Monday, January 31, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Navalny
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
I had one virtual ticket left, and I'm glad I used it to watch “Navalny,” a gripping documentary thriller that won the Festival Favorite award. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Last Flight Home
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Last Flight Home” is a deeply moving and intimate documentary about one man preparing to medically end his life. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sunday, January 30, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Dual
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Dual,” starring a terrific Karen Gillan, was one of the best films I saw at this year's festival. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Honk for Jesus, Save Your Soul
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Honk for Jesus, Save Your Soul” is a church mockumentary most worthwhile for its performances from Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Resurrection
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Resurrection” features a great performance from Rebecca Hall but ultimately wasn't my cup of tea. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: After Yang
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“After Yang” explores an intriguing concept with a strong cast led by Colin Farrell and Jodie Turner-Smith. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Saturday, January 29, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Good Luck to You, Leo Grande
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Good Luck to You, Leo Grande” is a delightful film with equally terrific performances from Emma Thompson and Daryl McCormack. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Fresh
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Fresh” is most definitely not for everyone, but it does feature some great performances from Daisy Edgar-Jones and Sebastian Stan. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Cha Cha Real Smooth
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Cha Cha Real Smooth” was the best film I saw at Sundance this year, another fantastic effort from Cooper Raiff that's now headed to Apple after a $15 million sale. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Palm Trees and Power Lines
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Strong performances from stars Lily McInerny and Jonathan Tucker anchor “Palm Trees and Power Lines,” a disturbing drama that won Jamie Dack a directing prize from the Sundance jury. I reviewed the film for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Friday, January 28, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Am I Ok?
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Am I Ok?” features great performances from Dakota Johnson and Sonoya Mizuno. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Weekend Movie Recommendations with Abe
Every Friday, I'll be uploading a Minute with Abe: Weekend Movie Recommendations Edition, surveying new releases in theaters, on DVD, and on streaming services. Check it out, and subscribe to the movieswithabe channel!
New to Theaters: Compartment No. 6
New to DVD: Dick Johnson is Dead, Moffie, Cicada
New to Hulu: Mayday
Next to HBO Max: The Fallout
New to Theaters: Compartment No. 6
New to DVD: Dick Johnson is Dead, Moffie, Cicada
New to Hulu: Mayday
Next to HBO Max: The Fallout
Thursday, January 27, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Emily the Criminal
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Emily the Criminal” is a decent thriller starring an always terrific Aubrey Plaza. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Phoenix Rising
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Phoenix Rising” spotlights Evan Rachel Wood's advocacy work as she confronts the abuse she suffered as a teenager. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Wednesday, January 26, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Lucy and Desi
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Here's another chance to get to know the Ricardos with “Lucy and Desi,” a documentary about the legendary couple playing at Sundance and coming to Prime Video on March 4th. I reviewed the film for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: My Old School and The Cathedral
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
There are two interesting films that I felt compelled to review together, “My Old School” and and “The Cathedral,” due to their narrative creativity. I reviewed them for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Call Jane
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Call Jane” spotlights early abortion access heroes with a lead performance from Elizabeth Banks. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Interview with Abe: God's Country
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
I had the chance to speak with writer-director Julian Higgins and co-writer Shaye Ogbonna about “God's Country,” which is showing at the Sundance Film Festival. We spoke for ShockYa - watch the full conversation above.
I had the chance to speak with writer-director Julian Higgins and co-writer Shaye Ogbonna about “God's Country,” which is showing at the Sundance Film Festival. We spoke for ShockYa - watch the full conversation above.
Tuesday, January 25, 2022
Interview with Abe: Bianca Stigter
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
I had the chance to speak with Bianca Stigter, director of “Three Minutes - a Lengthening,” which is showing at the Sundance Film Festival. We spoke for ShockYa - watch the full conversation above.
I had the chance to speak with Bianca Stigter, director of “Three Minutes - a Lengthening,” which is showing at the Sundance Film Festival. We spoke for ShockYa - watch the full conversation above.
Interview with Abe: Rory Kennedy
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
I had the chance to speak with Rory Kennedy, director of “Downfall: The Case Against Boeing,” which is showing at the Sundance Film Festival and coming to Netflix on February 18th. We spoke for CinemaDailyUS.com - watch the full conversation above.
I had the chance to speak with Rory Kennedy, director of “Downfall: The Case Against Boeing,” which is showing at the Sundance Film Festival and coming to Netflix on February 18th. We spoke for CinemaDailyUS.com - watch the full conversation above.
