Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Oscars: Tribute To The Fallen: Weekend (2011)

Hello, Bloggers, welcome to another episode of Tribute To The Fallen where I discuss films that weren't nominated at the Oscars, yet in my opinion should have been. Today's film is one that wasn't really much of a contender, but was still tragically overlooked. That is the gay British dramedy Weekend.


Now, one would think that because it is a gay film and a British film, it would attract a lot of buzz. But usually, whenever LGBT films are recognized, it is usually ones where the main gay characters are painted as martyrs or saints trying to overcome the odds, whether they are battling AIDS or fighting for equal rights. Films with a more external struggle. But the two main characters here are dealing with normal relationship issues and one of them faces an internal struggle of coming out. Although that same year, they did give an Oscar to Christopher Plummer for Beginners and his character wasn't portrayed as a martyr or a saint. So that was a refreshing change of pace. Plus, while voters like British dramas, they usually like their Brits when they don a corset or play famed figures, especially monarchs.

Next, I'll go into the categories in which I think it deserved attention. First off, there is Best Picture. Not just because I thought it was better than a good amount of films that were in the actual category, but because it would've been a great opportunity to shine a light on a gay film that transcends being just a gay film because it is something both LGBT and straight audiences can connect with. There is also Best Original Screenplay and Best Director for Andrew Haigh, and of course Best Actor for both Tom Cullen and Chris New. Because of how both actors compliment each other's arc, to recognize one is to recognize the other and it would make sense to put them in the same category.

So those are my thoughts on why I think Weekend deserved some Oscar love. Whether you agree or disagree, please feel free to write your thoughts in the comments section. Thanks for reading!

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