Tom Holland takes on his most serious role so far in Anthony and Joe Russo’s “Cherry”, the filmmakers’ first film after the box office hit “Avengers: Endgame”. Faced with a virtual crowd of journalists and industry voters, the film was shown with a live conversation with the cast and filmmakers moderated by Oscar nominee and “Iron Man” star Robert Downey Jr.
Distributed by Apple TV Plus, the film tells the story of an unidentified army doctor who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction, leading him to become a serial bank robber. It is an adaptation of the book by Nico Walker.
The film appears to enter the Oscar race in several categories. Still, the massive running time with multiple chapters can keep you out of the main award categories, like best picture.
Holland, who appeared on the scene with JA Bayona’s “The Impossible” in 2012, has always been a competent actor, who brings emotion to the future of cinema. Browsing filmmakers like James Gray and Ron Howard, he is able to rise above any mixed reaction to his representations. This is no different.
The 24-year-old actor may be considered too young for a best actor play, but that lays the groundwork for a nomination in the near future. Even his charisma as Spider-Man elevated the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The equally young Timothee Chalamet in “Call Me by Your Name”, who was 22 at the time of his appointment, found his way into a lead actor lineup, but the film also received nominations for a film, director and won the best adapted script (James Ivory). “Cherry” will fight to mirror the same trajectory. Still, Holland’s time with the Academy may be near.
Co-star Ciara Bravo consolidates herself as a notable newcomer, whom we must continue to look for in future projects. With veterans like Ellen Burstyn, Glenn Close and Olivia Colman advancing to an Oscar nomination for supporting actress, there may not be enough time for her to break the schedule.
Russo’s cinematic look is undeniable, and the industry must want them to keep coming out of the big support franchises. The best director is too crowded for their names to enter the mix at this point in the season, which will likely be the same destination for writers Angela Russo-Otstot and Jessica Goldberg. The Russo brothers’ technical choices could put the film into play in some categories, although, most notably, Newton Thomas Sigel’s camera work, which has already impressed with Spike Lee’s “5 Bloods”.
Henry Jackman may be able to make the Oscar selection list by mentioning the original track when it is announced on February 9. Already scorned by “Big Hero 6” and “Captain Phillips”, the English-born composer has yet to find his way on a schedule.
If the film finds any traction with voters, the makeup and hairstyle have high enough points to impress the branch along with the sound, which bring a palpable energy to both the war scenes and the theft scenes.
Does “Cherry” shake the Oscar race? Probably not, but you will undoubtedly be adored by the legion of fans from Holland and any head of Marvel, curious to see what the two bosses behind the highest grossing film of all time have planned.
The reactions will lead the conversation with the voters of the awards and we will see how voters in the sector react to its unconventional structure.
“Cherry” opens on February 26.