Oscars 2023: Best Supporting Actress Nominees

The Oscars, that dazzling night where Hollywood's elite gather to celebrate the very best in cinema, always brings its fair share of anticipation and excitement. And one category that consistently piques interest is the Best Supporting Actress. It's a chance to recognize those performers who, while not always in the spotlight, deliver truly memorable and impactful performances, adding depth and nuance to the films we love. Guys, the 2023 nominations were fire, showcasing a range of talent and compelling portrayals that truly stood out. Before diving into each nominee, let's just acknowledge the sheer artistry and dedication it takes to even be considered for such an honor. These actresses have poured their hearts and souls into their roles, and their work has resonated with audiences and critics alike. It's not just about delivering lines; it's about embodying a character, understanding their motivations, and bringing them to life on the screen in a way that feels authentic and real. This year's lineup was particularly strong, making the selection process all the more challenging for the Academy. From veterans of the industry to rising stars, each nominee brought something unique to the table, showcasing the diversity and richness of talent within the acting world. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's take a closer look at the incredible women who were nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the 2023 Oscars. We'll delve into their performances, discuss what made them so special, and celebrate their contributions to the world of cinema. After all, these are the performances that stay with us long after the credits roll, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the magic of the movies.

The Nominees: A Closer Look

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty and shine a spotlight on each of these phenomenal actresses and the roles that earned them their nominations. Each brought something unique and unforgettable to the screen.

Angela Bassett – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Angela Bassett, a true icon in the industry, received a nomination for her powerful portrayal of Queen Ramonda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Guys, this wasn't just a performance; it was a masterclass in grief, strength, and leadership. Bassett imbued Ramonda with a regal bearing, but also a deep vulnerability as she navigated the loss of her son and the challenges facing Wakanda. It's a performance that resonates on so many levels, showcasing the complexities of motherhood, duty, and the burden of leadership. What makes Bassett's performance so compelling is her ability to convey a wide range of emotions with such subtlety and nuance. She can project strength and authority in one scene, and then completely break your heart with her vulnerability in the next. It's a testament to her skill as an actress and her deep understanding of the character she is portraying. The weight of Wakanda rests on Ramonda's shoulders, and Bassett makes you feel that weight in every scene. She commands respect not just from the other characters in the film, but also from the audience. You believe in her leadership, you empathize with her pain, and you root for her to succeed. This isn't just a supporting role; it's a pivotal performance that anchors the entire film. Bassett's portrayal of Ramonda is a reminder of the strength and resilience of women, particularly in the face of adversity. She embodies the spirit of Wakanda and serves as an inspiration to audiences around the world. Her nomination was not just well-deserved; it was a recognition of her incredible talent and her contribution to the cultural impact of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Hong Chau – The Whale

Hong Chau delivered a deeply moving performance in The Whale, portraying Liz, a nurse and the only friend of a severely obese man struggling with his health and past. Chau's performance is heartbreakingly real; she brings a raw honesty and empathy to the role that is both captivating and devastating. Liz is not just a caregiver; she's a complex character with her own struggles and demons, and Chau portrays her with a depth and sensitivity that is truly remarkable. What makes Chau's performance so impactful is her ability to convey so much with so little. She doesn't rely on grand gestures or dramatic monologues; instead, she uses subtle expressions and nuanced interactions to reveal the inner turmoil of her character. You can see the pain and frustration in her eyes, but also the unwavering love and compassion she has for Charlie. Liz is a lifeline for Charlie, providing him with not only medical care but also emotional support and companionship. She is the only person who truly sees him for who he is, flaws and all, and she refuses to give up on him, even when he seems to have given up on himself. Chau's portrayal of Liz is a testament to the power of human connection and the importance of empathy. She reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and that even the most broken individuals are deserving of love and compassion. Her nomination was a well-deserved recognition of her talent and her ability to bring depth and humanity to even the most challenging of roles. The Whale is a difficult film to watch, but Chau's performance makes it all the more poignant and unforgettable.

Kerry Condon – The Banshees of Inisherin

Kerry Condon shone brightly in The Banshees of Inisherin, playing Siobhán Súilleabháin, a woman trapped on a remote Irish island, yearning for more than her limited circumstances. Condon's portrayal is remarkably nuanced; she captures the frustration and longing of a woman who feels stifled by her surroundings and yearns for a life beyond the confines of her small island community. Siobhán is intelligent and ambitious, but she is also constrained by the social norms and expectations of her time. She dreams of escaping to the mainland and pursuing her education, but she is torn between her desire for a better life and her loyalty to her brother and her community. What makes Condon's performance so compelling is her ability to convey the inner conflict of her character. You can see the yearning in her eyes, the frustration in her voice, and the determination in her demeanor. She is a woman on the cusp of change, struggling to break free from the limitations that have been imposed upon her. Siobhán is not just a victim of her circumstances; she is a strong and resilient woman who is determined to create a better life for herself. She is willing to make sacrifices and take risks in order to achieve her dreams, and her courage is truly inspiring. Condon's portrayal of Siobhán is a reminder of the importance of pursuing one's dreams and of not allowing oneself to be defined by the limitations of one's environment. She embodies the spirit of independence and resilience, and her performance is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Her nomination was a well-deserved recognition of her talent and her ability to bring depth and complexity to even the most understated of roles. The Banshees of Inisherin is a haunting and melancholic film, but Condon's performance adds a layer of hope and optimism, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of a brighter future.

