This year, the Academy Awards have notably featured films that explore religious themes, a departure from their typical secular focus. Among the leading contenders are The Brutalist, with ten nominations, and Conclave, which received eight. Both films prominently address faith, while A Real Pain, a Holocaust-themed road trip movie, is also in the running for best original screenplay and best supporting actor.
Historically, the Oscars have shied away from religious narratives. The last best picture winner touching on such themes was Spotlight in 2015, which investigated sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. The last film with a priestly protagonist to gain significant recognition was The Exorcist in 1973.
The Brutalist tells the story of László Tóth, a Jewish architect navigating post-war America, who is commissioned to design a cultural center with a chapel. The film explores the complexities of faith and identity through Tóth’s journey. In contrast, Conclave, based on Robert Harris’s novel, delves into the intrigues of the papal election, presenting a critical view of the Catholic Church.
Additionally, A Real Pain offers a unique perspective on Jewish identity and transgenerational trauma, reflecting on the legacy of the Holocaust. This year’s nominations suggest a possible shift in the Academy’s approach to faith-based narratives, indicating that such themes may resonate with audiences and voters alike.
As the Oscars approach, the inclusion of these films raises questions about the evolving landscape of cinema and the potential for a more inclusive representation of faith in mainstream storytelling.
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