars Challenge: [30] Her – Five Nominations

2014 Oscars Challenge: [28] Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom – One Nomination

“Ordinary Love” – Music by Paul Hewson, Dave Evans, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen; Lyric by Paul Hewson With the real life passing of Nelson Mandela this year, there was no better time for the release of the period piece recollecting a better part of his life, “Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom”. Now, with U2 getting nominated for the song that plays during the end … Read More 2014 Oscars Challenge: [28] Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom – One Nomination

2014 Oscars Challenge: [15] Despicable Me 2 – Two Nominations

Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin and Chris Meledandri The first “Despicable Me” was not nominated for an Academy Award, but this sequel from Universal Pictures has not only captured the box office but the Oscar voters as well. Expanding off the original film, former super villain Gru (voiced by Steve Carrell) turned foster father of three is taken captive by the Anti-Villain League to consult … Read More 2014 Oscars Challenge: [15] Despicable Me 2 – Two Nominations

2014 Oscars Challenge: [2] Frozen – Two Nominations

Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee and Peter Del Vecho Anyone looking for a safe pick for Best Animated Feature should look no further. Touting the Disney brand, “Frozen” is sure to be a favorite upon Oscar predictors, looking at just the Disney track record alone. With a return to form for the animation studio, complete with two Disney princess additions and several memorable musical numbers, … Read More 2014 Oscars Challenge: [2] Frozen – Two Nominations

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Oscars Shortlist: 75 Original Songs Shortlisted for 86th Academy Awards

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: SEVENTY-FIVE ORIGINAL SONGS And we’re down to seventy-five Original Songs, meaning songs that have music and lyrics written specifically for the film they are contained in and apparently, an original song that starts the credits (but none after, which is too bad for the original songs following Coldplay in the credits of “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”). The odds-on favorite to … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 75 Original Songs Shortlisted for 86th Academy Awards

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2013 Oscars Challenge: [31] Life Of Pi – Eleven Nominations

LIFE OF PI BEST PICTURE As strong of a film as “Life Of Pi” is, I do not see it winning Best Picture. In my opinion it’s down to “Argo” and “Lincoln”, with one of them taking the major award. But that doesn’t mean “Life Of Pi” won’t clean up. It’s going to win several awards out of its eleven nominations and it will … Read More 2013 Oscars Challenge: [31] Life Of Pi – Eleven Nominations

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2013 Oscars Challenge: [29] Skyfall – Five Nominations

SKYFALL BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY All I have to say is that this better be Roger Deakins’ year. He’s been nominated ten times now (complete list) and has never won a single Academy Award. Now, he has another shot this year with one of my favorite films of 2012, “Skyfall”, made immensely more enjoyable by the amazing cinematography. With a grandness and epic sense to the … Read More 2013 Oscars Challenge: [29] Skyfall – Five Nominations

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2013 Oscars Challenge: [16] Les Misérables – Eight Nominations

LES MISÉRABLES BEST PICTURE Sadly, despite early buzzing, “Les Misérables” lost its chance of winning Best Picture when it failed to garner both a directing nomination for Tom Hooper and an Adapted Screenplay nomination, both of which are almost a prerequisite for winning the ultimate prize for Best Picture. Since “Les Misérables” failed to reel those nominations in, it will have to settle for … Read More 2013 Oscars Challenge: [16] Les Misérables – Eight Nominations

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2013 Oscars Challenge: [8] Ted – One Nomination

TED Whether you believe Seth MacFarlane’s buddy comedy about a talking bear was nominated because Seth is hosting the Oscars this year is irrelevant, as the Best Original Song category has recently been in shambles anyhow. So, “Ted” getting nominated in this category is equal to “The Muppets” winning last year, and at least there are five nominees this year. That being said, “Ted” … Read More 2013 Oscars Challenge: [8] Ted – One Nomination

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Oscars Shortlist: 75 Original Songs Shortisted for 85th Academy Awards

From Awards Daily: “During the nominations process, all voting members of the Music Branch will receive a Reminder List of works submitted in the category and a DVD copy of the song clips. Members will be asked to watch the clips and then vote in the order of their preference for not more than five achievements in the category. The five achievements receiving the … Read More Oscars Shortlist: 75 Original Songs Shortisted for 85th Academy Awards

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For Your Consideration 2012: Jeff Who Lives At Home

With the continued, never say never attitude that comes along with the Academy Awards, it is very hard to count out “Jeff Who Lives At Home” or The Duplass Brothers in the Original Screenplay category, with the down-home writing and rich, natural characters, there would be little surprise from me if it snagged a nomination. For your consideration in the following categories Best Original … Read More For Your Consideration 2012: Jeff Who Lives At Home

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For Your Consideration 2012: Katy Perry: Part of Me

