Not being a film critic or an avid movie-goer, my film knowledge is less adequate than the regular theater enthusiast. However, in true American fashion (where reading the internet entitles one an educated opinion), I must concur with the general public and agree that Leonardo DiCaprio will finally nab an Oscar this year.
DiCaprio’s reign in Hollywood is the equivalent of pre-ring Lebron James. The actor has been trudging his way through the film industry for over three decades, and has solidified his name as one of the America’s top actors.
Despite his spectacular roles in films including “Blood Diamond,” “The Aviator,” and “The Wolf of Wall Street”, DiCaprio has walked away from the Academy Awards empty handed four times.
There are many theories as to why DiCaprio has yet to win the top award in Hollywood – one being his competition. DiCaprio’s solid presentation as Jordan Belfort in “Wolf of Wall Street” was matched by Matthew McConaughey’s incredible performance Ron Woodroof in “Dallas Buyers Club.” DiCaprio’s first Best Leading Actor nomination as Howard Hughes in “The Aviator” was shadowed by Jamie Foxx’s turn as Ray Charles in “Ray.”
Although both of DiCaprio’s roles are riveting, they paled in comparison to both McConaughey and Foxx’s breathtaking performances.
The 2016 Academy Awards is looking like DiCaprio’s golden opportunity. He was nominated for his role of Hugh Glass in “The Revenant,” a role that pushed DiCaprio’s acting abilities. DiCaprio reportedly trudged in and out of frozen rivers and slept in animal carcasses to prepare for the role.
The Oscars love to see actors work for their awards – when McConaughey won for “Dallas Buyers Club,” he went on a strict diet and lost a massive amount of weight.
Despite the absence of the coveted Oscar, DiCaprio is making out like a bandit in life. He has been linked to several models and actresses, including Bar Refaeli and Blake Lively. Apparently, lacking an Oscar does not prevent him from landing some of the most beautiful women in the world.
Beautiful women and his own personal island do not deter DiCaprio’s quest for an Oscar. He also has the majority of the Internet on his side. People want to see the multitalented DiCaprio secure his place as an American film great.
Does DiCaprio’s delivery in “The Revenant” beat out his competition? I think so.
Though there are impressive roles from Eddie Redmayne, Matt Damon, and Michael Fassbender, they fall short of DiCaprio’s rugged, suspenseful performance.
The entire movie is centered around one man’s brutal fight for survival after a bear attack. The gripping performance ascends Oscar material.
This article originally appeared in the Jan. 27, 2016 print edition of The Echo.
image via hollywoodreporter.com
