Oscar Campaign Insights 2018
At a recent round table, Jude Anthany Joseph opened up about campaigning for Oscars after the film didn’t make the cut.
Great films made by Indian filmmakers often get picked as official choices for the Academy Awards every year, while some filmmakers like RRR’s SS Rajamouli campaign for their film independently. The Malayalam film 2018 was this year’s pick for the Oscars however it didn’t receive a nomination. Director Jude Anthany Joseph opened up at a round table with Galatta Plus about just how strenuous it is to campaign for the Oscars.
Oscar journey decoded
Talking to Bharadwaj Rangan at a pan-India round table, Jude opened up about his 45-day campaign for the film, stating, “It’s a wonderful journey, you meet so many people in Los Angeles, US, and screen your film to them. It’s awesome to get their feedback as a filmmaker and even better to represent India. They were surprised that I made the film on a budget of $3 million. That budget is nothing for them, but it’s big for Malayalam cinema.”
Campaigning needs money
He also stated that the first step however is to get a good publicist who can guide you. “I was told by our publicist that even if the jury loves the film, they have to love me too. To advertise in magazines there is costly. It costs $15,000 ( ₹12,48,442) for a single page ad. And you have to take out at least 10-15 ads to get noticed. The producers have to spend crores to campaign for the film there. Pan Nalin (director of Chhello Show) helped me a lot with the checklist of things to do.”
About 2018
2018 is a survival drama based on the Kerala floods in 2018. The film stars Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Narain and Lal. The film hit screens in May this year and in September, it was selected as India’s official entry by Film Federation of India for the Best International Feature Film category. However, it was not shortlisted for nominations.
In 2018, director Jude Anthany Joseph provided a rare glimpse into the demanding process of campaigning for the prestigious Oscars. As the film industry’s pinnacle achievement, securing an Oscar nomination requires more than just a compelling film; it involves an intricate and often strenuous campaign strategy.
Joseph emphasized the extensive effort and resources invested in promoting a film for Oscar consideration. Beyond the quality of the movie itself, a successful campaign necessitates strategic planning, public relations initiatives, and an understanding of the Oscars’ dynamics.
One critical aspect highlighted by Joseph was the importance of film festivals. These events serve as platforms for filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience and garner attention from industry professionals. An impactful festival presence can significantly boost a film’s chances of earning an Oscar nod.
In addition to festivals, Joseph underscored the significance of promotional events, interviews, and a robust online presence. Engaging with the media and leveraging digital platforms are integral components of a comprehensive Oscar campaign, enabling filmmakers to connect with voters and build momentum for their work.
Financial investments are another facet not to be underestimated. Joseph revealed that substantial funds are allocated to promotional activities, travel, and creating a buzz around the film. This financial commitment is part and parcel of the competitive landscape, where standing out requires a combination of artistic merit and effective marketing.
Moreover, Joseph shed light on the role of lobbying within the Oscars ecosystem. Networking, building relationships with voting members, and ensuring that a film remains in the forefront of voters’ minds become crucial elements of the campaign.
While the Oscars are a celebration of cinematic excellence, Joseph’s revelations provide insight into the less glamorous but essential side of the industry. Behind every nomination lies a strategic and often arduous journey of campaigning, where filmmakers navigate a complex web of considerations to secure their spot on the coveted list.
The Oscars, synonymous with cinematic excellence, also reveal a less glamorous yet crucial aspect of the industry. Director Jude Anthany Joseph’s insights expose the strategic and demanding nature of campaigning that underlies each nomination. Filmmakers embark on an intricate journey, navigating a web of considerations, from film festivals to promotional events, digital engagement, and financial investments. Joseph’s revelations offer a rare peek behind the scenes, emphasizing the meticulous planning and dedication required for a coveted spot on the prestigious Oscars nomination list.
As the film landscape continues to evolve, understanding the intricacies of Oscar campaigning becomes increasingly vital for filmmakers aspiring to achieve recognition on the grandest stage. Joseph’s revelations in 2018 serve as a valuable resource for those entering the challenging and competitive world of Oscar campaigns, offering a glimpse into the dedication and meticulous planning required to vie for the golden statuette.
