The Chicago Film Critics Association (CFCA) nominations are in, with “A Beautiful Mind” in the lead, but this year the klieg lights for the annual awards show will be dimmed. The winners will be announced at a private press conference Feb. 25 at the Goodman Theater.
The economic and political climate played critical roles in minimizing the always well-attended and star-studded ceremony. For the first time since attendance was opened to the public, only critics, sponsors and the press are invited.
“We’re looking forward to getting back on track, hopefully bigger than ever, with a television broadcast of next year’s show,” stated CFCA president Dann Gire. “Also, we benefit tremendously with the return of marketing guru and author, Sharee Pemberton. She gives us a level of consistency to carry us through.”
Pemberton, who organized last year’s big-name event (Paul Newman and Tom Hanks appeared, among others) at the Shakespeare Theatre, has been on a book-signing tour. She’s known as one to raise the bar, both for venue and revenues for the not-for-profit organization, which is also known for its work providing underprivileged kids with opportunities to see movies and relate their experience to academics.
“We’re fortunate that our sponsors are staying with us,” Pemberton said. “We may have some name stars in for the press conference.”
Ron Howard’s “A Beautiful Mind,” a fact-based film about the human capacity for overcoming the seemingly impossible schizophrenia of mathematician John Nash, leads the nominations for the 2001 awards. The drama won six nominations, including best picture, best director (Howard) and best actor (Russell Crowe).
Todd Field’s independent drama “In the Bedroom” tied for second place with David Lynch’s “Mulholland Drive” with five nominations. Both are up for best picture, best director and best actress (Sissy Spacek for “Bedroom” and Naomi Watts for “Mulholland”).
The 49 members of the association, from print, broadcast and online media, vote on five nominees in 13 categories.
New this year are “Most Promising Performer” and “Most Promising Director” categories. Last year’s “Most Promising Actor” and “Actress” categories were merged into the “Performer” category.
Terry Jinks is a voting member of the Chicago Film Critics Association and contributing writer to Inside.
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