Retro Oscars: Casting Directors' Masterpieces Revealed

In a creative exercise, IndieWire's Craft team has established a retroactive Best Casting Award, beginning in the year 2000, to honor decades of exceptional work preceding the Academy's new category. This alternate Oscar history celebrates the intricate art of selecting talent, recognizing films such as 'Gladiator' (2000) and 'Gosford Park' (2001) for their stellar ensembles.

The selection process aimed for balance, highlighting both grand casts and more intimate selections where a single role's perfection was crucial. Over the years, films like 'The Hours' (2002), 'The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King' (2003), and 'Sideways' (2004) received accolades for their casting achievements.

This unique retrospective avoids overwhelming wins, ensuring no casting director secures more than two awards. Notable directors like Francine Maisler and Nina Gold are positioned for potential third wins, tying with legends such as Ellen Chenoweth. The list spans diverse genres and eras, including 'Little Miss Sunshine' (2006) and 'Black Panther' (2018), underscoring the pervasive impact of effective casting.

From the early 2000s hits to more recent acclaimed films like 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (2022) and 'Killers of the Flower Moon' (2023), this retrospective casts a spotlight on the often-unsung heroes of filmmaking. The final award in this curated timeline goes to 'Conclave' (2024), acknowledging the brilliant world-building through casting in a complex drama.