When Jamie Lee Curtis took home the Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 2023 for Everything Everywhere All At Once, the camera panned to Angela Bassett, whose muted reaction became the talk of the town. Was she a sore loser, or was she justified in feeling robbed? Bassett, who had already snagged a Golden Globe for her role as Queen Ramonda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, recently opened up about the loss in an interview with Town & Country. Her words are raw, honest, and a reminder of how much an Oscar can mean—not just as a trophy, but as validation of an artist's lifelong dedication.
Angela Bassett's performance in Wakanda Forever was groundbreaking. Not only did she bring gravitas and emotional depth to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but she also made history as the first actor from an MCU film to earn an Oscar nomination. Her portrayal of Queen Ramonda, a grieving mother navigating loss and leadership, was a masterclass in restraint and power. Yet, when the Oscar went to Jamie Lee Curtis, Bassett's disappointment was palpable. And honestly, who could blame her?
In her interview, Bassett didn't hold back. “I thought I was deserving,” she said, reflecting on the moment. “I have put in the time, put in good work over time. I didn't think that was a gift. I thought it was a given.” Her words resonate with anyone who's ever felt overlooked after giving their all. Bassett's career is a testament to her talent—from her iconic portrayal of Tina Turner in What's Love Got to Do With It to her recent MCU role, she's consistently delivered performances that linger long after the credits roll.
But let's rewind a bit. The buzz around Bassett's Oscar chances began even before Wakanda Forever hit theaters. Critics and pundits like Anne Thompson, Clayton Davis, and Scott Feinberg were already championing her performance, placing her at the top of their Best Supporting Actress predictions. When the film finally premiered, the campaign only intensified. Yet, not everyone was convinced. Some argued that her role, while impactful, didn't quite reach the emotional heights of her earlier work. Still, the momentum was undeniable, and Bassett secured her second Oscar nomination.
The loss stung, but it also sparked a larger conversation about the Oscars and their relationship with blockbuster films. Marvel movies, despite their box office dominance, have rarely been recognized in major acting categories. Bassett's nomination was a step forward, but her loss felt like a step back. Was the Academy still hesitant to fully embrace genre films? Or was Curtis' win simply a reflection of the overwhelming love for Everything Everywhere All At Once?
Conclusion:
Angela Bassett's candid reflections on her Oscar loss remind us that awards, while prestigious, are just one measure of an artist's impact. Her performance in Wakanda Forever was a cultural milestone, and her honesty about the disappointment is a testament to her authenticity. Whether or not she deserved the Oscar, one thing is clear: Bassett's legacy as a powerhouse performer is unshakable. And who knows? Maybe the Academy will come calling again. After all, as Bassett herself has shown, greatness doesn't fade—it only deepens with time.
Personal Impressions:
As a film enthusiast, I found Bassett's honesty refreshing. Awards season can often feel like a circus, with campaigns and politics overshadowing the art itself. Bassett's vulnerability reminds us that behind every nomination is a human being who's poured their heart into their work. While I adored Jamie Lee Curtis' performance, I can't help but feel that Bassett's loss was a missed opportunity to honor a trailblazing career. What do you think—should Bassett have taken home the Oscar, or was Curtis the rightful winner?
“Do you think Angela Bassett's performance in Wakanda Forever deserved the Oscar, or was Jamie Lee Curtis the better choice? Share your thoughts!”
