The Most Controversial Award Show Victories of All Time

In 2018, Black Panther roared onto screens as a cultural phenomenon, hailed for its groundbreaking representation and box office success. Many anticipated it as a shoo-in for the Best Picture Oscar, only to be stunned when the conservative drama Green Book claimed the top prize. The irony was palpable as the film offered yet another snub to genre films while presenting a Jim Crow-era narrative from a white perspective.

Yet, as demands for racial justice intensified and the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman reverberated, Black Panther’s significance only grew. Meanwhile, Green Book faced mounting backlash, with criticism from the family of Dr. Don Shirley, the film’s subject, and revelations of director Peter Farrelly’s past misconduct casting a shadow over its once-shining reputation.