In the competitive landscape of the Emmy Awards, the race for Best Drama Actor is heating up, particularly with the presence of two formidable contenders: Hiroyuki Sanada and Gary Oldman. As the nominations loom, the question arises: Should Hiroyuki Sanada be cautious of Gary Oldman?
Sanada, known for his captivating performance in “Shōgun,” has garnered significant attention and praise. However, Oldman, with his role in “Slow Horses,” has also made a strong case for himself. The dynamics of this race are intriguing, especially considering Oldman’s previous status as a frontrunner. His portrayal in “Slow Horses” has resonated well with audiences and critics alike, making him a serious contender.
The Emmy race is often unpredictable, and while Sanada has his supporters, Oldman’s established reputation and the acclaim for “Slow Horses” cannot be overlooked. The Academy’s recognition of Oldman’s series, coupled with the underdog status of “Slow Horses,” positions him as a strong candidate. Sanada’s performance, while impressive, may not carry the same weight in the eyes of voters, especially if “Shōgun” is perceived as more ensemble-driven.
The absence of Cosmo Jarvis, who plays a pivotal role in “Shōgun,” could also impact Sanada’s chances. Without Jarvis, Sanada’s character, Toranaga, may not be viewed as the central figure, which could diminish his standing in the race. In contrast, Oldman is undeniably the lead in “Slow Horses,” which strengthens his position.
As the Emmy nominations approach, the buzz surrounding both shows is palpable. “Shōgun” has its share of enthusiasm, but it has also faced scrutiny regarding its overall performance in the acting categories. The nominations for “Slow Horses,” including surprise nods for Jonathan Pryce and Jack Lowden, indicate a growing recognition of the series among actors, which could sway votes in Oldman’s favor.
While Sanada remains a beloved figure in the industry, the reality is that the Emmy race is often influenced by momentum and perception. If “Shōgun” is seen as primarily focused on other characters, such as Mariko, played by Anna Sawai, it could lead to a scenario where Sanada’s chances are overshadowed by Oldman’s strong lead performance.
The potential for an upset win for Tadanobu Asano, another actor from “Shōgun,” adds another layer of complexity to the race. If Asano were to secure a win, it could signal a shift in how the Academy views the performances within “Shōgun,” potentially sidelining Sanada.
Joyce Eng, a fellow Emmy expert, acknowledges the closeness of the race. While she still holds Sanada in high regard, she recognizes that the competition is tighter than many anticipate. The possibility of “Shōgun” not securing multiple acting wins is a valid concern, especially given the strong performances from other series.
The conversation around the acting categories often leads to speculation about the potential outcomes. If “Shōgun” were to go home empty-handed in the acting categories, it wouldn’t necessarily diminish its chances for Best Drama Series. Historical precedents exist where shows have won the top prize without securing acting accolades, as seen with “Game of Thrones” and “Chernobyl.”
As the Emmy race unfolds, the consensus seems to favor “Shōgun” as a strong contender for Best Drama Series, but the acting categories remain uncertain. The buzz surrounding Anna Sawai as a frontrunner for Best Drama Actress adds to the intrigue, as her performance is seen as a standout.
In the end, the question of whether Sanada should be cautious of Oldman is a reflection of the unpredictable nature of awards season. While Sanada has a dedicated fan base and a compelling performance, Oldman’s established presence and the acclaim for “Slow Horses” make him a formidable opponent.
As the nominations draw near, the excitement surrounding the Emmy race continues to build. The performances, the shows, and the narratives surrounding them will all play a crucial role in determining the eventual winners. For now, both Sanada and Oldman remain in the spotlight, each vying for recognition in a fiercely competitive landscape.
Source: Gold Derby, Los Angeles Times, Entertainment Weekly, Shadow & Act, TV Guide
