Everything You Need to Know About the Oscar-Winning Film 'Green Book' (2019)
Discover why 'Green Book' won the 2019 Oscar for Best Picture, exploring its compelling story, historical background, and outstanding performances.
A captivating blend of historical context, light storytelling, and remarkable actor transformations.
At the 2019 Academy Awards, director Peter Farrelly's biographical drama took home three Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor.
The film follows the journey of African-American pianist Don Shirley as he tours the racially segregated southern United States in the early 1960s. To navigate the challenges of segregation, Shirley hires Tony Vallelonga, nicknamed 'Lip,' a tough-talking Italian-American bouncer, as his driver and bodyguard. Initially at odds, the two men develop a deep friendship by the end of their trip.
A True Story Behind the Film
The movie is based on the real-life tour of renowned musician Don Shirley and his driver Tony Vallelonga. The screenplay was penned by Nick Vallelonga, Tony's son. However, some of Shirley's family members later stated that significant parts of the story, especially the friendship and family dynamics, were fictionalized.
The 'Green Book' itself was a real travel guide called The Negro Travelers’ Green Book, published from the 1930s to the mid-1960s by postal worker Victor Hugo Green. It helped African-American travelers find safe places to stay and eat during the era of segregation, as many hotels and restaurants were off-limits to them.
The writers skillfully combined historical facts, real characters, and creative storytelling to create an engaging and accessible narrative that appeals even to those unfamiliar with U.S. history or Don Shirley's music.
A Serious Film from a Comedy Director
Peter Farrelly, known primarily for his outrageous comedies alongside his brother Bobby—such as 'Dumb and Dumber,' 'Me, Myself & Irene,' and 'Movie 43'—delivers a different tone in 'Green Book.' While the film includes humorous moments, often stemming from the contrasting personalities of the reserved, cultured Shirley and the talkative, working-class Italian-American Tony, it avoids turning into a slapstick comedy.
Instead, 'Green Book' is a heartfelt road movie centered on friendship and communication, set against the serious backdrop of racism in America.
Outstanding Actor Transformations
Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali may not physically resemble the real Don Shirley and Tony Vallelonga, but the filmmakers prioritized their acting talents over exact likenesses—and it paid off brilliantly. Danish actor Mortensen convincingly portrays the Italian-American Tony Vallelonga, even gaining weight for the role. He is unrecognizable from his beloved Aragorn character in 'The Lord of the Rings.'
Mahershala Ali, taller than the real Don Shirley, delivers a mesmerizing performance, especially when playing the piano. The soundtrack was recorded by a professional pianist, yet Ali’s portrayal makes it seem as though he is playing every note himself.
While Mortensen missed out on the Oscar due to tough competition from Rami Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury in 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' Ali rightfully earned his award for Best Supporting Actor.
The Best Film of the Year
Of course, the title of Best Picture is always subject to debate. Other nominees included Alfonso Cuarón's stunning 'Roma,' Christian Bale’s transformative role in 'Vice,' and the witty historical drama 'The Favourite,' among others.
However, 'Green Book' stands out for its ability to address serious historical themes without moralizing, focusing instead on the authentic friendship between two very different individuals. The film features an excellent soundtrack of Don Shirley’s music and captivating performances by its lead actors, making it a deserving recipient of the year's top honor.
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