Goldderby.com odds have Sideways leading in this category 8/5.
I’m fine with that. It probably isn’t the best adaptation of the year but it’s probably the best one in this bunch. I actually prefer Before Sunset as a movie, but that’s not because of the screenplay. Much of that film feels unrehearsed and lacks the structure that I associate with an accomplished screenplay. It’s the same problem I had giving Lost in Translation a win over Dirty Pretty Things. Translation’s the better film, Things is the better screenplay. Also, how does Sunset count as an adapted screenplay? Adapted from what? The characters created for the first film? If that’s the case, then every sequel to an original screenplay is an adapted screenplay. Academy, you so crazy.
WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
The Aviator
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Hotel Rwanda
The Incredibles
Vera Drake
Will Win: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Should Win: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
This award usually goes to the hip indie film du jour. Think Pulp Fiction. Though this doesn’t have the cache or cash of that landmark, it’s still got quite a following. Second only to Sideways in critic’s circle awards, it’s also got the WGA seal of approval. Goldderby agrees to the tune of 5/2 odds.
That’s good news for Charlie Kaufman who, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, is the greatest screenwriter working today. Sunshine is a masterpiece and, like The Incredibles, deserves many more noms, but I’ll be happy just to see Kaufman, on his third attempt, finally get his papers.
Also, how is Vera Drake up in here? Isn’t Mike Leigh known for his improvisation and, y’know, not using a screenplay?
Tomorrow, the preview conlcludes with the Bening/Swank rematch – oh, and if there’s time, Best Picture.
Article comments
1 - DrPat
I haven't made the study of it that you obviously have, David, but I think the Academy might award The Passion of the Christ in this category to make up for its non-nomination to any of the top 6 major award categories.
2 - El Bicho
If the Academy does give The Passion best cinematography, it will be have nothing to do with any sort of make-up for non-nominations because the film wasn't in the top five in any of those categories. It's a good film, but not a great one.