The Evolution of Dog Days in the Oscar Race

The summer months, often referred to as the “Dog Days” – spanning from mid-July to mid-August, have historically been perceived as an unlikely period for potential Oscar-worthy films. Despite this perception, a surprising number of Academy Award nominees have emerged from this timeframe in the past fifteen years.

Movies released during the Dog Days tend to resonate with the general audience, propelling them into the Oscar race, despite potential skepticism from film professionals. These films, such as “The Help,” have demonstrated the ability to captivate viewers and earn critical acclaim, even amidst the often more prestigious awards contenders.

In recent years, films like “BlacKKKlansman,” “Dunkirk,” “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood,” and “Inception” have continued to follow the trend set by earlier Dog Day nominees like “Saving Private Ryan”. These movies have managed to capture audience attention just prior to the awards season, providing a refreshing contrast to the more elite selections that dominate the latter part of the year.

The Challenge of the Current Summer

However, the landscape of this year’s summer movie releases seems to be lacking in potential Oscar contenders. While films like “Inside Out 2” and “It Ends With Us” have generated interest, their chances at securing a Best Picture nomination appear to be slim. The absence of substantial contenders during this Dog Days period raises questions about the changing dynamics of the Oscar race.

The Influence of Awards Professionals

As the summer season transitions into the latter part of the year, the influence of awards professionals becomes more evident in shaping the narrative of the Oscar race. Films like “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Sing Sing” may garner critical acclaim, but without significant viewer enthusiasm, their prospects for Oscar recognition remain uncertain.

The Dog Days of summer have historically served as a breeding ground for unexpected Oscar contenders. While this year’s summer releases may not have captured the attention of awards professionals, the evolving landscape of the film industry suggests that the criteria for Oscar-worthy films continues to shift. As we look towards the future, it remains to be seen how the Dog Days will continue to influence the trajectory of the Oscar race.