handful_ofdust

By Oscar standards, it absolutely qualifies. Perceived zeitgeist applications, check. Large, mainstream, multi-niche audience appeal (nerds, people who think nerds are scary/hilarious [Big Bang Theory watchers, etc.], young people, older people who want to "understand" young people, people who like the idea of shaming big business and yet becoming incredibly rich), check. Great Man of History narrative, check. You look "smart" for watching it, check. Water-cooler chat cachet, check. "Visionary" director making a film that's less threatening/more "normal" than usual, check. Yes, ladies have complained that there aren't enough chicks with agency in it, but I doubt that's stopped them from going (especially with boyfriends), any more than the lack of black people/stereotypes about Asian girls and Jewish guys things has cut much into their bottom line on that level, either. I'm not trying to be dismissive, but I spent a good ten years following this crap, and yes, The Social Network has a far better chance than most. Besides, the Coens already won (twice, right?).