Sundance with Abe: Three Minutes - a Lengthening
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Three Minutes - a Lengthening,” which is playing at the Sundance Film Festival in the Spotlight section, is a powerful investigation into a lost time. I reviewed the film for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Happening
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“Happening,” which won a major prize at the Venice Film Festival and is now showing at the Sundance Film Festival ahead of a May release by IFC Films, is a difficult but powerful film. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Monday, January 24, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Sharp Stick
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Lena Dunham is back with “Sharp Stick,” which is playing at the Sundance Film Festival in the Premieres section, and which I seem to have liked more than most people. I reviewed the film for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Alice
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Keke Palmer stars in the intriguing and compelling “Alice,” which made its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: 892
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
John Boyega stars opposite the late Michael Kenneth Williams in “892,” which is playing at the Sundance Film Festival in the U.S. Dramatic Competition section. I reviewed the film for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Sunday, January 23, 2022
Sundance with Abe: A Love Song
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
“A Love Song,” which is playing in the NEXT section at the Sundance Film Festival, is a slow, quiet romance with strong performances from Dale Dickey and Wes Studi. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Living
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Bill Nighy stars in “Living,” which made its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Sundance with Abe: Tantura
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
The documentary “Tantura” which made its premiere at Sundance in the World Cinema Documentary Competition section, presents harsh truths about the foundation of Israel in a less than entirely responsible way. I reviewed the film for ShockYa - head over there to read my review.
Saturday, January 22, 2022
Sundance with Abe: Emergency
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Donald Elise Watkins and RJ Cyler star in “Emergency,” which made its world premiere at Sundance in the U.S. Dramatic Competition section. I reviewed the film for The Film Experience - head over there to read my review.
Friday, January 21, 2022
Sundance with Abe: When You Finish Saving the World
I’m thrilled to be covering the Sundance Film Festival for the ninth time. This year, I’m not again not in Park City, Utah, but watching films virtually and reviewing them as soon as I can.
Jesse Eisenberg makes his directorial debut with “When You Finish Saving the World,” which made its world premiere at Sundance and will be released later by A24. I reviewed the film for CinemaDailyUS.com - head over there to read my review.
Weekend Movie Recommendations with Abe
Every Friday, I'll be uploading a Minute with Abe: Weekend Movie Recommendations Edition, surveying new releases in theaters, on DVD, and on streaming services. Check it out, and subscribe to the movieswithabe channel!
New to DVD: Last Night in Soho, Hive, Time
New to Netflix: Munich: The Edge of War, Phantom Thread
New to Amazon Prime Video: A Hero
Next to Hulu: Marjorie Prime, Serious Moonlight, Georgetown
New to DVD: Last Night in Soho, Hive, Time
New to Netflix: Munich: The Edge of War, Phantom Thread
New to Amazon Prime Video: A Hero
Next to Hulu: Marjorie Prime, Serious Moonlight, Georgetown
Thursday, January 20, 2022
Movie with Abe: Munich: The Edge of War
Tuesday, January 18, 2022
Movie with Abe: Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy
Monday, January 17, 2022
Interview with Abe: Last Night in Soho
Friday, January 14, 2022
Weekend Movie Recommendations with Abe
Every Friday, I'll be uploading a Minute with Abe: Weekend Movie Recommendations Edition, surveying new releases in theaters, on DVD, and on streaming services. Check it out, and subscribe to the movieswithabe channel!
New to Theaters: Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America, Belle
New to Theaters and VOD: Italian Studies
New to DVD: Dune, Mass, Ema, MLK/FBI, Spencer, Minyan
New to Netflix: The God Committee
Next to Hulu: Black Bear, I’m Your Man, Bergman Island
New to Apple TV+: The Tragedy of Macbeth
New to Theaters: Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America, Belle
New to Theaters and VOD: Italian Studies
New to DVD: Dune, Mass, Ema, MLK/FBI, Spencer, Minyan
New to Netflix: The God Committee
Next to Hulu: Black Bear, I’m Your Man, Bergman Island
New to Apple TV+: The Tragedy of Macbeth
Thursday, January 13, 2022
Movie with Abe: Belle
Wednesday, January 12, 2022
SAG Nominees: Best Ensemble in a Motion Picture
Who’s missing? The Power of the Dog, West Side Story, Mass, The Harder They Fall, Being the Ricardos
Yikes. I did worst in this category, naming only one nominee – CODA – which did make the cut, and I’m so happy it did. The rest of the list is a bit more perplexing. I correctly predicted that “The Power of the Dog” would miss out, despite its three individual nominations, while Belfast, which only managed one, did get in. It’s just as puzzling that King Richard scored here since supporting actress Aunjanue Ellis was left off, while Don’t Look Up, which didn’t get any individual bids, also got in, which doesn’t thrill me. The big surprise is House of Gucci, which has two performers nominated and which definitely showcases a lot of acting, however excessive it may be. This is bad news for “Mass” and not a great development for “West Side Story.” It would also have been nice to see a truly ensemble effort like “The Harder They Fall” here.
