Jeffrey Wright on Oscar Campaigning: “It was interesting. It was a grind — annoying at times”

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Jeffrey Wright has been pondering the hurdles of his bid for an Oscar, in the category of American Fiction, where he received the 2023 Best Actor accolade. He acknowledges that the entire experience was a grueling struggle, particularly the media promotion, but he valued the opportunity to engage with those who have admired his craft throughout his career.

Following its successful debut at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival where it received the People’s Choice Award, the film went on to accumulate additional honors such as nominations for the Gotham Awards and the Independent Spirit Awards.

Wright pointed out that although the campaign sometimes seemed overpowering, it was also significant, particularly when engaging with fellow professionals who acknowledged his entire body of work, not just his movie role. He expressed the pleasure he derived from being acknowledged, but he’s grateful that the frenzied media coverage has subsided.

Wright himself has mentioned that the character in “American Fiction” is the most personal role he’s ever assumed. The movie, derived from Percival Everett’s novel “Erasure,” presents a multifaceted, affectionate yet troubled Black family, which is different from any screen portrayal he had encountered before.

As he was raised amidst powerful female figures like his mother and aunt, Wright discovered that this familial setting mirrored significant aspects of his personal life experience.

As a movie enthusiast, I came to appreciate the profound significance of our production during filming. It was then that I saw the crew’s work take on an increased sense of pride. The extended hours they put in and their heightened focus became evident, as did their meticulous attention to detail. The electric atmosphere on set told me we were working on something extraordinary.

Wright recognized these signs of commitment as confirmation that the film was making an impact.

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2025-01-29 18:44