Oscars: Not About Cinema, But Ratifying the Narrative of the Moment

• The Oscars primarily ratify the prevailing narrative of the moment rather than rewarding cinematic excellence that endures.
• Films like *Sinners* are elevated not for their cinematic merit but for what they symbolize industrially, becoming a 'consensus' rather than a movie.
• Historical examples like *Dances with Wolves* vs. *Goodfellas* and *Crash* demonstrate how awards prioritize stabilizing a moment over identifying lasting art.
• Awards function as archivists of institutional mood, reflecting the industry's anxieties and desired narratives, not necessarily timeless legacy.
• While *The Hurt Locker* is an exception, artists who align too closely with current narratives often gain temporary visibility but lack long-term protection.

Why It Matters: The Oscars prioritize current narratives and industry mood over enduring cinematic art, often sidelining truly impactful films.