Oscars 2021: Ranking The Nominated Performances From Worst To Best

It is very hard to judge Maria Bakalova's work against the rest of the nominations as she is the only purely comedic performance on the list. The Academy has a strong aversion to nominating comedic performances, especially ones from outrageous comedies such as Borat, so Bakalova being here is an achievement in itself. A unique performance such as Bakalova's going all the way wouldn't be the most shocking thing in the world.

Bakalova is the breath of fresh air that managed to keep Borat both interesting and unpredictable in its sequel. She has great chemistry with Sacha Baron Cohen and her ability to stay in character like him in the face of anything is worthy of praise.

Regardless, Bakalova was likely given the boost to a nomination for being part of one of the most remarkable and memorable scenes of the last year featuring Rudy Giuliani. That scene alone is what scored her a nomination here.