Oscar Nominations Reveal a Complete Whitewash

It was Oscar fever Thursday morning as the nominations were announced at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater.

We all know that nobody really cares about any of the categories except the main ones and once the big reveal was made – the overwhelming sentiment hinged on the fact that it was an all-white fiesta, with no talents of color represented.

This certainly isn’t the first time that the Oscar nominations have been devoid of black actors, actresses and directors, but maybe the sting is harder to bear because of the present racial climate tormenting the nation.

It is hard to escape the great divide between black and white performers and nobody put it better than Chris Rock. The piece he penned for The Hollywood Reporter received a lot of exposure and gasps from readers who got the inside scoop about the industry in a way that was damning and refreshingly honest.

But acknowledging a problem doesn’t necessarily solve it and after the unveiling of nominees, it was clear that there is still a lot of work to do when it comes to securing an ample level of diversity.

The biggest surprise was the absence of David Oyelowo who garnered a Golden Globe nomination for his much hailed portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. but failed to charm the Academy. Selma director, Ava DuVernay also got a Golden Globe nod, which made her the first African-American woman to be honored in that category, but unfortunately she wasn’t able to make history again. But the film did manage to get recognized in the prestigious best picture category.

Other snubs included Jennifer Aniston who gave an affecting performance in Cake – Amy Adams won the Globe for her performance in Big Eyes but didn’t get a nomination. A few years ago, another actress suffered the same fate – Nicole Kidman won the Golden Globe for her excellent turn in To Die For but failed to get a an Oscar nod.

The rest of it slides in perfectly with the BAFA’s which should have been the gauge for the Oscar nominations since it seems the British have taken over the forecast for winners and losers.

It is hard to fully appreciate the offerings of award shows due to the innate inconsistencies that plague them. They also have a tendency to make you wonder if the recipients have the option of buying their way into the exclusive club (George Clooney getting the lifetime achievement award at the Golden Globes?!).

Either way, it is a time to celebrate the achievements of cinema while also looking to the future with eager anticipation as up and coming hopefuls dream of their day in the sun. The lack of diversity makes it harder for those in that batch to feel confident in their quest – but there is always tomorrow!

The Oscars will be hosted by Neil Patrick Harris and will air on Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Click here for a complete list of the nominees.