Park Chan-wook’s critically acclaimed “The Handmaiden” (아가씨), a visually stunning and emotionally complex erotic thriller, was conspicuously absent from the nominees for the 2017 Best Foreign Language Film Oscar. The film’s omission stemmed from the fact that South Korea did not submit “The Handmaiden” as its official entry, choosing instead Kim Jee-woon’s period thriller, “The Age of Shadows”.
The Crucial Decision: South Korea’s Submission
The single, overriding reason “The Handmaiden” wasn’t in contention for the 2017 Best Foreign Language Film Oscar boils down to South Korea’s official selection process. Each country is allowed to submit only one film per year for consideration. A committee within the country, typically comprised of film industry professionals, reviews eligible candidates and selects the film they believe best represents their nation’s cinematic achievements.
In 2016, the South Korean committee ultimately chose “The Age of Shadows” over “The Handmaiden.” This decision, while perhaps surprising to some, was based on factors such as the film’s perceived broader appeal, its historical significance (depicting the Korean independence movement under Japanese rule), and its potential to resonate with Academy voters. “The Age of Shadows,” while a well-regarded film, ultimately did not make the final nominations.
Understanding the Selection Process
The process for the Academy Awards Best Foreign Language Film (now Best International Feature Film) is rigorous and involves multiple stages. Films must meet specific criteria regarding language (primarily non-English), release date, and theatrical exhibition. Even if a film meets these requirements, it is ultimately the submitting country’s choice which film represents them.
The Role of the Academy
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) doesn’t directly choose which films countries submit. Their role begins after the national selection. The Academy reviews the submitted films to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements. A preliminary committee then views all eligible submissions and selects a shortlist. This shortlist is then viewed by a larger committee, who vote to determine the final nominees.
Factors Influencing the Selection in South Korea
It’s important to remember that the selection process is subjective. Various factors influence a country’s decision, including:
- Subject Matter: Does the film address themes considered important or representative of the country?
- Director’s Profile: The reputation and past success of the director can influence the committee’s decision.
- Commercial Viability: Is the film likely to garner attention and acclaim in the international market?
- Historical Significance: Films with historical or cultural relevance are often favored.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Several misconceptions often circulate regarding why a particular film doesn’t get nominated. It’s important to separate fact from fiction.
Myth: “The Handmaiden” Wasn’t Eligible
This is false. “The Handmaiden” met all the eligibility requirements regarding language, release date, and theatrical exhibition. The barrier was never eligibility, but selection.
Myth: The Film Was Too Explicit
While “The Handmaiden” features sexually suggestive scenes, explicit content rarely disqualifies a film from consideration. Many films with mature themes have been nominated and even won in the Best Foreign Language Film category. The Academy’s focus is on artistic merit and storytelling.
Myth: Park Chan-wook Was Blacklisted
There is no evidence to suggest that Park Chan-wook or his work were being deliberately excluded. The decision to submit “The Age of Shadows” was a judgment call made by the South Korean selection committee.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Controversy
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the situation and provide a broader understanding of the complexities involved in international film awards.
FAQ 1: Why is it up to each country to select its own film? Doesn’t this limit the choices?
This system is in place to ensure that each nation has the opportunity to showcase its unique cinematic perspective and cultural identity. While it does limit the number of films considered from each country, it also promotes diversity and ensures that films representing a broad range of voices and stories are considered.
FAQ 2: Could “The Handmaiden” have been nominated in other categories, even without a Best Foreign Language Film submission?
Yes, “The Handmaiden” could have been nominated in other categories, such as Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, or Best Production Design. However, it required a significant campaign from its distributor to raise awareness among Academy voters in those specific areas.
FAQ 3: Is there any recourse if a country chooses a film that many feel is inferior to another?
Unfortunately, no. The Academy respects the sovereignty of each nation’s selection process. The decision of the national selection committee is final.
FAQ 4: How does the Academy’s voting process work for the Best International Feature Film?
The Academy’s voting process involves multiple rounds. First, a committee of volunteer members views all eligible submissions and selects a shortlist of films. This shortlist is then viewed by a larger committee, who vote to determine the final nominees. All Academy members are eligible to vote on the winner, but they must have seen all the nominated films to cast a valid ballot.
FAQ 5: Is it possible for a film to be submitted by one country and then also be eligible for the Best Picture award in the same year?
Yes, it is possible. A film submitted for Best International Feature Film can also be considered for Best Picture and other categories, provided it meets the eligibility requirements for those categories.
FAQ 6: What were some other strong contenders for South Korea’s submission in 2016 besides “The Handmaiden” and “The Age of Shadows”?
While those two films garnered the most attention, other notable South Korean films released in 2016 that could have been considered include “Train to Busan,” a zombie thriller that achieved international success.
FAQ 7: Does a film have to be entirely in a foreign language to be considered for Best International Feature Film?
No, the rule states that the “predominant” dialogue track must be in a language other than English. Small amounts of English dialogue are permitted.
FAQ 8: How much influence do distributors have on which film a country submits?
Distributors can exert some influence by lobbying national selection committees and promoting their films. However, the ultimate decision rests with the committee members.
FAQ 9: Has a film ever been disqualified after being submitted? If so, why?
Yes, films have been disqualified, typically for failing to meet the eligibility requirements. Common reasons include not having a required theatrical run or containing too much English dialogue.
FAQ 10: How does the box office performance of a film influence the national selection committee’s decision?
Box office performance can be a factor, as it demonstrates a film’s commercial appeal and potential to resonate with a wider audience. However, it is not the sole determining factor. Artistic merit and cultural significance are also important considerations.
FAQ 11: Has Park Chan-wook ever had a film nominated for Best International Feature Film?
Yes, Park Chan-wook’s “Joint Security Area” was submitted by South Korea in 2000, but it did not receive a nomination.
FAQ 12: What lessons can be learned from the case of “The Handmaiden” and its absence from the 2017 Oscars?
The case of “The Handmaiden” highlights the subjective nature of the national selection process and the importance of understanding the criteria and priorities of the selection committees. It also underscores that even a critically acclaimed film can miss out on awards recognition due to factors beyond its artistic merit.
Conclusion
While the absence of “The Handmaiden” from the 2017 Best Foreign Language Film Oscar nominations was a disappointment for many, it serves as a reminder that the Academy Awards, while prestigious, are not the sole measure of a film’s success. “The Handmaiden” has continued to be celebrated and admired worldwide, solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in Korean cinema and a testament to Park Chan-wook’s visionary filmmaking. The film’s legacy extends far beyond awards ceremonies, influencing filmmakers and captivating audiences with its artistry and compelling narrative. The true measure of a film lies in its lasting impact, and “The Handmaiden” has undoubtedly left an indelible mark.