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Emma Stone to Sandra Hüller: Decoding the Best Actress frontrunners for the Oscars

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The big three film festivals- Berlin, Cannes and Venice, are over. Cue to the crucial fall film festivals- Telluride and Toronto, which are still ongoing. These are but essential in providing a road map to the Oscars next year, and if there’s one category that is stacked it is the Best Actress in a Leading Role. (Also read: Poor Things to Maestro: 10 films premiering at the 2023 Venice Film Festival that we can’t wait to watch)

Emma Stone, Sandra Hüller and Margot Robbie are in the running for the Best Actress Oscar race this year.
Emma Stone, Sandra Hüller and Margot Robbie are in the running for the Best Actress Oscar race this year.

Fresh out of Venice

Venice Film Festival provides a sure-shot lead when it comes to the category, given how the Volpi Cup for Best Actress award chosen by the festival often translates into an Oscar nomination. The streak is unbeatable at this point- four of the past winners in the past five years of the festival have gone on to secure an Oscar nomination, with one winning. The list includes Olivia Colman for The Favourite (2018), Vanessa Kirby for Pieces of a Woman (2020), Penélope Cruz for Parallel Mothers (2021) and Cate Blanchett for Tár (2022).

This should leave the most recent winner in the category, Cailee Spaeny for Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla beaming with joy. Cailee has never been nominated before, and the Academy loves honouring a newcomer in an author-backed biopic. Given how Priscilla reconstructs the narrative introduced by Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, that got star Austin Butler a Best Actor nomination, Priscilla could bode very well with the Academy members.

The other big showdown that burst out of Venice was Yorgos Lanthimos’ Poor Things. Critics showered raved reviews upon its premiere calling it the best film the Greek filmmaker has ever made, boasting a career-best turn for star Emma Stone. Although the Oscar winning actor, who had already won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress for La La Land a few years ago, didn’t receive it this time around, her film took home the highest honour at the festival- the Golden Lion for Best Film. Her fourth Oscar nomination is now locked. A second Oscar win? Only time will tell.

A lot of buzz for Sandra Hüller

Interestingly, Stone’s trajectory is quite similar to another film festival breakout- German actor Sandra Hüller for Anatomy of a Fall and The Zone of Interest, both of which triumphed at Cannes Film Festival. The 45 year-old starred in two of the strongest competition titles at Cannes, where many predicted her to win the Best Actress award. Yet, her films took precedence over her acclaimed turns. French director Justine Triet won the coveted Palme d’Or and The Zone of Interest brought in the Grand Prix, the second topmost award at Cannes. The one who surprisingly scooped Best Actress at Cannes was Turkish actor Merve Dizdar for Nuri Bilge Ceylan’s About Dry Grasses.

Last week, Variety reported that Sandra Hüller will be campaigning in the Best Supporting Actress category for The Zone of Interest, while her work in Anatomy of a Fall, would certainly push her in the Lead category. If she is able to crack into both the categories, Sandra would make history as the first actress to mark double nominations for two non-English language performances in the same year.

Besides these performances, other contenders vying for a spot in the Best Actress race include Carey Mulligan in Maestro (directed by Oscar nominee Bradley Cooper, and premiered at Venice), Annette Bening in NYAD (Bening is a beloved industry veteran who has never won, and her film just premiered at Telluride), Natalie Portman in May December (predictably received great reviews after the Cannes premiere), Greta Lee in Past Lives (a solid breakout performance that has been in the buzz since its premiere at Berlin earlier this year), Margot Robbie in this year’s biggest film Barbie, and Fantasia Barrino in The Color Purple (opening in theatres this Christmas).

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Beyoncé: The Undisputed Queen of Reinvention, Empowerment, and Global Influence

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Few artists have redefined the boundaries of music, fashion, and culture like Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter. From her early days as the lead vocalist of Destiny’s Child to her meteoric rise as a global solo icon, Beyoncé’s journey is a masterclass in evolution, artistry, and resilience. Over the years, she has not only dominated the music charts but also transcended the industry, becoming a symbol of empowerment, innovation, and cultural pride.

Beyoncé’s career is a testament to the power of reinvention. With every album, from Dangerously in Love to Renaissance, she has showcased a unique ability to evolve her sound, explore new genres, and reflect the changing times. Her boldness in tackling themes like love, heartbreak, race, and feminism in works like Lemonade has set her apart as an artist willing to bare her soul while challenging societal norms. Beyond the music, her attention to visual storytelling through iconic music videos, such as Formation and her Netflix special Homecoming, has revolutionized how fans experience her artistry.

