Your Guide To All The LGBTQ And Queer-Related Nominees For This Year’s Academy Awards

While Cate Blanchett has a fond place in the hearts of queer people everywhere for her turn in Carol, her lesbian role this time around isn’t as lovable. Helmed by acclaimed director Todd Field, the film has been a hit since it premiered, and is now nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Actress for Blanchett.

Blanchett’s turn as Lydia Tár, one of the most accomplished conductors in living history, became a frontrunner for the Best Actress category from its first viewing. Her role as a lesbian who misuses her power and authority is not only one of the year’s best but also potentially a career best for someone already considered one of the best living actors.

While on paper it may not seem like the time to bring problematic queer characters to the forefront, Tár is smart enough not to make the protagonist’s queerness the reason for her actions, choosing instead to do the work to show a person who just happens to be queer.

It’s up to you to decide what to feel about this movie and its queerness, but for Blanchett stans, this is your time. While Michelle Yeoh is the presumed favorite, Blanchett could easily upset her.