Jacob Elordi has emerged as a new frontrunner in the Oscars supporting actor race after winning at the 31st Critics Choice Awards. The Australian actor took the prize for his role as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro's gothic epic 'Frankenstein', a Netflix production. Until now, Elordi had only claimed two critics prizes this season, from the New York Film Critics Online and the Oklahoma Film Critics Circle.
Elordi's win raises questions about whether he has solidified an Oscar nomination slot after being viewed as a fringe contender behind Benicio Del Toro, Sean Penn, Stellan Skarsgård and Paul Mescal. Historically, no Critics Choice winner for best supporting actor has ever missed an Oscar nomination, which bodes well for Elordi's chances.
'Frankenstein' also won three other Critics Choice awards, cementing its place in the best picture conversation. The film's strong showing suggests it could carry momentum into the Golden Globes and Oscar nomination voting, which opens next Monday.
Meanwhile, Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' swept best picture, director and adapted screenplay, sending a clear message that it is the film to beat. However, the film's lack of acting or craft wins raises questions about its ability to convert at the Oscars, a path historically rare for best picture winners.
Warner Bros. led all studios thanks to 'Sinners', which co-led all films with four wins including original screenplay and best young actor for Miles Caton. The film's momentum could make it a late-breaking spoiler in the Oscar race.
