The film that won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2019 was Green Book, a biographical dramedy directed by Peter Farrelly. This victory, considered by many to be a surprise, sparked significant controversy and debate within the film industry and beyond.
The Road to Victory: Green Book‘s Journey
Green Book tells the story of a touring jazz pianist, Dr. Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali), and his Italian-American driver, Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen), as they navigate the racially segregated Deep South in 1962. Based loosely on a true story, the film explores themes of race, class, friendship, and prejudice.
The film’s path to the Oscars was paved with both critical acclaim and considerable controversy. It resonated with audiences due to its heartwarming narrative and strong performances from its lead actors. However, it also faced criticism for its perceived simplistic portrayal of racial issues and its handling of the historical context. Despite this, Green Book garnered significant momentum throughout awards season, winning the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival, a key indicator of potential Oscar success.
The competition for Best Picture in 2019 was fierce, with nominees including critically lauded films such as Roma, The Favourite, A Star is Born, Black Panther, BlacKkKlansman, Bohemian Rhapsody, and Vice. Green Book‘s victory was considered an upset by many, especially given the presence of more politically charged and artistically ambitious contenders.
Decoding the Controversy
The controversy surrounding Green Book‘s win stems from several factors. Some critics argued that the film presented a whitewashed and overly simplistic view of racial inequality in the Jim Crow South. Others criticized its narrative for centering the white character’s perspective and perpetuating the “white savior” trope.
Furthermore, the film’s historical accuracy was questioned, particularly concerning the depiction of Dr. Don Shirley’s relationship with his family and his experience with racism. Some members of Shirley’s family publicly denounced the film, alleging that it misrepresented his life and relationships.
Despite these criticisms, Green Book‘s supporters praised its message of unity and its ability to spark conversations about race and prejudice. They argued that the film’s heartwarming narrative and strong performances resonated with audiences and offered a positive message in a divided world.
Ultimately, Green Book‘s victory highlights the complex and often unpredictable nature of the Academy Awards. It demonstrates how factors such as audience appeal, narrative resonance, and the prevailing cultural climate can influence the outcome of the Best Picture race. The debate surrounding Green Book continues to this day, serving as a reminder of the power of film to provoke dialogue and challenge our perceptions of history and society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 What other awards did Green Book win?
While Green Book‘s Best Picture win was its most prominent achievement, it also secured several other significant accolades. In addition to the People’s Choice Award at TIFF, it won the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and Mahershala Ali won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Dr. Don Shirley. Peter Farrelly, Nick Vallelonga, and Brian Currie also won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. These awards underscored the film’s broad appeal and the strength of its performances.
H3 What were the other nominated films for Best Picture in 2019?
The films vying for the Best Picture Oscar alongside Green Book in 2019 were a diverse and critically acclaimed slate, including: Black Panther, BlacKkKlansman, Bohemian Rhapsody, The Favourite, Roma, A Star is Born, and Vice. Each film brought a unique perspective and artistic vision to the table, making the competition particularly intense.
H3 Who were the key players involved in the making of Green Book?
Green Book was directed by Peter Farrelly, known for his previous comedies. The screenplay was written by Farrelly, Nick Vallelonga (the son of Tony Lip, the character portrayed by Viggo Mortensen), and Brian Currie. Viggo Mortensen played Tony Lip, and Mahershala Ali portrayed Dr. Don Shirley. The film was produced by Jim Burke, Charles B. Wessler, Brian Currie, Peter Farrelly, and Nick Vallelonga.
H3 What is the significance of the title Green Book?
The title Green Book refers to “The Negro Motorist Green Book,” a real-life guidebook published from 1936 to 1966 that listed hotels, restaurants, and other establishments that welcomed African American travelers during a time of widespread segregation. The book was a vital resource for African Americans navigating the dangers and indignities of travel in the Jim Crow South.
H3 Why was the film criticized for its historical accuracy?
Green Book faced criticism regarding its portrayal of Dr. Don Shirley’s life and experiences. Shirley’s family disputed the film’s depiction of his relationship with his family and his characterization as being estranged from the African American community. They claimed that the filmmakers did not consult them adequately and that the film presented a distorted view of Shirley’s personal life.
H3 What is the “white savior” trope, and how does it relate to Green Book?
The “white savior” trope is a narrative device in which a white character rescues or significantly improves the lives of people of color, often reinforcing racial hierarchies and minimizing the agency of the non-white characters. Critics argued that Green Book employed this trope by focusing on Tony Lip’s role in protecting and guiding Dr. Don Shirley, thereby diminishing Shirley’s own strength and resilience.
H3 How did the Academy Awards react to the controversy surrounding Green Book‘s win?
The Academy Awards, as an institution, did not issue an official statement directly addressing the controversy surrounding Green Book‘s win. However, the backlash prompted broader discussions about the representation of race and diversity within the film industry and the need for more inclusive storytelling. The debate around Green Book served as a catalyst for continued efforts to promote diverse voices and perspectives in Hollywood.
H3 Did Green Book‘s box office success influence its Oscar chances?
While box office success is not the sole determinant of Oscar wins, it certainly plays a role. Green Book‘s relatively strong box office performance, demonstrating its appeal to a wide audience, likely contributed to its momentum during awards season. A film that resonates with a large audience often gains wider recognition and support within the industry.
H3 What impact did Green Book‘s win have on Peter Farrelly’s career?
Green Book‘s Best Picture win marked a significant departure for Peter Farrelly, previously known primarily for his comedic films such as Dumb and Dumber and There’s Something About Mary. The film’s success demonstrated his ability to direct a more serious and dramatic narrative, expanding his range as a filmmaker. It opened doors for him to pursue more diverse and challenging projects.
H3 How has the film aged since its release?
The reception of Green Book has arguably cooled somewhat since its initial release. While it continues to be enjoyed by some, the criticisms regarding its portrayal of race and historical accuracy have become more prominent in discussions about the film. Its legacy is complex, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about representation and the importance of diverse perspectives in storytelling.
H3 Where can I watch Green Book today?
Green Book is widely available for streaming and purchase on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Google Play Movies & TV. It can also be rented or purchased on physical media such as DVD and Blu-ray. Availability may vary depending on your region.
H3 What lessons can be learned from the Green Book controversy?
The Green Book controversy serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of historical accuracy, diverse perspectives, and responsible storytelling in film. It highlights the need to critically examine narratives that deal with sensitive social issues and to ensure that marginalized voices are heard and respected. It also underscores the power of film to spark meaningful conversations and to challenge our understanding of history and society. The controversy ultimately fueled further discussions about representation and inclusivity in the film industry, pushing for more authentic and nuanced portrayals of diverse communities.