Ariana Grande Weighs In: Wicked's Best Original Song Nomination

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Post on Jan 26, 2025

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Ariana Grande Weighs In: Wicked's "Best Original Song" Nomination Sparks Debate

Ariana Grande, the pop superstar and star of the upcoming Wicked film adaptation, has indirectly commented on the film's surprising Oscar snub for "Best Original Song." While she hasn't made a direct statement, her recent social media activity and the ensuing fan reaction have ignited a lively debate amongst music lovers and film enthusiasts alike. The lack of a nomination for Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande's duet, "What Is This Feeling?", from the Wicked movie, has left many questioning the Academy's choices.

The "What Is This Feeling?" Controversy:

The song, a reimagining of the iconic Wicked stage musical number, was widely praised for its blend of Grande and Erivo's powerhouse vocals, its emotional resonance, and its overall production quality. Many considered it a strong contender for the "Best Original Song" Oscar, making its exclusion from the nominations particularly jarring. The snub sparked immediate outrage among fans, leading to a significant online discussion across various platforms like Twitter and Instagram. #WhatIsThisFeeling and #Wicked deserved better quickly trended.

Ariana Grande's Subtle Response: Social Media Clues

While Grande herself has remained officially silent on the matter, her recent social media activity has been interpreted by fans as a subtle acknowledgment of the situation. A cryptic Instagram story featuring a simple black heart and the Wicked movie poster has fueled speculation. Similarly, a retweet of a fan expressing disappointment over the snub, while not an explicit statement, has been seen by many as a tacit acknowledgement of the situation and a show of support for her fans.

Analyzing the Academy's Decision: Expert Opinions

Music critics and industry insiders offer various explanations for the Academy's decision. Some speculate that the song, while popular, might not have met the specific criteria the Academy Awards judges prioritize. Others suggest that the sheer number of strong contenders this year created fierce competition.

• High Competition: The 2024 Oscars boasted a remarkably strong lineup of original songs from various blockbuster films. The competition was fierce, and sadly, some deserving entries inevitably missed out.
• Adaptation vs. Original Composition: Some argue that the adaptation of a pre-existing song, even with significant changes, might have been held against it in the judging process. The judges might favor completely original compositions over reinterpretations.
• Genre Preferences: The Academy's perceived leanings towards specific genres might have played a role. While impossible to confirm, the song's pop-infused style could potentially have been a contributing factor.

The Impact on Wicked's Legacy and Future Awards

The lack of an Oscar nomination for "What Is This Feeling?" undoubtedly casts a shadow on the Wicked film's awards campaign. However, the film's overall critical and commercial success might offset this setback. The possibility of winning other awards, like the Golden Globes, or the power of word-of-mouth marketing, might ultimately prove more important for the film’s legacy.

Looking Ahead: The Power of Fan Support

The strong reaction from fans highlights the passionate connection audiences have with the Wicked franchise and Ariana Grande's artistry. This fervent fanbase is likely to continue supporting the movie and its soundtrack despite the Oscar snub, suggesting that the film’s lasting impact isn’t solely dependent on Academy recognition.

What are your thoughts on the "Best Original Song" nominations? Share your opinions in the comments below!