OSCAR WATCH: The Songs

The Best Original Song category is always a crapshoot to predict, as it's almost impossible to get a consensus outside of 1 or 2 frontrunners. That being said, the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice awards can be helpful, as the eventual winner usually gets cited by both groups. Here's an overview of some of those songs that have already received some awards attention:

"Glory" by John Legend ft. Common - Selma

This song is one that didn't blow me away when I first heard it (I wished it took the choir to that next level). However, it's only grown in estimation for me and now I can't get it out of my head. It has such an anthemic feel to it that fully captures the film's message.


"Big Eyes" by Lana Del Rey - Big Eyes

I like Lana Del Rey for the most part, but this song is so dreary that I can never make it to the end. Still, I'll admit the chorus is memorable.


"Yellow Flicker Beat" by Lorde - The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1

This song is mad cool.


"Lost Stars" by Adam Levine/Keira Knightley - Begin Again

I tend to prefer when songs are integrated into their films, rather than tacked on to the end credits. This song more than qualifies, as its inseparable from changing dynamics of the plot. Such a great melody and lyrics.


"Everything is Awesome" by Tegan and Sara ft. The Lonely Island - The Lego Movie

A real earworm that captures the essence of the film. It's not a song I would listen to repeatedly, but there's no denying it's catchy.


"Mercy Is" by Patti Smith and The Kronos Quartet - Noah

Yes, I know Patti Smith is a legend but I find this song incredibly dull. Apparently it was used in the film but I honestly can't remember.


"Opportunity" by Sia/Quvenzhané Wallis - Annie

This is a cute song and nothing more. Sia is the bomb though, so I can't begrudge her anything.


My personal ballot would look something like this (in ranking order):
Lost Stars - Begin Again
Glory - Selma
We Will Not Go - Virunga
Not About Angels - The Fault in Our Stars
No Fate Awaits Me - The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby

My prediction:

Best Original Song

"Glory", Selma
"Big Eyes", Big Eyes
"Yellow Flicker Beat", The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1
"Lost Stars", Begin Again
"Everything is Awesome", The Lego Movie

What are some of your favourites from the eligibility list? Let me know in the comments.

Tweet