Tom Holland takes on his most serious role to date in Anthony and Joe Russo’s “Cherry”, the filmmakers’ first outing to hit ‘Avengers: Endgame’. In front of a virtual crowd of journalists and voters in the industry, the film was shown with a lively conversation with the cast and filmmakers led by Oscar nominee and “Iron Man” star Robert Downey Jr.
The film is distributed by Apple TV Plus and tells the story of an unnamed doctor in the military who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction, which leads him to become a serial bank robber. It was adapted from the book by Nico Walker.
The film wants to break into the Oscar race in different categories. Yet the hefty length of time with several chapters can keep it out in the major award categories, such as the best picture.
Holland, who appeared on the scene in 2012 with JA Bayona’s “The Impossible”, has always been a capable actor, bringing excitement into the future of cinema. Followed by filmmakers like James Gray and Ron Howard, he can stand above all mixed reactions to his portrayals. It is no different.
The 24-year-old may be considered too young for the best actor, but that lays the foundation for a nomination in the near future. Even his charisma as Spider-Man enhanced the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The similar young Timothee Chalamet in “Call Me by Your Name”, who was 22 at the time of his nomination, found his way to a lead role, but the film also garnered nominations for photo, director and best adapted screenplay ( James Ivory). “Cherry” will struggle to reflect the same trajectory. Yet the time of Holland with the Academy may be near.
Co-star Ciara Bravo is establishing herself as a notable newcomer, which we should continue to look for in future projects. With veterans like Ellen Burstyn, Glenn Close and Olivia Colman on the verge of an Oscar nomination as a supporting actress, there may not be enough time for her to crack the series.
The Russo’s film eye cannot be denied, and the industry must have them continue to step outside large tent pool franchises. The best director is completely too pushy for their names to mix at this point in the season, which will likely be the same fate for screenwriters Angela Russo-Otstot and Jessica Goldberg. The Russo brothers’ technical choices may play the movie in a few categories, but especially the camera work of Newton’s Thomas Sigel, who was already impressed with Spike Lee’s “Da 5 Bloods.”
Henry Jackman may be coming to the Oscar shortlist for an original score mention when it is announced on February 9th. He has already starred for “Big Hero 6” and “Captain Phillips”, and the English-born composer has yet to get his far in a line-up.
If the film finds a bit of traction among voters, makeup and hairstyle have enough points to impress the branch along with sound, bringing a tangible energy to both the war and robbery scenes.
“Cherry” shakes the Oscar race? Probably not, but it will no doubt be adored by Holland’s legion of fans and any Marvel headline, who is curious to see what the two helmets behind the best-deserved film of all time have cooked up.
The reactions will continue the conversation with the voting of voters and we will see how the voters in the industry react to its unconventional structure.
“Cherry” debuts on February 26th.