Did They Get it Right? – Best Picture – Oscars 1973

Here are the five nominees: (Winner in Bold)

American Graffiti

Cries & Whispers

The Exorcist

The Sting

A Touch of Class

Biggest Snub:

Badlands

My Overall Thoughts:

I think only 4 of the nominees this year really deserved spots on this list and am still a bit perplexed how the other one made it in.

In general, I think this year was an off year for films and studios opted for films on the “lighter” side of things which is why the 3 of the 4 best films of the year are all seen from a comedy perspective.

My Rankings:

Movies

• 5. – Cries & Whispers – Extremely boring story that apparently is visually amazing for lovers of filming techniques used as metaphors.  I’m still perplexed how this got a BP nom.
• 4. – A Touch of Class – Segal and Jackson have amazing chemistry together here as a couple trying to have an affair.  For a rom-com, this film has such a powerful message along with lots of funny scenes along the way.
• 3. – American Graffiti – Great film by Lucas that really was able to revive the 60’s feel a decade later.  Amazing characters who all remind us what it was like to be young and free with our whole lives ahead of us.
• 2. – The Exorcist – So much better than I had recalled. This film builds the story up really well and keeps things thrilling and interesting the entire time. I liked the fact that they approach this supernatural subject from a realistic perspective and try to show that something like this can actually happen. The pacing of this film works really well and nothing seems neither forced nor rushed. The cast is great and they are do a fine job keeping this exciting and powerful. Definitely was deserving of being the very first film from the horror genre to break the glass ceiling and get an Oscar nomination for Best Picture along with 9 other nominations. It managed to only win Best Sound and Best Adapted Screenplay.
• 1. – The Sting -Redford and Newman give us a feel good heist film along with a star studded supporting cast.  Proof that even “lighter” films can still win BP.

Do I agree with the Oscar winner? – Yes I do! The Sting is a great caper film and showed that it’s possible to win BP by just being a fun loving film instead of something dark and deep.  AG and AToC are both amazing films also, but neither is as impactful as TS was. The closest competitor was TE which showed that even the horror genre could truly contend.

Let me know what you think about these films and my rankings!