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It read like a scene out of “Barbie” itself.
When the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations Tuesday morning for the 96th annual Oscars, both Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie were dealt a shocking snub in the best director and best actress categories, respectively. Meanwhile, as if to pour salt on the wound, Ryan Gosling secured a thumbs up in the best supporting actor category for his role as Ken, the patriarchy-obsessed and vapid sidekick in the year’s biggest blockbuster.
The move by the Academy, which is no stranger to controversy and has faced a torrent of criticism in recent years over issues related to diversity, left a fair share of observers astonished and shaking their heads. It was widely expected that Gerwig, in particular, would get a nod for best director, given that she was the creative force behind the critically acclaimed billion-dollar sensation, which the academy itself recognized by nominating it for best picture.
“Barbie” was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, which is owned by CNN’s parent company.
To many, the snubbing of the pair further validated the film’s message about how difficult it can be for women to succeed in — and be recognized for — their contributions in a society saturated by sexism. While Gerwig did receive a nomination for best adapted screenplay and Robbie was given the nod as a producer, they won’t compete for the year’s most prestigious prizes.
“It’s still so easy for Hollywood to overlook and discount artistic contributions of women - EVEN WHEN ITS THE POINT OF THE YEAR’S BIGGEST MOVIE!” lamented prominent political strategist Jennifer Palmieri, who served as director of communications in the Obama White House and for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign. “My God. It was nominated for best picture. Didn’t direct itself, friends!”
It goes without saying that Palmieri was far from alone in sharing such thoughts. The Academy’s snubbing of Gerwig and Robbie immediately lit up social media, giving way to a flood of news stories and criticism, and sparked broader discussion about sexism on programs such as “The View.”
In fact, it was not just limited to outside observers skewering the Academy. The controversy prompted two of the film’s stars, Gosling and America Ferrera, to speak out and convey their dismay at the cold shoulder from the Academy.
In a statement, Gosling said he was “extremely honored” to have been nominated for the best actor award “alongside such remarkable artists.” He added that he is also “proud that it’s for portraying a plastic doll named Ken.”