Are People Still Engaged With the Oscars?
The 2024 Academy Awards, or Oscars, garnered significant viewership, with nearly 20 million tuning in across different platforms. However, the question remains: are people still invested in the ceremony, and does it hold the same level of appeal as it once did?
Has the Viewing Audience Declined?
Unsurprisingly, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of people who watch the Oscars live. The award ceremony has become less of a cultural event that captivates the entire nation and more of a niche event for those who have a particular interest in film. In 2024, more people watched the Oscars on streaming services like Hulu than through traditional broadcast channels.
Moreover, many who do not watch the live broadcast find alternatives such as following news updates or watching clips later. This shift towards on-demand viewing indicates a changing audience base that prefers more convenient means of consuming content.
Are the Oscar-Winning Films Still Relevant?
Another factor contributing to the declining interest in the Oscars is the disconnect between the films that win awards and the general public. Movies like "Parasite" and "Moonlight" might be critically acclaimed, but their widespread appeal is limited. Many films that take home the top prizes do not resonate with most viewers, leading to a lack of public excitement and engagement.
Audiences are increasingly frustrated by the fact that few people actually care about these award-winning movies. For instance, "Parasite" and "Moonlight" are exceptional films with profound social commentary and artistic merit, but their mainstream appeal is questionable. This disconnect between critical acclaim and public interest further diminishes the appeal of the Oscars to a broader audience.
Personal Views on the Oscars
Not all viewers share the same level of enthusiasm. Some, like an unnamed respondent, do not watch blockbuster movies and are selective about the films they invest their time in. For others, the tradition of watching the Oscars holds significance. One respondent, having watched it every year since 1955, shares a unique tradition of tracking the nominees and even has a traveling trophy for the individual who correctly predicts the most nominees in a given year. This group shows a deep attachment to the ceremony and see it as a meaningful event.
Conversely, others like the idea of the Oscars being a "yawn-fest." One individual expresses irritation with the current Best Picture nominees, finding them interesting but not worth revisiting. For this person, watching the nominees on DVD from the library is a far more appealing option than the live broadcast.
Final Thoughts on the Future of the Oscars
The populist appeal of the Oscars has shifted significantly over the years. The increased focus on awards that resonated more with critics than the general public has led to a decline in overall viewership. Additionally, the shift away from traditional broadcast and into streaming and alternative consumption methods has further diluted the public engagement with the event. While the Oscars may no longer command the same level of popularity, they continue to hold a special place for film enthusiasts who value the tradition and the recognition of cinematic excellence.
As the Oscars evolve, it is essential for the Academy to find a balance between honoring critically acclaimed films and maintaining public interest. The future of the Oscars may lie in embracing a more diverse range of films that resonate with a wider audience, thereby attracting a broader and more engaged viewership.