Scarlett Johansson Slams Oscars for Ignoring Avengers: Endgame: 'An Impossible Film'

Actress Scarlett Johansson, known for her compelling performances, has earned two Academy Award nominations throughout her career. Yet, she remains puzzled as to why "Avengers: Endgame," in which she portrayed the iconic Black Widow, only received a single nomination for visual effects at the Oscars.

In a candid conversation with Vanity Fair, Johansson expressed her bewilderment, stating, "How did this film not get nominated for an Oscar? It was an impossible movie that should not have worked, that really works as a film — and also, it’s one of the most successful films of all time." Her sentiments reflect the film's monumental achievement, both critically and commercially, within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Despite "Avengers: Endgame" being hailed as one of the finest entries in the MCU, the Academy has historically been reluctant to award superhero films in major categories such as acting and directing. The only exception to this trend within the MCU has been "Black Panther" in 2018, which garnered multiple nominations. Johansson's portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, from her debut in "Iron Man 2" to her poignant sacrifice in "Endgame," was undoubtedly a highlight of her career and arguably deserving of recognition.

However, Johansson also shared with Vanity Fair her doubts about returning to the MCU. She remarked, "It would be very hard for me to understand in what capacity [returning] would make sense for me, for the character that I play." She emphasized the completeness of her character's arc, saying, "I miss my buddies and really would love to be with them forever, but what works about the character is that her story is complete. I don’t want to mess with that. For fans, too — it’s important for them."

Following the emotional farewell to Black Widow in "Endgame," Johansson reprised her role in the 2021 prequel film "Black Widow," which she also executive produced. This film allowed fans to delve deeper into Natasha Romanoff's backstory, providing a fitting tribute to the character's journey within the MCU.