Why 'Moonlight' Won the Oscar for Best Picture Over Box Office Success

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Introduction

The recent Oscar ceremony raised questions about the criteria for awarding the Best Picture category. The film Moonlight, which did not even crack the top 100 grossing films in 2016 (according to Box Office Mojo), unexpectedly won the coveted Best Picture award. This article explores the relationship between box office success and the quality of a film, emphasizing why 'Moonlight' is a prime example of an artistic triumph over commercial success.

Artistic Merit vs. Box Office Success

It is a common misconception that artistic merit has a direct correlation with box office success or that success in the box office automatically equates to quality. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and other award-giving bodies, such as the BAFTA and the Golden Globes, base their voting on merit, not profit. This is typically a boon for the industry, as it ensures that the best films are recognized and celebrated, irrespective of their commercial performance.

Why 'Moonlight' Was a Success in Terms of Art

A better question to consider is why 'Moonlight' did not achieve the same level of box office success despite its critical acclaim. 'Moonlight' is a masterfully told story that resonates deeply with most people, portraying the struggles of a queer person of color. This is a unique and a powerful narrative that has earned widespread acclaim among critics and voters. The success of the film in the Academy Awards is not an accident but a testament to its excellence, even if it did not receive a commercial boost it deserved.

Why Did 'Moonlight' Not Achieve the Same Commercial Success?

The primary issue lies in the commercial demands of the film industry. The film industry is driven by the need to entertain and cater to the general public, often overshadowing the need to honor great art. Films that feature complex and nuanced stories or that explore themes that are not as popular, such as those involving abuse, drug addiction, and HIV, may struggle to find a broad audience. However, 'Moonlight' is a film that stands out for its artistic merit and emotional depth, and it deserves recognition for its quality.

Quality of Art and Monetization

The quality of a film is not directly proportional to its monetization. Many critically acclaimed films fail to achieve huge box office numbers due to various reasons, such as the lack of a popular topic, a lack of well-known stars, inadequate distribution, or a poorly executed marketing campaign. These factors do not diminish the value or the quality of the film. 'Moonlight' and La La Land are prime examples, both receiving well-deserved accolades despite their modest commercial performance.

The Role of Awards in Commercial Success

Awards can help to generate more interest and box office success for a film. The accolades received by 'Moonlight' can encourage more people to go and see the film. This synergy between critical recognition and commercial interest is beneficial for both the film and the industry. It also opens doors for more films that tackle underrepresented stories and more opportunities for diverse voices and creators.

Conclusion

In summary, while box office success is an important metric for the film industry, it should not be used as the sole criterion for evaluating a film's quality. 'Moonlight' is a striking example of a film that excels in artistic merit and storytelling, deserving of the Best Picture award. Its win can pave the way for more inclusive and diverse storytelling in the film industry, reflecting the true values and aspirations of the community it serves.