Who will win? I’m not so sure. I’d love for it to be “CODA” but I’d also be happy with Belfast, which might be the frontrunner now.
SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Supporting Role
Who’s missing? Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard), Marlee Matlin (CODA), Ann Dowd (Mass)
The big snub here is Ellis, though Amanda Seyfried bounced back from that omission last year and Regina King even managed to win without it. The beneficiary of the open slot is Cate Blanchett (Nightmare Alley), which makes me very happy since she was terrific in a film that hasn’t been consistently attracting attention. I had expected Ruth Negga (Passing) to miss here, but now she’s looking stronger for an Oscar nomination, even if her film hasn’t earned much attention. Caitriona Balfe (Belfast) is the only member of her cast to be nominated, and she’s also the only one in this category to have her ensemble cited. Golden Globe winner Ariana DeBose (West Side Story) is the lone representative of her film, while Kirsten Dunst (The Power of the Dog) has two of her costars nominated.
Who will win? I think DeBose can win here unless Dunst prevails.
SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role
Who’s missing? Ciarán Hinds (Belfast), Jamie Dornan (Belfast)
It’s strange to see the two “Belfast” boys snubbed, especially since the film made it into the ensemble race, where I had expected it to be snubbed. Though his film – which is one of my favorites of the year – isn’t cited elsewhere, Bradley Cooper (Licorice Pizza) got in for a very minor albeit admittedly entertaining role. Ben Affleck (The Tender Bar) also repeated his Golden Globe mention here, which is nice. Jared Leto (House of Gucci) joins the race for an over-the-top performance SAG voters obviously loved since they cited his ensemble too. I’m very happy that Troy Kotsur (CODA) didn’t get omitted, and he joins the frontrunner, Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog).
Who will win? I think Smit-McPhee is far enough ahead to win without a problem.
SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Leading Role
Who’s missing? Kristen Stewart (Spencer), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), Tessa Thompson (Passing), Rachel Zegler (West Side Story)
This is the biggest snub of the day and likely the season. Even if she wasn’t going to be the winner, Stewart was expected to be a nominee. The surprise win at the Golden Globes by Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos) added a bit of competition to this race, but the absence of Stewart here is a real shock. The beneficiary of the open slot was Jennifer Hudson (Respect), who was originally expected to be a major contender and had dropped off throughout much of the precursors. She joins Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye) and Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter), both here on their own, and Lady Gaga (House of Gucci), who gets an unexpected boost from her film’s inclusion in the ensemble category.
Who will win? With Stewart out of the race, it’s anyone’s guess. I think Gaga might actually win, but it could be Kidman or Colman too.
SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Leading Role
Who’s missing? Peter Dinklage (Cyrano), Nicolas Cage (Pig)
This category starts with an unexpected inclusion, a holdover from the Golden Globes that felt far from a sure thing: Javier Bardem (Being the Ricardos). I liked him in the film and I’m fine with it, though it does mean that Dinklage didn’t get a boost that he needed for a film that’s flown somewhat under the radar. The rest of the list here is expected, boosting frontrunners Will Smith (King Richard) and Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog) and making it look likelier and likelier that Andrew Garfield (tick, tick…BOOM!) and Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth) will join them at the Oscars.
Who will win? This should still go to Smith based on this list.
Tuesday, January 11, 2022
Movie with Abe: Drive My Car
Monday, January 10, 2022
Movie with Abe: The 355
Sunday, January 9, 2022
SAG Predictions: Best Ensemble in a Motion Picture
This category is the most competitive of all the races, and given its historical precedent for surprises, could include anything. West Side Story seems like the only true safe bet, since something like The Power of the Dog or Belfast, which should be sure things, might be snubbed like other presumed locks in the past. The Harder They Fall, which has been an inconsistent player this awards season, may be rewarded here. Don’t Look Up, King Richard, or Nightmare Alley could benefit from waves of support, while Licorice Pizza has been collecting a number of citations despite not really being an ensemble piece. Being the Ricardos is another possibility, as are CODA and Mass. I’m going to be bold and predict that both the juggernauts in this race get omitted.
