Michael Jackson tribute film This Is It is shaping up into a realistic contender for the Oscars, according to US reports.The picture, showing the King of Pop’s rehearsals for his London concert series that never was, has been a box-office smash in the US since opening earlier this week.Now the documentary’s overwhelmingly favourable reviews, added to next year’s expanded 10-movie shortlist for the Academy’s best picture award, has begun generating some Oscar-buzz for the late artist.Respected industry publication The Hollywood Reporter (THR) dedicated a detailed story to the possibility, after various commentators and critics raised it themselves.Although technicalities prevent it from competing for best documentary, THR states the new expanded 10-film shortlist means ‘dark horses’ such as comedy The Hangover and This Is It have a credible chance at a nomination.Producers Sony have already submitted Jackson’s film to the Academy, though that happens with almost every production.But the article added: “The hybrid film’s clear eligibility in the (best picture) category could land it in the mix … especially if voters are swayed by its status.”As well as being a contender for “below-the-line” technical awards, the film could also land director Kenny Ortega a best director nomination.source: Splash News
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