Will Inside Out 2 Become the Next Animated Feature Oscar Winner?

The Academy Awards, or more specifically the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, sees a fierce competition every year. While many predict that Inside Out 2 might take the win, the results can often surprise and delight the film industry and audiences alike. Let's explore the landscape and potential contenders of the upcoming Animated Feature Oscar race.

Expected Nominations and Beyond

As of now, it appears that Inside Out 2 is leading the pack in terms of critical and commercial success. However, the past Academy Awards have often seen unexpected outcomes, especially in the Animated Feature category. The 2022 Oscars showcased a surprising anti-war animated film from Pakistan, which could signal that the Academy is seeking a fresh perspective and a more diverse range of stories.

One of the key factors in Inside Out 2's favor is the backing of two industry giants: Pixar and Disney. History tells us that a Pixar or Disney film has won 14 out of the last 20 Best Animated Feature Oscars. This kind of backing can significantly boost a film's chances, as it provides both a wider distribution and an audience base ready to support the film.

Potential Contenders

While Inside Out 2 is highly anticipated, the race for the Animated Feature Oscar is crowded with other potential nominees. Here are a few contenders to watch:

The Glassworker

The Glassworker is a remarkable film that has garnered critical acclaim but may need more word-of-mouth promotion to build the necessary buzz to become a sleeper hit. For it to gain wider distribution and a larger audience, it would need to rely on strong promotion and word of mouth to gain traction. A successful campaign could catapult this film into the race and make it a strong contender.

Moana 2 - Piece by Piece

Moana 2, titled Piece by Piece, is a big contender for the Oscars. However, it has not yet been released, which keeps it at a disadvantage as the relationship between distributors and the Academy can sometimes influence nominations. Timing is crucial in this race, as the film needs to make a strong impact before the nomination announcement.

Kensuke's Kingdom

Kensuke's Kingdom is another movie that is gaining attention for its unique storytelling. With a distinguished director and a compelling storyline, it has the potential to impress the Academy. However, its release and marketing strategy will be critical in ensuring it gains the necessary recognition.

The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim

Speaking of big releases, the new chapter from the The Lord of the Rings franchise, titled The War of Rohirrim, is another contender. Known for its impressive visuals and production values, this could be a strong candidate for an Oscar in the future. However, its impact on the Animated Feature Oscar competition is uncertain due to its genre and explicit action content.

Conclusion

While Inside Out 2 undoubtedly has the best shot at winning the Best Animated Feature Oscar due to its critical acclaim and industry backing, the unpredictable nature of the Academy Awards keeps the race interesting. Other films like The Glassworker, Moana 2 - Piece by Piece, Kensuke's Kingdom, and even The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim could potentially surprise the audience with their impact. Whether these films will claiming the esteemed title of the Best Animated Feature Oscar in the future remains to be seen, but there's no denying the excitement that surrounds the race.