5. Godzilla
If any film from the first half of the year stands a strong chance of winning the visual effects Oscar, it’s likely Godzilla, Legendary’s awe-inspiring update of the classic movie monster. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not advocating for any Oscar attention for the work of Bryan Cranston, Aaron Taylor-Johnson or Elizabeth Olsen, or for Gareth Edwards’ direction, or even for Alexandre Desplat’s score (a notably adventurous one for the composer). However, in the technical categories, Godzilla may reign king.
Oscar attention for Godzilla would likely arrive in three main categories: Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Visual Effects. The way in which the film balances sound throughout extensive scenes of citywide destruction is extremely impressive, so Godzilla definitely stands a chance there. And Godzilla’s iconic roar was terrifically rendered for this film, so that will help, too. Godzilla will face some very tough competition from Guardians of the Galaxy, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, Interstellar and The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies. But I’m pulling for the kaiju.
