The discussion about the organization of categories at awards ceremonies continues. It is actor Elliot Page who is committed to finding new ways to recognize the work of all types of people in the industry. During his time at the Toronto Film Festival, he stated that he found it strange that this distinction was only made in the selection of actors.
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What did Elliot Page say about gender-neutral categories at the Oscars?
In an interview with Weekly Entertainment the media asked Elliot Pagewho has been nominated for Best Actress in the past for her work in Juno: Grow, Run and Stumble – 94%, what did they think about the possibility that the Hollywood Academy would reorganize its categories to include genderless nominations, that is, for best performance, without the designation “female” or “male.” His response was, “Yes, that would be a good idea.”
“It’s kind of unusual that this is the only category where this is happening. Hopefully we can move away from this binary thinking,” Page added, adding that other categories such as directing, editing or photography are not split between male and female nominees. The theme is the intersection of several topics, such as the inclusion of people with non-binary genders and the recognition of equality between men and women.
Beyond the question of gender, the division of acting categories between men and women seems more like a marketing issue, with four winners from up to four different films helping to raise awareness of the various titles in the competition. Additionally, more people can be nominated, increasing their chances of receiving more commissions and recognition from more artists.
In any case, the question would be what to do if someone enters the competition who does not identify as a man or a woman. In some cases, you choose to assign them the category that suits their character. For example, at this year’s postponed Emmys, Bella Ramsey received a nomination for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Ellie in “The Last of Us” – 97%, although he has made it clear that he considers himself a gender non-binary person.
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The issue deserves attention as there is increasing visibility and opportunities for trans people in the world of entertainment. Finding a way to celebrate and recognize their work without being unkind or downright disrespectful to the recognition of their identity is a challenge that can be easily overcome.
As the Oscars decide to consider these options, Page returns in Close to You – 50%, the first feature film he has starred in since his transition was released. The film is not yet in distribution and just premiered in Toronto this week. Previously his series was The Umbrella Academy – 83% chose to reflect their identity by also bringing back a trans man in their character Viktor Hargreeves.
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