The Oscar Race: Can Daniel Day-Lewis Claims a Fourth Academy Award for "Phantom Thread"?

In the recent buzz surrounding the Academy Awards, the film "Darkest Hour" has been a hot topic, with many predicting Gary Oldman to win his first Oscar for his commanding performance as Winston Churchill. However, while Oldman's role is undoubtedly powerful and acclaimed, there's a huge fanbase and critics who believe that Daniel Day-Lewis's portrayal in "Phantom Thread" is equally if not more convincing. This article delves into the intricate details of the Oscar race, weighing the merits of both performances, and exploring the possible outcomes based on historical data.

Comparing the Performances

Both Daniel Day-Lewis and Gary Oldman deliver exceptional performances in their respective films. Daniel Day-Lewis's talent is unparalleled, and his performance in "Phantom Thread" is exquisite, capturing a nuanced and intricate character that adds depth and complexity to the storyline. Despite his excellence, some viewers and critics believe that his performances in films such as "Gangs of New York" and "In the Name of the Father" were even more remarkable, ultimately pushing him over the edge in previous Oscar races.

Daniel Day-Lewis's Performance in "Phantom Thread"

"Phantom Thread" tells a story that is delicate, intricate, and somewhat bizarre, making Daniel Day-Lewis's performance even more challenging and impressive. Critics argue that his portrayal of Reynolds Woodcock is one of the most memorable of his career, showcasing his ability to bring depth and authenticity to every scene. While the storyline may be unconventional, Day-Lewis's performance elevates the film to new heights of artistic merit.

Gary Oldman's Season

On the other hand, Gary Oldman's performance in the film "Darkest Hour" as Winston Churchill is nothing short of phenomenal. This portrayal is already receiving high accolades, including a Golden Globe Award. Oldman's interpretation of Churchill is so flawless and captivating that it has already won him critical acclaim. While Tom Hanks provided a great performance in "The Post," and Meryl Streep also delivered a standout performance, Oldman's role stands out due to its historical and transformative impact.

Academy Awards Factors

However, the race for an Oscar goes beyond just the performances and the critical acclaim. The odds are stacked against Daniel Day-Lewis due to his already substantial Oscar record. Day-Lewis has won three Academy Awards for Best Actor for "My Left Foot" (1990), "There Will Be Blood" (2008), and "Lincoln" (2013). Given the Academy's tendency to award performances to actors who have yet to win a statuette, Gary Oldman's first-time nomination significantly boosts his likelihood of success.

Academy's Inclination Towards New Winners

Historically, the Academy often favors actors who have yet to win an Oscar, even if their talent is established. This is evident in the case of Gary Oldman, who has not won an Oscar despite his widely recognized talent. Conversely, Daniel Day-Lewis's four-time victory might make it harder for the Academy to award him again, especially when there are other deserving actors like Gary Oldman in the running. However, it is also important to note that there are exceptions to this rule, such as Tom Hanks's back-to-back wins in 1994 and 1995.

Conclusion

The race for the Academy Award is not just about talent and performance but also about historical context and the Academy's preferences for diversity in their award recipients. While Daniel Day-Lewis's performance in "Phantom Thread" is impressive and undoubtedly deserves recognition, the odds might be slightly stacked against him due to his already established record. On the other hand, Gary Oldman's performance in "Darkest Hour" is likely to garner more support from the Academy, particularly because it's a fresh opportunity for him to claim his first Oscar.

Ultimately, the Oscar race is a complex landscape with many factors at play. Watch the films, appreciate the performances, and stay tuned for the eventual results, which will emerge as the greater narrative unfolds.