Netflix has another strong contender for this award season, as the first reactions around its next original release – Malcolm and Marie – suggests something special, potentially even some Oscars. From the performances of Zendaya and John David Washington, to the script and direction of Euphoria showrunner Sam Levinson, as well as the cinematography achieved by Marcell Rev, the story of two separate lovers, confined to his home, evidently won the hearts and minds of critics.
“A filmmaker (portrayed by Washington) returns home with his girlfriend (portrayed by Zendaya) after the premiere of a commemorative film, while waiting for what is sure to be an imminent financial and critical success. The night suddenly changes as revelations about their relationships begin to surface, testing the strength of their love. “
At face value, it’s a story that doesn’t jump off the pages exactly. But the first sign that Malcolm and Marie it could be much more – in addition to the great talent involved – it was the bidding war that instigated between A24, HBO, Searchlight Pictures and more. Netflix, of course, ended up securing distribution rights for the extremely intimate film – the final price reportedly amounting to $ 30 million.
What is even more amazing about this whole ordeal is that Levinson managed to write the entire script in just six days, and completed the filing in about two weeks. On black and white 35mm film, nothing less. Not to mention, under the restrictions of COVID-19. Although there is an argument that this production was practically built for COVID-19.
What if Malcolm and Marie in fact it receives an Oscar nod to any key category – Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor / Actress (supporting or leading), Best Screenplay (original or adapted), etc. – will follow the tradition of films like Wedding history, The two popes, The Irish, Mudboundand Pomegranate. The latter, in fact, earned Alfonso Cuaron the Best Director award in 2019. Even without a nod to the Oscars, he might as well still get the right kind of attention like the Safdie Brother electric Uncut jewelry starring Adam Sandler.
Malcolm and Marie will hit select theaters this month and Netflix on February 21.
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