Cillian Murphy, hailed as the frontrunner of this award season by critics and industry pundits alike, has finally graced the SAG Awards stage. The 47-year-old actor commanded attention amidst the flashing lights. Dressed impeccably in a sleek black tuxedo paired with a crisp white shirt, Murphy looked resplendent as he confidently posed with his hand casually tucked into his pocket. “It’s always exciting it’s always a little bit overwhelming“, said the actor about the big Hollywood night.

The actor has been nominated in two categories at the SAG Awards this year for Oppenheimer. One is in the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category. The other is Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role. His win at the SAG would further make his chances of winning Best Actor at the Oscars even more bright.

As Cillian Murphy opted for the timeless charm of black, Emily Blunt made heads turn in a jaw-dropping red gown that was as red as a ripe apple. The dress flowed like a river, gracefully cascading to the ground. With golden bangles, diamond studs, and a dazzling neckpiece, she was the belle of the ball, turning heads left and right. However, the real nail-biter at the SAG Awards is the showdown between Oppenheimer and Bradley Cooper’s Maestro.

Despite Oppenheimer mounting an impressive Oscar campaign and sweeping numerous top awards, the Christopher Nolan masterpiece could still face a credible challenge to dominance at the ceremony from Maestro.

Why Maestro could outshine Oppenheimer at the SAG Awards?

Oppenheimer has been one of the biggest blockbusters of 2023. However, much of its success was driven by the whole Barbie vs Oppenheimer battle. The Christopher Nolan hit was a wild concoction of genres, blending elements of psychological thriller, heist film, and courtroom drama. Meanwhile, Maestro offered a deeply personal narrative that pulled the viewers deep into Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan’s characters.

Lots of fans said that Oppenheimer made them feel like they were stuck in a stuffy, chilly classroom, feeling drained and cramped. But then there was Maestro, lifting their spirits and filling their heart. Considering SAG’s tendency to recognize individuals, and not just their box-office successes or bombs, Maestro could really give Oppenheimer strong competition at the SAG awards!

What do you think about Oppenheimer star, Cillian Murphy’s presence at the SAG? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!