Oscar Bait Movies That Are Terrible from Start to Finish

Shortly after its inception in 1929, the Academy Awards quickly established themselves as the pinnacle of achievement in Hollywood. Today, winning an Oscar is considered the ultimate accolade in the film industry. Consequently, studios and filmmakers often strive to create what are known as Oscar bait films. This term, while somewhat nebulous, generally refers to movies that seem meticulously crafted to capture the attention of the Academy and win coveted awards. These films often showcase dramatic performances, poignant storytelling, and themes that resonate with the Academy’s voting members.

Films that fall into the Oscar bait category can vary widely, encompassing biographies of iconic historical figures portrayed by acclaimed actors, ensemble dramas addressing sociopolitical issues, or comeback stories for actors long overdue for recognition. However, the formula for success isn’t foolproof, as evidenced by various poorly received films that still aimed for the spotlight of the Dolby Theatre. While some of these films may possess redeeming qualities, they often fail to resonate with audiences or critics, ultimately falling short of their lofty aspirations.

10
‘Amelia’ (2009)

Directed by Mira Nair

Hilary Swank in Amelia
Image via Fox Searchlight Pictures

In 2000, Hilary Swank achieved remarkable success by winning an Academy Award for her performance in Boys Don’t Cry. Five years later, she repeated this success with a victory for the Best Picture-winning <em>Million Dollar Baby</em>. However, in her quest for a third Oscar, Swank’s efforts took a dramatic turn with Amelia, where she portrayed the iconic American aviator Amelia Earhart. This film chronicles Earhart’s life and her mysterious disappearance over the Pacific Ocean.

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Swank’s performance is undeniably strong, yet the film itself fails to elevate her talent. Amelia is often criticized for its formulaic approach, feeling like a product churned out by a formula rather than a genuine cinematic experience. The film struggles to find a balance between reality and drama, rendering it one of the most tedious films about flying ever produced.

Amelia

Release Date
October 22, 2009

Runtime
111 minutes

9
‘Collateral Beauty’ (2016)

Directed by David Frankel

Michael Pena, Kate Winslet, and Will Smith in Collateral beauty
Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Before finally clinching his long-anticipated Academy Award for King Richard in 2022—an achievement marred by the infamous slap incident—Will Smith invested years in pursuit of Oscar recognition. Some of his roles were truly remarkable, while others were less impactful, but then came Collateral Beauty. This film follows a man grappling with profound grief, who begins corresponding with abstract concepts like Love, Time, and Death, seeking answers to life’s most poignant questions.

While the premise appears promising, both viewers and critics quickly recognized the film’s emotional manipulation. Despite its good intentions, the film’s desperate attempts to elicit tears from the audience and curry favor with the Academy ultimately left a sour impression. The writing is subpar, making it one of the weakest drama films in recent years, and many who watched it are relieved that the Academy didn’t fall for its traps.

collateral-beauty-movie-2016-poster.jpg

Collateral Beauty

Release Date
December 6, 2016

Runtime
97 minutes

8
‘Dear Evan Hansen’ (2021)

Directed by Stephen Chbosky

Evan Hansen speaking on stage in Dear Evan Hansen.
Image via Universal Pictures

Dear Evan Hansen originated as a Broadway sensation featuring Ben Platt in the lead role. This award-winning musical explores the life of a socially anxious high school student and his path toward self-discovery following the tragic suicide of a classmate. However, when it came time for the film adaptation, the decision to cast a nearly-30-year-old Platt in the role, complete with makeup and a wig to make him appear significantly younger, raised eyebrows.

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The film’s shortcomings extend far beyond casting choices. The musical numbers lack vitality, the visuals are uninspired, and the narrative revolves around a manipulative character who lies his way into popularity and pursues a grieving love interest, creating a storyline that many viewers found unsettling. Describing it as “terrifying” would not be an exaggeration. While it initially seemed poised to garner Oscar nominations, even the Academy chose to overlook this misfire.

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