Current predictions:
Being the Ricardos
CODA
The Harder They Fall
Mass
West Side Story
SAG Predictions: Best Female Actor in a Supporting Role
This category, like the others, seems to have four pretty solid bets and a more open fifth slot. Kirsten Dunst (The Power of the Dog), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard), Ariana DeBose (West Side Story), and Caitriona Belfast (Belfast) are at the head of the pack. The fifth spot could be for Golden Globe nominee Ruth Negga (Passing), Critics Choice picks Ann Dowd (Mass) or Rita Moreno (West Side Story), or maybe Marlee Matlin (CODA). Or will it be someone else altogether?
Current predictions:
Caitriona Belfast (Belfast)
Ariana DeBose (West Side Story)
Kirsten Dunst (The Power of the Dog)
Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard)
Marlee Matlin (CODA)
Saturday, January 8, 2022
SAG Predictions: Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role
Looking at critics’ prizes and nominations lists, it seems like four men are probably set here: Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog), Ciarán Hinds (Belfast), Jamie Dornan (Belfast), and Troy Kotsur (CODA). It’s not likely that the Golden Globes choice for the fifth slot, Ben Affleck (The Tender Bar) will repeat here, but a questionable nominee from last year, Jared Leto (House of Gucci) could return instead. Leto was selected along with J.K. Simmons (Being the Ricardos) by the Critics Choice Association. Other possibilities include Mike Faist (West Side Story), Jason Isaacs (Mass), or Jesse Plemons (The Power of the Dog), or maybe someone completely surprising.
Current predictions:
Jamie Dornan (Belfast)
Ciarán Hinds (Belfast)
Troy Kotsur (CODA)
Jared Leto (House of Gucci)
Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog)
SAG Predictions: Best Female Actor in a Leading Role
This list seems relatively firmed up, but it’s possible someone will drop off now or just end up getting snubbed at the Oscars. At the head of the pack are Kristen Stewart (Spencer), Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter), and Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos). Next up might be Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye) and Lady Gaga (House of Gucci), though they could be overtaken by Rachel Zegler (West Side Story), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), Jennifer Hudson (Respect), Tessa Thompson (Passing), Frances McDormand (The Tragedy of Macbeth), or Penelope Cruz (Parallel Mothers).
Current predictions:
Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye)
Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter)
Lady Gaga (House of Gucci)
Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos)
Kristen Stewart (Spencer)
SAG Predictions: Best Male Actor in a Leading Role
This category has two sure things, but beyond that, I don’t think anything is certain. Will Smith (King Richard) and Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog) are at the head of the pack, and I would rank Andrew Garfield (tick, tick…BOOM!) and Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth) next. Theoretically, Peter Dinklage (Cyrano) could round out the group, but he’ll hand to fend off Leonardo DiCaprio (Don’t Look Up), who could easily bump one of these men. Nicolas Cage (Pig) and Joaquin Phoenix (C’mon C’mon) are also still possible, as are Clifton Collins Jr. (Jockey), Mahershala Ali (Swan Song), Javier Bardem (Being the Ricardos), Bradley Cooper (Nightmare Alley), or Oscar Isaac (The Card Counter). It’s a dream, but wouldn’t it be wonderful if Jude Hill (Belfast) snuck onto this list?
Current predictions:
Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog)
Peter Dinklage (Cyrano)
Andrew Garfield (tick, tick…BOOM!)
Will Smith (King Richard)
Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth)
Friday, January 7, 2022
Weekend Movie Recommendations with Abe
Every Friday, I'll be uploading a Minute with Abe: Weekend Movie Recommendations Edition, surveying new releases in theaters, on DVD, and on streaming services. Check it out, and subscribe to the movieswithabe channel!
New to Theaters: A Hero, The 355
New to DVD: Stop and Go, Together
New to Netflix: Big Fish, Hell or High Water
New to Amazon Prime Video: Once, The Tender Bar
Next to Hulu: Amistad, Once Upon a Time in the West, The Squid and the Whale, Se7en
New to Theaters: A Hero, The 355
New to DVD: Stop and Go, Together
New to Netflix: Big Fish, Hell or High Water
New to Amazon Prime Video: Once, The Tender Bar
Next to Hulu: Amistad, Once Upon a Time in the West, The Squid and the Whale, Se7en
Thursday, January 6, 2022
Golden Globe Winner Predictions: Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical
Cyrano is directed by Joe Wright, marking his eighth film. Star Peter Dinklage is nominated for his performance.
