Luke predicted the Oscars—and almost got it

Illustration+by+Adelyn+Sim+%E2%80%9924

Illustration by Adelyn Sim ’24

It is that time of year again: Let us all rejoice as the Oscar season comes upon us. It is exciting for film lovers and critics alike, as we can all argue about who will win what and how we feel about the event itself. Given the controversies of last year’s ceremony, hopefully we can all be excited for an awards show without any mishaps or incidents of aggravated assault. In anticipation of this event, here are some of my predictions for the winning movies based on selected categories.

Best Director: Martin McDonagh for “The Banshees of Inisherin.”

McDonagh has been nominated for several Academy Awards at this point and has never won, so he’s a classic pick to win. The playwright-turned-director wrote and directed “Banshees” specifically for his actors, and the performances he elicited from his two leads were a central reason why the film was successful.

Best Lead Actor: Austin Butler for “Elvis.”

Austin Butler put himself on the map this year with his incredibly dedicated performance as the historic rock and roll star. Butler changed his mannerisms and voice for Elvis in a way that appeals to Oscar voters and wowed many critics in its initial theatrical debut.

Best Lead Actress: Michelle Yeoh for “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

This one shouldn not be a shock. For months on end, people have given “Everything Everywhere All at Once” its deserved acclaim. Yeoh’s performance was a major part of this positive press, and she has already won Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes.

Best Supporting Actor: Ke Huy Quan for “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

Quan’s performance in the film was incredible, but what will appeal to Oscar voters even more is the story behind his performance. A former child star known for his work in “Indiana Jones” and “Goonies,” Quan was unable to find an acting role for decades until “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” This kind of story was one that should deeply appeal to Oscar voters.

Best Supporting Actress: Stephanie Hsu for “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

Hear me out on this one. While in all likelihood this award will probably go to Angela Bassett or Jamie Lee Curtis, there is a small yet exciting chance that Hsu might win for her incredible performance in “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

Best Adapted Screenplay: “All Quiet on the Western Front.”

I do not think this is the best screenplay to be nominated, but I honestly do noy think the Academy could possibly give this award to “Top Gun: Maverick” or the second “Knives Out” film. It is an adaptation of a classic novel. What more could you ask for?

Best Original Screenplay: “Tár.”

Tár is an incredible film that I have a strong suspicion will be snubbed this season, but we will just have to see what happens with it.

Best Cinematography: “Tár.”

While many others and I were disappointed that “The Batman” was not included in this category, Todd Field’s filmwas the only one of those nominated with a visual storytelling language that I think truly succeeded.

Best Picture: “Everything Everywhere all at Once.”

Love it or hate it, this film received the most Oscar buzz since its premiere last March. The film’s inventive storytelling and worldbuilding succeeded in winning over viewers who do not typically enjoy works of science fiction or fantasy, and its central narrative of family has connected to many people.