Jamie Lee Curtis – Everything Everywhere All at Once

Jamie Lee Curtis, a legend in her own right, earned a nomination for her role as Deirdre Beaubeirdre in Everything Everywhere All at Once. This performance was a riot; Curtis fully embraced the absurdity and chaotic energy of the film, delivering a truly unforgettable and hilarious portrayal of a disgruntled tax auditor. But beneath the surface of the comedic performance lies a deeper understanding of the character and her motivations. Deirdre is not just a stereotypical villain; she is a complex and multifaceted character who is struggling with her own insecurities and frustrations. She is a product of her environment and her experiences, and her actions are driven by a desire to feel valued and respected. What makes Curtis's performance so remarkable is her ability to balance the comedic and dramatic aspects of the role. She can make you laugh out loud with her outrageous antics, but she can also tug at your heartstrings with her moments of vulnerability and self-doubt. She brings a raw honesty and authenticity to the character, making her both relatable and sympathetic. Deirdre is a reminder that even the most seemingly unpleasant individuals are deserving of empathy and understanding. She is a product of her own circumstances, and her actions are often driven by a desire to protect herself from further pain and disappointment. Curtis's portrayal of Deirdre is a testament to her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth and complexity to even the most unconventional of roles. Everything Everywhere All at Once is a mind-bending and genre-defying film, and Curtis's performance is one of the highlights, adding a layer of humor and heart to the already chaotic and surreal narrative. Her nomination was a well-deserved recognition of her talent and her willingness to take risks and embrace the unexpected.

Stephanie Hsu – Everything Everywhere All at Once

Stephanie Hsu completed the stellar lineup with her nomination for Everything Everywhere All at Once, where she played Joy Wang / Jobu Tupaki. Hsu's performance is electric; she embodies the angst and confusion of a young woman struggling to find her place in the world, while also channeling the unbridled power and nihilistic energy of Jobu Tupaki. It's a dual performance that showcases Hsu's incredible range and versatility as an actress. Joy is a young woman who feels misunderstood and alienated by her mother, Evelyn. She is struggling with her identity and her sexuality, and she feels lost and adrift in a world that seems to have no place for her. Jobu Tupaki, on the other hand, is a powerful and destructive force who is determined to destroy everything in her path. She is a product of Evelyn's regrets and mistakes, and she represents the darkest aspects of her personality. What makes Hsu's performance so compelling is her ability to seamlessly transition between these two contrasting personas. She can be vulnerable and insecure as Joy, and then instantly transform into the menacing and unpredictable Jobu Tupaki. She brings a raw energy and intensity to the role that is both captivating and unsettling. Hsu's portrayal of Joy and Jobu Tupaki is a reminder of the complexities of identity and the challenges of finding one's place in the world. She embodies the struggles of a generation that is grappling with issues of race, gender, and sexuality, and her performance is a powerful and poignant reflection of the times. Her nomination was a well-deserved recognition of her talent and her ability to bring depth and nuance to even the most challenging of roles. Everything Everywhere All at Once is a groundbreaking and innovative film, and Hsu's performance is one of the key elements that makes it so special.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, guys! A closer look at the amazing nominees for Best Supporting Actress at the 2023 Oscars. Each of these actresses delivered performances that were truly exceptional, and they all deserve to be celebrated for their talent and dedication. Whether it was Angela Bassett's regal portrayal of Queen Ramonda, Hong Chau's heartbreakingly real performance as Liz, Kerry Condon's nuanced portrayal of Siobhán, Jamie Lee Curtis's hilarious take on Deirdre, or Stephanie Hsu's electric performance as Joy/Jobu Tupaki, each actress brought something unique and unforgettable to the screen. The Oscars are a celebration of the very best in cinema, and these nominations are a testament to the incredible talent that exists within the acting world. It's an opportunity to recognize the hard work, dedication, and artistry that goes into creating these memorable performances. And while only one actress can take home the award, all of these nominees are winners in their own right. They have all made a significant contribution to the world of cinema, and their performances will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come. So, let's raise a glass to these phenomenal actresses and celebrate their achievements. They are the ones who bring stories to life, who make us laugh, who make us cry, and who remind us of the power of cinema to connect us all. And who knows, maybe next year, we'll be talking about your favorite performance! Until then, keep watching movies and keep supporting the arts. The world needs more stories, and it needs more talented actors and actresses to bring those stories to life. Cheers to the Oscars and to all the amazing artists who make it such a special event! Also, let's not forget the directors, writers, cinematographers, editors, and everyone else who contributes to the making of a film. It's a collaborative effort, and everyone deserves to be recognized for their hard work and dedication. So, thank you to everyone who makes the magic of cinema possible. You are the ones who make the world a brighter and more entertaining place. And thank you to the Academy for recognizing the talent and artistry of these amazing individuals. The Oscars are a reminder that cinema is a powerful force for good in the world, and that it has the ability to connect us all through shared stories and experiences. So, let's continue to celebrate the power of cinema and support the artists who make it possible. The world needs more stories, and it needs more talented individuals to bring those stories to life. Good luck to all the nominees, and may the best actress win!