World News
Miley Cyrus: The Exclusion of “Beautiful That Way” from the Shortlist
Dec
The Academy Awards, often considered the pinnacle of artistic recognition in the film industry, are no stranger to controversies surrounding snubs and omissions. This year, Miley Cyrus’ track “Beautiful That Way” from The Last Showgirl found itself excluded from the Oscars shortlist for Best Original Song. The omission has sparked widespread discussion in both fan and industry circles, especially given the song’s critical acclaim and Golden Globe nomination. Below, we delve into the significance of this snub, the competitive nature of the category, and the broader implications for music and film recognition.
Miley Cyrus and “Beautiful That Way”: A Creative Triumph
Miley Cyrus’ “Beautiful That Way” stood out as a powerful ballad in The Last Showgirl, a film directed by Gia Coppola and starring Pamela Anderson. The song captures the emotional core of the movie, reflecting themes of resilience, self-discovery, and artistry. Critics lauded the track for its poignant lyrics and Cyrus’ evocative vocal performance, praising it as one of her most heartfelt compositions to date.
The Last Showgirl itself represents a creative milestone for its team. Coppola’s direction has been hailed as a modern exploration of fame and personal identity, and Anderson’s role as a former dancer reclaiming her life offered an empowering narrative. The synergy between the film and its music seemed poised for recognition. Yet, the Oscars’ exclusion of “Beautiful That Way” has left many questioning the decision-making process behind the Academy’s choices.
A Competitive Year for Original Songs
This year’s Oscars race for Best Original Song has been particularly fierce, with a slew of iconic names vying for spots on the shortlist. The inclusion of music from prominent artists like Elton John and Trent Reznor underscores the high-caliber competition. Other standout tracks from major productions such as Oppenheimer, Barbie, and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever have also claimed attention, making it a challenging field for any new contenders.
Cyrus’ omission is not unique in its controversy. Lady Gaga’s song for Joker: Folie à Deux and Sky Ferreira’s track from Babygirl also failed to make the cut, further fueling discussions about what factors influence these selections. While the Academy aims to celebrate exceptional artistry, some argue that its methods may unintentionally overlook innovative or emotionally resonant pieces like Cyrus’.
The Academy’s Decision-Making Process
The Academy Awards’ nomination process involves rigorous evaluations by members of the music branch, who vote based on technical merit, integration within the film, and artistic impact. However, this system has faced criticism for potential biases. High-profile campaigns often dominate voters’ attention, with larger studios and established names receiving a disproportionate share of recognition.
In the case of The Last Showgirl, the film’s modest budget and independent roots may have played a role in its underrepresentation. While Cyrus’ star power could have bolstered the song’s chances, competing against more heavily promoted projects may have diminished its visibility among voters. The absence of “Beautiful That Way” from the shortlist reignites ongoing debates about whether the Oscars fully embrace diverse artistic contributions across all budgetary and promotional levels.
Cultural and Industry Reactions to the Snub
The exclusion of Miley Cyrus’ song has not gone unnoticed, with fans and industry insiders expressing disappointment and surprise. Social media platforms have been abuzz with debates, with many calling the snub a missed opportunity to recognize a piece that resonated deeply with audiences. Some critics argue that the Oscars’ perceived preference for larger, more traditional productions risks alienating emerging voices and unique narratives.
This incident also highlights the enduring tension between mainstream recognition and artistic integrity. For Cyrus, whose career has often blended commercial success with personal expression, the omission of “Beautiful That Way” may be disappointing but not career-defining. Her ability to continually push boundaries in both music and film ensures that her creative voice remains influential, regardless of Academy validation.
Looking Ahead: Redefining Recognition in Art
The snub of “Beautiful That Way” and similar exclusions bring to light the broader question of how art is valued and celebrated. While awards like the Oscars remain important cultural touchstones, they are not the sole arbiters of artistic worth. The outcry surrounding Cyrus’ omission underscores the evolving landscape of audience engagement, where fan support and critical acclaim can carry significant weight.
For The Last Showgirl, the journey continues. The film’s themes, performances, and music have already resonated with audiences and critics alike, solidifying its place in contemporary cinema. As the industry progresses, perhaps it will adopt more inclusive and transparent methods of evaluating creative contributions. Until then, the conversation surrounding this year’s Best Original Song race serves as a reminder of the complexities of artistic recognition and the importance of celebrating diverse voices in film and music.
From torunstyle