Katy Perry sneaks into consideration with her original song “Wide Awake”, which was written specifically for her film and which plays during the credits. Although I would assume this will go no further than the consideration stage, who knows what the Best Original Song category will hold this year with new rules and poor showing last year. For your consideration in Best Original Song … Read More For Your Consideration 2012: Katy Perry: Part of Me

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For Your Consideration 2012: Ted

More of a Golden Globes nominee than Academy Awards, the only categories I could see even the slightest potential is Best Original Song, with the “anything goes” mentality that lives in the that current category, and Best Visual Effects, as CGI-ing a stuffed bear as believable as in “Ted” is award-worthy in my book. There are three potential ways this film could break through … Read More For Your Consideration 2012: Ted

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2012 Oscars Challenge: [15] The Muppets & Original Song for the Win

[31 OUT OF 46 FILMS REMAINING]-[24 DAYS TO OSCARS] In such a dismal category this year, Best Original Song most definitely goes to “The Muppets” for the ballad of “Man or Muppet” performed by Gary (Jason Segal) and Walter (Muppet). Though this was not my favorite song of the film (“Pictures In My Head” and “Life’s a Happy Song” were far better), I still … Read More 2012 Oscars Challenge: [15] The Muppets & Original Song for the Win

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2012 Oscars Challenge: [12] Rio & Best Original Song

[34 OUT OF 46 FILMS REMAINING]-[28 DAYS TO OSCARS] First of all, “Real in Rio” wasn’t even the best song in the film “Rio”. “Telling the World” by Taio Cruz and “Take You To Rio” (Remix) performed by Ester Dean, were far better songs in writing and performance than the opening and closing theme of “Real in Rio” which was rather hard to listen … Read More 2012 Oscars Challenge: [12] Rio & Best Original Song

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For Your Consideration 2011: “Raw Faith”

“Raw Faith” is a documentary about a woman of God and her struggles with faith. I am unsure whether or not this film is still being considered, as it did not make the documentary short list of contenders, but the film does contain an original song by Sheryl Crow, so I am speculating that perhaps it is still in contention for that category. As … Read More For Your Consideration 2011: “Raw Faith”

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For Your Consideration 2011: “Gnomeo & Juliet”

Of the eighteen animated films up for consideration for Oscar nomination, “Gnomeo & Juliet” has one of the least chances of making the final cut. The only chances this film has of being nominated is that it is based on a Shakespearean play and it contains original music by Elton John. Unsure of how the Original Song category will pan out, having a name … Read More For Your Consideration 2011: “Gnomeo & Juliet”

2011 Oscars Challenge: Country Strong

2011 Oscar Challenge: “Country Strong” (2010)
>>>>(8 OF 41 FILMS REMAINING)-(2 DAYS TO OSCARS)<<<<

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2011 Oscars Challenge: Toy Story 3

2011 Oscar Challenge: “Toy Story 3” (2010)
>>>>(20 OF 41 FILMS REMAINING)-(15 DAYS TO OSCARS)<<<<

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2011 Oscars Challenge: Tangled

2011 Oscar Challenge: “Tangled” (2010)
>>>>(31 OF 41 FILMS REMAINING)-(24 DAYS TO OSCARS)<<<<

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2011 Oscars Challenge: 127 Hours

2011 Oscar Challenge: “127 Hours” (2010)
>>>>38 of 41 Films Remaining = 29 Days to Oscars<<<<

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2010 Oscars Challenge: Nine

NINE Up For: Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role Best Achievement in Art Direction Best Achievement in Costume Design Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song Absolutely loved this film. Characterization is my favorite part of stories, especially those of superhero stories and the like. Nine was completely filled with characters. The nominations for Nine were deserved but … Read More 2010 Oscars Challenge: Nine

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2010 Oscars Challenge: The Princess and the Frog

THE PRINCESS & THE FROG Up For: Best Animated Feature Film of the Year (2) Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song Where do I begin with The Princess & The Frog? What happened to Disney films? Before viewing Princess & The Frog, I revisited two Disney classics, Aladdin and The Lion King. Now yes, they are classics and therefore rule … Read More 2010 Oscars Challenge: The Princess and the Frog

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2010 Oscars Challenge: Paris 36

PARIS 36 (FAUBOURG 36) Up For: Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song The first thing I told myself was to take the easy way out and simply look up the four individual songs up for nominations (the fifth I had already seen in Crazy Heart) and choose from there without watching the entire films. Instead, I took the leap into … Read More 2010 Oscars Challenge: Paris 36

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2010 Oscars Challenge: Crazy Heart

CRAZY HEART Up For: Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song Where in God’s name is the Best Picture nomination? Crazy Heart was absolutely amazing. By far the best film viewed throughout this journey (Sorry Up In The Air, Thank you Marcus Theaters … Read More 2010 Oscars Challenge: Crazy Heart