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We had one film release this past weekend with the potential for Oscar nominations.

Mary Queen of Scots

In Oscar history, period epic dramas have been a staple, gracing countless Oscar ceremonies and winning numerous awards. Mary Queen of Scots looks to be just the kind of movie the Academy has always loved to recognized. So, why does it feel like an also-ran?

The first sign of trouble came when critics reviewed the film. While they have been uniformly positive (68% on Rotten Tomatoes and 64 on MetaCritic), they aren’t the stuff of Oscar juggernauts. Matter of fact, the film has been almost ignored by the precursor awards so far, including the more friendly Golden Globes. Sure, the Satellite Awards gave it a few mentions, but they aren’t a group Oscar voters typically look to for validation.

The film sports Oscar nominees Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie, two of the biggest young actresses working today. It’s a period feast that’s sure to figure in at least Production Design and Costume Design, but the film itself just can’t seem to get a toe-hold in this year’s race. While Ronan and Robbie both look to give fiery performances, the critics are looking in other directors for their choices, which means neither is likely to compete this year.

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