Tonight, the 98th Academy Awards will crown the greatest achievements in cinema from the previous year. History tells us to expect countless surprises, shockers, and shocking snubs throughout the evening.
While predictions for the Best Picture winner are often fairly accurate, the Academy has been known to throw a curveball or two in the past. This year, potential winners include the powerhouse “One Battle After Another” or a possible upset from “Sinners.”
Over the years, some of cinema’s most celebrated masterpieces have left empty-handed on Oscar night. From “Pulp Fiction” losing to “Forrest Gump” in 1995 to “The Color Purple” being snubbed for “Out of Africa” in 1986, there have been plenty of controversial decisions. However, no snub seems as egregious as the one suffered by Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane” in 1941.
“Citizen Kane,” a cinematic masterpiece about a powerful newspaper magnate, is widely regarded as one of the best films ever made. Despite its innovative storytelling and groundbreaking cinematography, the film lost the Best Picture Oscar in 1942 to “How Green Was My Valley,” a sentimental drama from director John Ford.
In a recent ranking by TV Insider, “Citizen Kane” is cited as one of the most egregious examples of the Oscars failing to recognize the most deserving movie. The film’s enduring legacy is attributed to its technical wizardry, stellar performances, and profound influence on the film industry as a whole.
Other notable films that were snubbed for the Best Picture Oscar include “Goodfellas,” “Brokeback Mountain,” “BlacKkKlansman,” and “Raging Bull.” The snub of Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” in 2009 even prompted the Academy to expand the Best Picture category to include 10 nominees.
As we gear up for the 98th Academy Awards airing on Sunday, March 14, it’s clear that the conversation around Oscar snubs and surprises is far from over. The legacy of films like “Citizen Kane” serves as a reminder of the subjective nature of awards and the enduring impact of cinematic masterpieces.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.