Can YCSE Conquer the Doc Branch?

The documentary 'You Can See Everything' (YCSE) is poised for a significant theatrical debut, bolstered by critical acclaim and A24's calculated release strategy. The film's very existence, stemming from an invitation to document fraudster Elizabeth Holmes before her prison sentence, was kept under wraps for three years. A24 orchestrated 'secret screenings' and limited access, creating immense demand and hype.

Despite its widespread praise, YCSE's Oscar prospects are complicated by the Academy's documentary branch. This branch is notorious for its insularity and tendency to diverge from industry consensus, often favoring films with serious social or political themes and conventional filmmaking styles. Historically, canonical documentaries like 'The Thin Blue Line' and 'Hoop Dreams' were overlooked, and the branch's preferences have hardened following perceived snubs of films they favored.

YCSE's American origin, its collaboration with its subject, and its unconventional nature, which some question whether it's a documentary at all, all pose challenges. Furthermore, the branch may harbor resentment towards younger filmmakers or those perceived as 'outsiders.' However, an intriguing possibility exists: YCSE might contend for a Best Picture nomination, a historic first for any documentary. This would bypass the documentary branch entirely, a scenario previously considered unlikely but gaining traction among awards pundits.

The film's financial success is also expected to positively impact the feature documentary industry, encouraging investment. If YCSE secures a Best Picture nomination, it could unite even the dissenting members of the documentary branch, who would likely rally behind such an achievement. The current Oscar season is closely watched, with 'Oscar Futures' tracking the evolving fortunes of contenders across various categories.