Don’t Look Up is directed by Adam McKay, marking his ninth film. Stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence are nominated for their performances, and it also contends for its screenplay.
Licorice Pizza is directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, marking his ninth film. Stars Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman are nominated for their performances, and it also contends for its screenplay.
tick, tick…BOOM! is directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, marking his directorial debut. Star Andrew Garfield is nominated for his performance.
West Side Story is directed by Steven Spielberg, marking his thirty-third film. Stars Rachel Zegler and Ariana DeBose are nominated for their performances, and Spielberg contends for his direction.
Additional notes: Prior to last year, when “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm” won this prize, the winner of this award had gone on to be nominated for the Oscar for Best Picture ten years in a row, triumphing there twice, in 2011 for “The Artist” and last year for “Green Book.” Despite a musical being nominated almost every year since, the last such film to win this prize was “Les Miserables” in 2012. The original “West Side Story” won the Best Motion Picture – Musical prize exactly sixty years ago.
What should win? “Licorice Pizza” is one of my favorite films of the year. I’d also be fine with “tick, tick…BOOM!” or “West Side Story” triumphing.
What will win? This seems like a pretty easy victory for West Side Story.
Golden Globe Winner Predictions: Best Motion Picture – Drama
Belfast is directed by Kenneth Branagh, marking his seventeenth film. It is tied for the nominations leader, also contending for its director, screenplay, song, and performances from actors Jamie Dornan, Ciarán Hinds, and Caitriona Balfe.
CODA is directed by Sian Heder, marking her second film. Supporting actor Troy Kotsur has the film’s only other mention.
Dune is directed by Denis Villeneuve, marking his tenth film. It also contends for its directing and its score.
King Richard is directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, marking his third film. It also contends for its song and performances from stars Will Smith and Aunjanue Ellis.
The Power of the Dog is directed by Jane Campion, marking her eighth film. It is tied for the nominations leader, also contends for its directing, screenplay, score, and performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and Kirsten Dunst.
Additional notes: The winner of this award has gone on to win the Oscar for Best Picture only five times in the past fifteen years, and only three times in the entire history of the Globes, most recently in 1963, has the winner been snubbed altogether at the Oscars. Only “Belfast” and “The Power of the Dog” have both their screenplays and director nominated.
What should win? Well, “CODA” is my favorite film of the year and “Belfast” and “Dune” are also in my top ten, so any of those will do! I’m fine with “The Power of the Dog” too, even if it’s not at the top of my list.
What will win? I’m not sure, but I think The Power of the Dog is ahead here.
Golden Globe Winner Predictions: Best Director – Motion Picture
Kenneth Branagh (Belfast) directs his seventeenth film. He has four previous nominations for acting, most recently in 2011 for “My Week with Marilyn.” He is also nominated for writing his film, which is tied as the nominations leader.
Denis Villeneuve (Dune) directs his tenth film. This is his first Globe nomination. His film is also nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama and its score.
Maggie Gyllenhaal (The Lost Daughter) makes her directorial debut. She has four previous nominations for acting, winning in 2014 for “The Honourable Woman.” Her film also contends for its performance from star Olivia Colman.
Jane Campion (The Power of the Dog) directs her eighth film, which also earned her a nomination for writing. She was previously nominated in both categories in 1993 for “The Piano.” Her film is tied as the nominations leader.
Steven Spielberg (West Side Story) directs his thirty-third film. He has an impressive twelve previous nominations in this category and one for screenwriting, plus he received the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2007. He won twice, in 1993 for “Schindler’s List” and in 1998 for “Saving Private Ryan.” His film is nominated for Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical and its stars Rachel Zegler and Ariana DeBose.
Additional notes: The winner of this award has gone on to win the corresponding Oscar eight times out of the past fifteen years, with only Ben Affleck missing out on a nomination altogether. In all but two cases, the winner of this race has also won the corresponding top prize (drama, comedy, or foreign). Two women have won this award in the past – Barbra Streisand in 1983 for “Yentl” and Chloe Zhao last year for “Nomadland.” Only “The Lost Daughter” is not nominated for a best picture award.
Who should win? These are all strong choices. I think my pick would be Branagh or Villeneuve.
Who will win? It could be Spielberg, but I think Campion wins.
Wednesday, January 5, 2022
Golden Globe Winner Predictions: Best Screenplay – Motion Picture
Being the Ricardos was written by Aaron Sorkin. He has eight previous nominations in this category, with three wins, for “The Social Network” in 2010, “Steve Jobs” in 2015, and “The Trial of the Chicago 7” last year, which also earned him a nomination for directing. His film’s stars Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem are also nominated.
Belfast was written by Kenneth Branagh. He has four previous nominations for acting, most recently in 2011 for “My Week with Marilyn.” He is also nominated for directing his film, which is tied as the nominations leader.
Don’t Look Up was written by Adam McKay. This is his third nomination in this category, following “The Big Short” in 2015 and “Vice” in 2018, which also earned him a nomination for directing. The film is also nominated for Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical and stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence.
Licorice Pizza was written by Paul Thomas Anderson. This is his first Globe nomination. The film is also nominated for Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical and stars Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman.
The Power of the Dog was written by Jane Campion, who is also nominated this year for Best Director. She was previously nominated in both categories in 1993 for “The Piano.” Her film is tied as the nominations leader.
Additional notes: The winner of this category has gone on to win one of the two corresponding Oscar prizes eight times in the past fifteen years, and only once in that time has ended up being snubbed altogether. A Best Director nomination isn’t crucial here to a win, but it does help.
What should win? This is a good list, but “Belfast” and “Licorice Pizza” really stick out as the best. I’d probably choose the latter.
What will win? I’m honestly not sure. Maybe Belfast?
Golden Globe Winner Predictions: Best Original Song
Down to Joy (Belfast) was written by Van Morrison, marking his first nomination. The film is the nominations leader.
Dos Oruguitas (Encanto) was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. He was nominated in this category in 2016 for a song from “Moana” and twice for his performances, in “Hamilton” and “Mary Poppins Returns.” The film is also nominated for Best Animated Film and Best Original Score.
Be Alive (King Richard) was written by Beyoncé and Dixson. She has three previous nominations in this category, for “The Lion King,” “Cadillac Records,” and “Dreamgirls.” She was also nominated for her performance in “Dreamgirls.” This is Dixson’s first nomination. The film is also up for Best Motion Picture – Drama and for stars Will Smith and Aunjanue Ellis.
No Time to Die (No Time to Die) was written by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell. It’s the first nomination for both, and represents the only bid for the film.
Here I Am (Singing My Way Home) (Respect) was written by Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Hartman, and Carole King. This is the first nomination for Hartman and King. Hudson won her previous bid, which was for acting in “Dreamgirls” in 2006. This is the only nomination for the film.
Additional notes: All five of these songs made the fifteen-wide finalist list for the corresponding Oscar category. The winner of this award has gone on to win the Oscar seven times out of the past fifteen years, though six of the remaining times the winner wasn’t even nominated there. Eight James Bond songs have been nominated in the past, and the two most recent entries – from “Skyfall” and “Spectre” – won.
What should win? It’s a good list, but it has to be “No Time to Die.”
What will win? I don’t see how it’s anything but No Time to Die.
Golden Globe Winner Predictions: Best Original Score
Dune was composed by Hans Zimmer, marking his fourteenth nomination. He won in 1994 for “The Lion King” and in 2000 for “Gladiator.” This is his second collaboration with director Denis Villeneuve after “Blade Runner 2049.” His film is also nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama and Best Director.
Encanto was composed by Germaine Franco. This is her first nomination and her first collaboration with directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush. Her film is also nominated for Best Animated Film and Best Song.
The French Dispatch was composed by Alexandre Desplat, marking his fifth collaboration with director Wes Anderson. He was nominated last year for “The Midnight Sky,” in 2019 for “Little Women,” in 2018 for “Isle of Dogs,” and won in 2017 for “The Shape of Water.” He has eight other previous nominations, including another win, for “The Painted Veil” for 2006. This is the only nomination for his film.
Parallel Mothers was composed by Alberto Iglesias, marking his twelfth collaboration with director Pedro Almodóvar. He was previously nominated for “The Kite Runner” in 2007. His film is also nominated for Best Non-English Language Film.
The Power of the Dog was composed by Jonny Greenwood. He was previously nominated for “Phantom Thread” in 2017. This is his first collaboration with director Jane Campion. His film is tied as the nominations leader.
Additional notes: The winner of this award has gone on to win the corresponding Oscar eleven times in the past fifteen years, failing to receive a nomination just three times. All five of these scores made the fifteen-wide finalist list for this year’s Oscar category.
What should win? I think “Dune” and “The Power of the Dog” made the strongest impressions on me, though I also distinctly remember hearing and liking “Parallel Mothers” in its opening moments.
What will win? I think Dune wins this.