My latest edition of 2013 films that could contend for various Oscars centers on 12 Years a Slave, which gives some actors their shot for their first acting nominations. The pic is based on the 1853 autobiography of Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into the slave trade.
From director Steve McQueen, maker of 2011’s acclaimed Shame, 12 Years a Slave features a supporting cast that includes Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt, Paul Giamatti, Paul Dano, and Benedict Cumberbatch. It is Fassbender, as a sadistic slave owner, who’s been mentioned for Supporting Actor. Newcomer Lupita Nyong’o is already being mentioned for Supporting Actress.
If the movie delivers, expect lots of speculation to focus on the actor playing Solomon, Chiwetel Ejiofor. He’s one of those actors you’ll recognize from many supporting roles, including Inside Man, American Gangster, and Salt. This has a great shot at being his breakout role and a Best Actor nod could follow.
Along with The Wolf of Wall Street, American Hustle, The Monuments Men, and The Counselor (all of which I’ve written about previously), 12 Years a Slave is one more title expected to be mentioned in the Best Picture race. I’ll have more films in contention to talk about soon enough. Stay tuned!
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