Later today, we will explore the very troubling Oscar snub for Selma director Ava DuVernay and lead actor David Oyelowo, which potentially has implications far broader than just which movies Hollywood chooses to pat itself on the back for making. In the meantime, let’s explore another, baffling snub: The Lego Movie. Big Hero 6, The Boxtrolls, How to Train Your Dragon 2, Song of the Sea and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya all netted a nomination and while they’re all fine movies (probably. Did anybody actually watch The Boxtrolls? Was it any good? Was it better than The Lego Movie? No, it was not.), it’s hard to feel like The Lego Movie got what it deserves. That movie is positively bursting with creative energy, unforgettable characters, riotous comedy and genuine heart, and it was the easy favorite to win this year’s best animated picture nod, if not pick up a nomination for Best Picture overall. But it didn’t even grab a nomination, outside of one for “Best Song.” But it’s hard to feel like everything is awesome when your movie wasn’t even nominated.
So, what happened? Did Academy voters not see the movie? Did they forget that it came out this year? Are they carrying a grudge from stepping on too many Legos when they were children? All possibilities. Fortunately, The Lego Movie co-director Phil Lord has accepted his snub with quiet dignity, and took matters into his own hands …