As much as she is a musical powerhouse, Beyoncé’s impact extends far beyond the stage. Her bold and unapologetic sense of style has made her a fashion icon, from her show-stopping red carpet appearances to the global success of her Ivy Park brand. Each fashion moment tells a story, merging couture with cultural commentary, making her an influential figure in the fashion world.

Philanthropy and activism are equally central to Beyoncé’s legacy. Through her BeyGOOD initiative, she has contributed to causes ranging from disaster relief to scholarships for marginalized communities. Her work amplifies voices that need to be heard, and her consistent advocacy for gender equality and racial justice reflects her commitment to creating lasting change.

Beyoncé’s influence is not just in her music or activism but also in how she inspires millions to embrace their power and individuality. Her ability to challenge norms, redefine success, and uplift others cements her as a cultural icon of our time. Beyoncé isn’t just an entertainer; she is a movement, a symbol of excellence, and a queen who reigns supreme in the hearts of her fans and the annals of history.

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Dua Lipa: The Global Pop Sensation Redefining Modern Music and Culture

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Dua Lipa has quickly become one of the most influential and celebrated artists of her generation. Known for her velvety voice, empowering lyrics, and bold style, she has transcended the boundaries of pop music to become a global icon. With a career that skyrocketed in just a few years, Dua Lipa continues to prove that she is not just a star but a force reshaping modern music and culture.

Her rise to fame began with her self-titled debut album, which featured hits like New Rules—a modern anthem for self-respect and independence. Dua’s ability to blend dance beats with emotional depth became her signature, solidifying her position as a pop powerhouse. Her sophomore album, Future Nostalgia, was a game-changer, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and acclaim for reviving disco and funk influences in contemporary music. Songs like Don’t Start Now and Levitating became global hits, further proving her ability to craft timeless music that resonates across generations.

But Dua Lipa is more than just a chart-topping singer. She has become a style icon, known for her daring and eclectic fashion sense that effortlessly blends haute couture with streetwear. Her appearances on red carpets and collaborations with luxury brands like Versace have cemented her as a trendsetter.

In addition to her music and fashion influence, Dua has used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. As a second-generation immigrant from Kosovo, she has been vocal about her heritage and has supported initiatives to uplift her community. In 2020, she co-founded Sunny Hill Foundation to help those in need in Kosovo, showcasing her commitment to philanthropy.

Dua’s versatility extends to the business world as well, with ventures such as her podcast At Your Service, where she connects with influential figures to discuss creativity and culture. Her ability to engage with her audience on multiple levels makes her a modern icon who continues to inspire and innovate.

Whether dominating the charts, turning heads with her fashion, or making a difference through her advocacy, Dua Lipa represents the perfect blend of artistry and authenticity. She is not just shaping the future of pop music but also empowering a new generation to embrace individuality and fearlessness.

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Selena Gomez: The Multi-Talented Star Redefining Success and Authenticity

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Selena Gomez has proven time and again that she is far more than a household name. From her roots as a Disney Channel star to her rise as a globally renowned singer, actress, and producer, Selena has built a career marked by resilience, authenticity, and boundless talent. Her journey has been one of transformation, as she continues to evolve and inspire millions with her artistic achievements and personal advocacy.

Selena’s impact in the entertainment industry began with her breakout role on Wizards of Waverly Place, where her charm and comedic timing made her a beloved figure among young audiences. Transitioning to music, she proved her versatility with hits like Come & Get ItBad Liar, and Lose You to Love Me, showcasing her ability to channel raw emotion and vulnerability into her songs. Her recent album, Rare, not only topped charts but also solidified her place as an artist with a unique voice and perspective.

As an actress and producer, Selena has expanded her influence with critically acclaimed projects such as 13 Reasons Why and the hit series Only Murders in the Building. The latter has earned her recognition for her comedic and dramatic range, further proving that her talents extend far beyond music. In every role, Selena brings an authenticity that resonates with audiences, making her a relatable and enduring figure in Hollywood.

Beyond her professional achievements, Selena’s openness about her struggles with mental health and lupus has endeared her to fans around the world. As the founder of Rare Beauty, she has used her platform to promote self-love and support mental health awareness through the Rare Impact Fund. Her advocacy for these causes has made her a trailblazer in breaking stigmas and encouraging meaningful conversations.

Selena Gomez’s ability to balance a thriving career with a commitment to authenticity and giving back makes her a role model for the modern generation. Whether she’s lighting up the screen, creating chart-topping music, or championing causes close to her heart, Selena continues to redefine what it means to be a star in today’s world.

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