Cinefantastique Online

Iron Man

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has narrowed the list of contenders for the special effects Oscar from 15 semi-finalists down to seven finalists. Of these, six are science fiction or fantasy films: THE DARK KNIGHT, IRON MAN, JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH, HELLBOY 2: THE GOLDEN ARMY, THE MUMMY: TOMB OF THE DRAGON EMPEROR, and THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON. The only non-genre finalist is AUSTRALIA.

I suspect that BENJAMIN BUTTON may be the front-runner this year, as it is the kind of film that attracts Academy voters, who tend to heap awards in all categories on their favorite films. BUTTON also has the advantage of presenting its effects in a very seamless way, as part of an enchanting story that never draws attention to the technical trickery.

DARK KNIGHT works on a somewhat similar level, in that the film is more grounded in a semblance of reality than most superhero movies. The viewer is seldom aware of special effects as such; the film simply seems filled with spectacular imagery that looks like live action.

IRON MAN also has its share of good work, but it turns just a bit cartoony in the final battle sequence. A minor blemish, but with competition this stiff, that may be enough to put it behind other entries.

JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH looked colorful and spectacular, but my assessment of the effects is blurred by my negative reaction to the film’s weak storyline. I felt that the movie looked pretty but not convincing. However, the anti-gravity rocks scene was a stand-out set-piece that in and of itself may be worth of a nomination. Of historical note, JOURNEY is the first 3d film to be recognized in the category.

As for HELLBOY 2 and THE MUMMY 3, I would not have included either one among the finalists. Both featured cartoony imagery whose computer-generated origins were a bit too obvious. Especially in the MUMMY sequel, the CGI was lathered on too thick obscuring rather than enhancing the fantasy-themed action.

These seven titles will vie for three nominations, which will be announced on January 22. The winner will be selected at the Academy Awards presentation on February 22.

Film previously under consideration that did not make the final cut were THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN, CLOVERFIELD, THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL, HANCOCK, THE INCREDIBLE HULK, INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL, QUANTUM OF SOLACE, and THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES.