In order to see what audiences think of the Academy Awards, we decided the best course of action was to reach out to our friends, families, co-workers and more to get their opinions on the Oscar race this year. While audiences have no overlap with Academy membership, it’s nice to get some clarity where some people outside the #FilmTwitter space are landing on the films in contention and the Oscars overall.
Our latest Audience Audit comes from Devon, who was raised in San Diego and lives in Los Angeles. He’s in his late-twenties and oversees the e-commerce business for an LA-based clothing company. We asked Devon about his thoughts on his movie viewing habits, the 2023 Oscars, and more!
Oscars Central: Does it make a difference to you who the host of the Oscars is?
Devon: Yeah it definitely makes a difference. I would still watch the Oscars no matter who the host is, but having an exciting host is definitely more of an incentive.
Oscars Central: Do you enjoy the performances of the Original Song nominees?
Devon: I always enjoy the original song performances. Even if I’m not necessarily a fan of the artist, I think it’s cool to have musical performances in the show. It feels like a nice way to break up the broadcast. Seeing the previous performances for “A Star Is Born” and “Call Me By Your Name” were some of my recent favorites.
Oscars Central: Last year, there was a controversy that not all 23 Categories were presented live on the telecast. This year, all 23 categories will be presented live; would it entice you to watch the telecast if not all categories were presented?
Devon: Having all 23 categories highlighted during the show I think is really important. Having a fast paced show and not highlighting all 23 categories, just to give people a shorter broadcast isn’t worth it. I’m happy to see them back showing all categories live.
Oscars Central: For the films you haven’t seen, are you interested in seeing them now that they have received a Best Picture nomination?
Devon: I am definitely interested in seeing more of the best picture films. Starting specifically with TÁR, All Quiet On The Western Front and Everything Everywhere All At Once.
Oscars Central: Do you have people that you would prefer to see win an acting Oscar this year?
Devon: I’m a big fan of Cate Blanchett and would like to see her win. Austin Butler was amazing in Elvis, which was one of my favorite movies this year. I’ve also really enjoyed seeing the resurgence of Brendan Fraser and think a win for him would be so special.
Oscars Central: Aside from Best Picture and the acting categories, which awards do you care about most?
Devon: Other categories I’m most excited for are “Best Production Design,” “Best Costume Design,” and “Best Score.” Those are all really noticeable things for me in a movie so I’m always excited to see who takes home an Oscar in those categories.
Oscars Central: And to end things, what is a 2023 release you’re looking forward to?
Devon: I’m excited for quite a bit this year actually! The new Mission Impossible film, Oppenheimer and Barbie are all at the top of my list. I’m also really looking forward to the new Guy Ritchie film The Covenant, the new Indiana Jones movie, Air, and Dune Part Two.
Oscars Central 