Why No One Is Watching The Oscars (I Hope)

Spoiler: It’s a disgusting PhonyFest

There is probably some less satisfying reason that no one is watching the Academy Awards. Maybe it correlates with the ever-expanding alternative options for viewing. Or people aren’t having watching parties during the pandemic. Or some other less hopeful reason.

But I prefer to think it’s because we’ve finally become thoroughly disgusted with how wretchedly self-important the whole overdone, opulent affair actually is. I watch TV every night I can, and when I go out to do fun things, I actually miss it. My appreciation for actors only grows. I don’t question that good work is being done in Hollywood. It’s better than ever.

But, in the end, the Oscars are just a room full of people who are good at their jobs. I personally know lots of people who are as good at their jobs. People who are just as hard-working and accomplished. The woman who started an improv theater in my town for example. Not only is she a great improviser but she realized a visionary dream of creating a theater that has become a center of improv study, shows, and community for thousands of people. I know a lot of artists and writers who consistently turn out amazing books. I know professors, teachers, editors, and restaurant owners who are similarly amazing at what they do.