4. Shock: Whiplash Nominated For Best Film Editing & Sound Mixing
Who would've expected that, 12 months ago, Sundance hit Whiplash could end up with five Oscar nominations? While the nods for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor were largely expected, many were on the fence about whether the Academy would nominate a card-carrying indie film for major technical awards such as Best Film Editing and Best Sound Mixing? As it turned out, the Academy did themselves a huge service by recognising the movie's terrific editing and sound jobs, which are certainly among some of the most startling and memorable of the year. Kudos!