Every year, there are several actors and movies that get Oscar snubs, but many are not aware that there is also some, or a major, lack of diversity in Oscar nominations. For the last two years however, this has become more evident, especially in 2016 with 20 white actors and four out of five directors were nominated for Academy Awards. Here are 10 talents that should have not been overlooked.
1. Will Smith – “Concussion”
The two-time nominee should have been a third-time nominee this year after his portrayal of Dr. Bennet Omalu in Concussion, a daring movie that allowed Smith to visit his most highly skilled tendencies.
2. Michael B. Jordan – “Creed”
Although the film brought Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa character back to the screen, his character was not the only compelling one. Surprisingly, being the protagonist of the film and portraying it strongly is not enough for the Academy. However, if Jordan held his own the year he got snubbed Best Actor for his performance on “Fruitvale Station,” he probably will do the same this year.
3. Benicio del Toro – “Sicario”
Even if he did win an Oscar for best supporting actor, back in 2000 for Traffic, he deserved a nomination. Yet again, for his shocking performance in the critically acclaimed Thriller film.
4. F. Gary Gray – “Straight Outta Compton”
This film and music video director put together the stories of the N.W.A members, and took note of what made the group essential. He brought these captivating stories to light for fans all over the world. Unfortunately, the film did not captivate the Academy enough.
5. Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and/or Mya Taylor – “Tangerine”
First-time actress Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and newcomer Mya Taylor were part of the highly acclaimed movie that was filmed on an iPhone, this should speak for itself but they were also overlooked.
6. Idris Elba - "Beasts of No Nation"
After starring as Nelson Mandela in "Long Walk to Freedom," Elba made a good impression, but this year he did not make a good enough impression for The Academy with his role as a ruthless militant commandant.
7. Oscar Isaac – “Ex Machina”
After his performance in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” the Cuban-Guatemalan actor impressed the Internet, but did not impress The Academy enough with his performance as a drunken zillionaire who basically created the best artificial intelligence ever.
8. Ryan Coogler – “Creed”
This director was also snubbed with his direction in “Fruitvale Station,” a moving film dedicated to the life of Oscar Grant who was brutally murdered by police. This year he brought back one of the most beloved franchises in movie history, but was overlooked by The Academy once again.
9. John Boyega – “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”
How did the English 23-year-old not get a nomination after he gave one of the most lovable, thrilling and hilarious performances, I will never know.
10. Teyonah Parris –“Chi-Raq”
After playing the first major black character on Mad Men, Parris got the attention of the audience with her portrayal of Lysistrata. As the New York Times said, “she is more than capable of delivering multilayered performances that undercut expectations.”
There is no surprise here that the Oscar nomination list lacked in actors and actresses across all races, this has been going on for years. The problem is pervasive and definitely unsettling, which is why some actors and people who regularly watch the Oscars are deciding to boycott by not showing up or watching. Let’s hope Hollywood turns things around next year.
