Wilde Aims for Oscar History: Act, Direct?

Olivia Wilde is poised to make history at the Academy Awards, as she could become the first woman to receive Oscar nominations for both acting and directing. Historically, men have secured 20 acting nominations for films they directed, with eight even receiving nods for both roles in the same movie. However, no woman has yet accomplished this. Wilde's current film, "The Invite," is generating considerable awards buzz, positioning it as A24's top contender this season.

Adapted from Cesc Gay's Spanish film "The People Upstairs," "The Invite" stars Wilde alongside Seth Rogen as a couple hosting their neighbors, played by Edward Norton and Penélope Cruz, for an evening that takes unexpected turns. Beyond her potential dual nominations, Wilde is also noted in the directing race, where few women are currently seen as major contenders. Her performance in "The Invite" and her role in another anticipated film, "Behemoth!," are also garnering attention, solidifying her prominent year in Hollywood.

The path for male actors to transition to directing and starring in their own films is well-established, with figures like Laurence Olivier, Orson Welles, Warren Beatty, and Clint Eastwood paving the way. Leslie Howard was the first to receive an acting nomination for a film he directed in 1938. Conversely, women have faced significantly fewer opportunities in directing, with only nine nominations in this category over 98 years, and three wins. None of these women starred in their own directed films, highlighting the unique historical barrier Wilde may overcome.