Sylvester Stallone, who became a focal point in the controversy for being the sole nominee from “Creed”, which had both a black director and lead actor, said he consulted with director Ryan Coogler as to whether or not he should attend at all. “A year ago was like being hit by a bulldozer and it’s such a frenzy of emotions that you try to remain open enough to enjoy it and remember it”.
Advertisement
Due to the lack of diversity in this year’s nominations, a few actors, actresses and filmmakers like Jada Pinkett Smith and Spike Lee decided not to attend the ceremony. “And he said, ‘No, I want you to go.’ That’s the kind of guy he is”.
“It’s really interesting to me how television responded way earlier than cinema has, in all countries, in terms of diversity”. It’s front of mind and no doubt that will influence things. “If you don’t, I won’t”,’ Stallone, recalling the conversation with Coogler, told reporters. “Sometimes it can feel a little bit much, like I want the birthday party to end”.
Certainly, there’s the universal law of existence: You either adapt or cease to exist.
Meanwhile, Leonardo DiCaprio, who is hoping to win his first Oscar, spent time with Sylvester Stallone who he is pitted against in the Best Actor category. Stallone, though, was nominated for reprising the role of Rocky Balboa in the film – and he’s now favored to win. “It all comes down to I’m so proud of the films and people I’ve been able to work with”.
But the most interesting item might be the voucher for the “Vampire Breast Lift”, which is described as “the new secret “must have” in Hollywood” and is said to use “blood-derived growth factors to revive rounder cleavage without implants”. “If you don’t, I won’t, ‘” said Stallone. Michael Jordan, every time I look in his eyes as an actor, he’s making me better.
Advertisement
The 88th annual Academy Awards, hosted by Chris Rock, will air February 28, live on ABC.
