Popcorn Talk Oscar Reactions, Vol. II: Best Actor- For a Few Analyses More

For the second entry in the Popcorn Talk Oscar Reactions, I'll be dissecting the choices in the Best Actor category. The nominees were Denzel Washington (Flight), Joaquin Phoenix (The Master), Hugh Jackman (Les Miserables), Bradley Cooper (Silver Linings Playbook), and the winner, Daniel Day-Lewis, for his portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in Steven Spielberg's Lincoln. Phoenix, whose most famous role was Johnny Cash in 2005's Walk the Line, failed to generate enough publicity for Paul Thomas Anderson's superb film The Master, which admittedly was a more intellectual film, something not commonly enjoyed by the average American filmgoer (summed up here beautifully by Peter Travers). Jackman, on the other hand, was magnificent as Jean Valjean in Les Mis, and also managed to achieve a high degree of publicity for the direction, ensemble cast, and singing, but also acted in something of a niche film, reserved almost entirely for musical lovers. That said, it was wonderful, but unfortunately not "mainstream" enough for the voters of the Academy. Bradley Cooper had excellent chemistry with his costar Ms. Lawrence, and also portrayed a character with a never-failing sense of optimism despite his condition, simply failed to compare to his fellow nominees, though I am thankful he has expanded from raunchy comedies like The Hangover and is making his migration to more sensitive films. Day-Lewis's closest competitor in the race was undoubtedly Denzel Washington in Flight. He also portrayed a deeply flawed character (something of a theme this year, no?) who is inherently good in is heart, but struggles with addiction to the point where it cripples his career but follows him during his trial for drinking while flying, but saving the passengers from dying a fiery death in a crash, all while his fate hangs in the balance. However, Washington's excellent acting ability pales in comparison to Day-Lewis's Lincoln. A well-known method actor, he takes his own reputation and expands it beyond his wildest beliefs. He nailed the voice and character of Lincoln, who worked hard to unite a divided Congress and cabinet through the power of persuasion and his unparalleled gift of gab. In short, Daniel Day-Lewis deserved that award more than he deserved it for his role as Daniel Plainview in There Will Be Blood.