Beverly Hills, January 22: The stage is all set for Thursday’s Academy Award nominations that promise an absorbing contest between two exceptional movies - “The Dark Knight” and “Slumdog Millionaire”.
“The Dark Knight”, a tale about a superhero, has met stupendous success at the box-office. The movie has been such a trendsetter that it has elevated the comic-book genre to the best picture terrain.
“Slumdog Millionaire”, on the other hand, has become the critics’ firm favorite. What is even more intriguing is the way the film’s rags-to-riches idea effectively reflects its climb up the success ladder.
On his first death anniversary, Heath Ledger, who played Batman’s nemesis, the Joker, in “The Dark Knight”, is expected to get a supporting actor nomination for his intense performance. Throughout this award season, Ledger has been the hot favorite.
Though initially it was believed that the movie had an outside chance in top categories, its quest for best picture, director and screenplay acquired impetus after it got across-the-board nominations from almost all Hollywood guilds.
“Slumdog Millionaire” arrived on the awards scene after its premieres at film festivals late last summer, a time when “The Dark Knight” was raking in the moolah at the domestic box-office. Besides, it won awards in 4 categories, including one for best drama, at the Golden Globes.
“The Dark Knight” takes forward the saga that Christopher Nolan began with “Batman Begins”. The film boasts of top Hollywood cast that comprises Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman and Gary Oldman.
Danny Boyle’s “Slumdog Millionaire”, a story that traces the rise of a youth from struggle on the streets of Mumbai to fame and fortune, has a fresh cast.
Other movies in the running for the best picture nomination are “Frost/Nixon”, “Milk”, “Doubt”, “Revolutionary Road” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”.
Frank Langella who played Nixon in “Frost/Nixon” and Sean Penn who led the way as a champion of gay rights in “Milk” are probable nominees in the best actor category.
Oscar nominees are selected by particular branches from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that include actors, writers and directors.
The 81st Oscar ceremony will be held on Feb. 22. It would be telecast on ABC from Hollywood’s Kodak Theatre.
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