Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is getting a major push from Marvel this award season. Not only from the studio, but throughout the industry and media, it has been getting some Academy Award buzz. These many discussions have led many to speculate Angela Bassett taking home the Best Supporting Actress Oscar prize, which has led to Ryan Coogler weighing in on the subject. Talking to Variety, the Black Panther director praised the star for her work.
At the Taste of Sundance event, where he won Variety’s Visionary Award, Ryan Coogler spoke to the outlet, leading to a question about Angela Bassett getting Oscar buzz. Much of that anticipation for the big prize has been due to her nominations and wins across several award shows, like wins at the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice Awards. In response to the accolades, her director said that she is “so incredible that sometimes you forget.” To emphasize her greatness, particularly her “insane” work ethic, he made a sports analogy.
“I came up playing sports so you notice this working with her, it’s like you have an extra coach on the field. I find on days when she’s working I can get more done.”
Ryan Coogler on Angela Bassett receiving Oscar buzz
The star has only received a nomination for an Academy Award for What’s Love Got To Do with It. After decades of acting without much attention from the Academy, she is becoming a frontrunner for the Best Supporting Actress category. Much of that was due to an incredible monologue toward the latter half of the film that blew up on social media and wowed audiences who flocked to the theater for Marvel’s latest spectacle.
Ryan Coogler was impressed working with Angela Bassett in the first film. He went on to talk about her staying on set, a rarity for actors as they normally stay when needed. To him, it “sets such an amazing example” as people don’t go to their trailers when she stays.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is still in some theaters if you look at what’s available in your area. It will be available on Disney+ on February 1.