Since 2023 Oscar Nominations were announced, a complex debate erupted over Andrea Riseborough’s Best Actress nomination for her performance in the indie drama To Leslie. Following the actress’ nomination, to the astonishment of many at the event, the Academy announced a “review” of campaign procedures around this year’s nominees. A decision of the Academy which yellow jackets cast member Christina Ricci took a hit with a brutally honest condemnation.
The Academy said it would review campaign procedures around this year’s nominees to ensure “the awards competition is conducted in a fair and ethical manner.” While Andrea Riseborough and To Leslie was not explicitly mentioned, many read between the lines. In an Instagram comment (via Independent), them Wednesday alum pointed out how the Academy’s decision was “elitist” and an attempt to disqualify films that don’t have enough money to campaign aggressively. The actress wrote:
It seems hilarious that the “surprise nomination” (meaning tons of money wasn’t spent positioning this actress) for a legitimately brilliant performance is being investigated. So only films and actors can afford campaigns that deserve recognition? Feels elitist and exclusive and, frankly, very backward to me. And I’m sure it has nothing to do with the campaign. These things are not controlled or decided by the actors themselves, and yet now her nomination will be tainted by this, and if removed, shame on them.
The findings of the investigation are expected to be announced on Tuesday, January 31, and it’s possible, but unlikely, according to The varietythat his appointment will be revoked.
What surprised many about Andrea Riseborough’s Oscar attention was how much the film flew under the radar. To Leslie barely made more than $27,000 at the box office, and many hadn’t heard of it.
The filmmaker behind the drama reported to Deadline that they had “almost no budget” for an awards campaign, so they had to rely on word of mouth and networking among high-profile friends and connections. Private screenings have reportedly been hosted by stars including Charlize Theron, Gwyneth Paltrow, Courteney Cox, Edward Norton, Jennifer Aniston and Minnie Driver, and the grassroots campaign appears to have worked for the team behind To Leslie.
While the Oscars had their fair share of controversial moments, there have only been six nominations revoked since the Oscars began nearly a century ago. The independent film has already made history as one of the lowest-grossing films to receive a nomination. However, if the actress is stripped of her nomination, the little film will unfortunately make more history at the Oscars.
While waiting to see what happens to Riseborough’s nomination, Christina Ricci fans can check out her latest work on Tim Burton’s hit series Wednesday, which is streaming for anyone with a Netflix subscription. To Leslie is available to rent on VOD on Apple and Prime Video if you want to see Riseborough’s performance, before the Oscars airs on March 12. In the meantime, check out the 2023 movie release dates to plan your next cinematic experience.