Josh Safdie's film, starring Timothée Chalamet, arrived at the Oscars with nine nominations and a box office of $179 million. But the night ended empty-handed. Without awards, the film joins the list of major snubs, such as The Banshees of Inisherin, proving that neither money nor marketing guarantees the favor of the Academy.
The algorithm of failure in awards season 🎭
Analyzing the data, the Marty Supreme campaign prioritized visibility on social media and mass events over traditional lobbying among voters. While other productions invested in private screenings and dinners with Academy members, Safdie bet on aggressive digital marketing. Box office numbers do not reflect the secret vote, where factors such as campaign narrative and personal preferences weigh more than revenue.
The consolation prize of $179 million 💰
In the end, Marty Supreme went home empty-handed, but with a full bank account. Chalamet can console himself by buying a yacht with his fee, while the Academy rubs its hands thinking about the drama the next edition will generate. Because yes, losing is in fashion, and selling tickets is too.