The Academy Awards are this weekend - but how do you actually go about winning one?
Plus: some Oscar predictions.
This article originally appeared onDen of Geek UK.
I however am not.
In the second round of votes all members can vote in all categories from the list of nominees.
Its no secret that the Academy is predominantly three things; male, white and over 60.
Since that report came out the Academy have been trying to redress the balance.
related article: Whats Diversity Got to Do With the Oscars?
The situation is far from ideal but things appear to be moving in the right direction.
And now on with the show…
The most obvious answer to this is be Katharine Hepburn or Meryl Streep.
Age wise, itll probably come as no surprise to the ladies, it pays to be young.
As with the previous category theres an even more obvious person to be, Daniel Day Lewis.
The youngest ever winner was Adrien Brody who was 29 when he won forThe Pianist.
Again, the Best Actor Oscar has connection with the SAG Awards.
Also, same with the Golden Globes and the winner of Best Actor in a Drama.
That can in one of two ways; through the character story or physical transformation.
If its a story about someone over coming physical or social limitations, the Academy love it.
Robert De Niro put on 5 stone to play down-on-his-luck Jake La Motta inRaging Bull.
Hes recently turned 41 so age is finally on his side.
Maybe this year really is his year.
Firstly, make your film about something the white/male/60 years+ Academy would like to see.
Give them an option and AMPAS will go for character over computers every time.
Tying in to that; focus on actors.
Next, make it a drama and make it live action.
Most recentlyChicagowon in 2002 but prior to that a musical hadnt won the top prize sinceOliver!in 1968.
Finally, win other Oscars.
It is rare that a film will win Best Picture having not picked up other awards prior to that.
Prediction for this years winner:The Revenant
Theres no clear winner in Best Picture this year.
Does this by-the-numbers approach diminish the value of these awards by highlighting how predictable they are?
Am I still going to order a pizza and stay up till 5 am to watch them?
Jean Dujardin tap dancing with joy after winning his Best Actor Oscar.
Philippe Petit balancing his Oscar on his chin afterMan OnWirewon Best Documentary Feature.
Graham Moores wonderful speech telling kids to stay different whenThe Imitation Gamewon best adapted screenplay.
Those moments speak to the wider influence of films, the joy they bring and the messages they impart.
So just take your seat, the show is about to begin.
