#MeToo: The Oscars Could Become the High Point
Published in Die Presse
(Austria) on 29 December 2017
by Köksal Baltaci (link to original)
(Austria) on 29 December 2017
by Köksal Baltaci (link to original)
Translated from
by Sandra Alexander.
Edited by Helaine Schweitzer.
The Oscars, one of the most prestigious events of the year, is traditionally is characterized by a big theme each year.
Last year, it was the newly inaugurated presidency of Donald Trump; the year before, it was the controversy over whether African-American actors receive enough appreciation in Hollywood, having been omitted from the nominations.
Doubtless, the next ceremony on March 4 will be dominated by allegations of abuse by producers, directors and actors. The evening could even become the high point of this controversy, just as it did two years ago when host Chris Rock (“Grown Ups”), who is black, caused an international stir with nuanced, witty and intelligent opening remarks. Hardly anyone had expected such a critical, forthright and, at the same time, self-deprecating speech. Interestingly enough, his performance was not only the highpoint but also marked the end of the discrimination debate. Overnight, no one spoke of it any longer. Perhaps it was because Rock had already said everything and had allowed every position enough room.
However, for various reasons, one can’t compare the topic then with the current accusations. The host of the upcoming Oscar ceremony, however, is in store for an unbelievably important role. Even choosing the host is a highly symbolic decision. Jimmy Kimmel is already scheduled to host. It would be far from surprising if he is replaced by a woman in order to set an example. One way or another, the whole world will be eagerly awaiting the opening remarks in the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles because they will be virtually held as Hollywood’s official reaction to the accusations of sexual misconduct. But it will also be an opportunity. Chris Rock used that opportunity by making a statement for eternity.
Last year, it was the newly inaugurated presidency of Donald Trump; the year before, it was the controversy over whether African-American actors receive enough appreciation in Hollywood, having been omitted from the nominations.
Doubtless, the next ceremony on March 4 will be dominated by allegations of abuse by producers, directors and actors. The evening could even become the high point of this controversy, just as it did two years ago when host Chris Rock (“Grown Ups”), who is black, caused an international stir with nuanced, witty and intelligent opening remarks. Hardly anyone had expected such a critical, forthright and, at the same time, self-deprecating speech. Interestingly enough, his performance was not only the highpoint but also marked the end of the discrimination debate. Overnight, no one spoke of it any longer. Perhaps it was because Rock had already said everything and had allowed every position enough room.
However, for various reasons, one can’t compare the topic then with the current accusations. The host of the upcoming Oscar ceremony, however, is in store for an unbelievably important role. Even choosing the host is a highly symbolic decision. Jimmy Kimmel is already scheduled to host. It would be far from surprising if he is replaced by a woman in order to set an example. One way or another, the whole world will be eagerly awaiting the opening remarks in the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles because they will be virtually held as Hollywood’s official reaction to the accusations of sexual misconduct. But it will also be an opportunity. Chris Rock used that opportunity by making a statement for eternity.
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