Meet the director nominated for 2 Oscars for 2 different films
Meet the director nominated for 2 Oscars for 2 different films
A Historic Double Nod in Academy Awards History
Winning an Academy Award is the pinnacle of cinematic achievement, a rare honor that can elevate a filmmaker’s profile and unlock new opportunities. But for American director Geeta Gandbhir, this recognition has taken on a unique dimension. She has been shortlisted for two separate Oscar categories, each tied to distinct documentaries, in this year’s ceremony. This dual nomination marks an extraordinary milestone, achieved by only five individuals in the Oscars’ 100-year history, including the legendary Walt Disney.
Two Films, Two Categories
Gandbhir’s name appears on the shortlist for best documentary feature for *The Perfect Neighbor* and best documentary short for *The Devil Is Busy*. Her achievement is not just notable for its rarity but also for her status as the first woman to accomplish this feat. The distinction highlights her versatility and impact across different narrative scales within documentary filmmaking.
“It’s a thrill and an honour,” Gandbhir told the BBC. “Our minds are kind of blown.”
Strategies for Success
Gandbhir shared her approach to handling the anticipation of the nominations. She opted to sleep through the announcements, a tactic designed to avoid the sting of disappointment. While she knew her work was likely to be recognized, the act of watching the live reveals proved stressful. “It’s anxiety inducing to watch the actual announcements. I’ve done it before,” she explained at the Academy Awards luncheon. “Of course, I was awake until 3 am.”
When the nominations were called, she was roused by her husband’s excited shouts over the phone. He was a producer on *The Perfect Neighbor*, while her best friend co-directed *The Devil Is Busy*. The moment marked a shared triumph, blending personal and professional milestones.
“Touch wood,” she said when asked if she had prepared two acceptance speeches. “If I win for *The Devil Is Busy*, I’ll share the stage with my co-director Christalyn Hampton.”
Documentary Themes and Context
*The Devil Is Busy*, now streaming on HBO Max, offers a gripping look at a day inside an Atlanta abortion clinic through the perspective of a security guard. The film underscores the risks faced by staff and patients in the evolving political climate. Meanwhile, *The Perfect Neighbor*, available on Netflix, uses police body cam footage to recount the tragic story of a young mother slain by a woman who repeatedly called the police to complain about children playing near her home.
A Legacy of Dual Recognition
Historically, only six filmmakers have received nominations in both best documentary feature and best documentary short categories in a single year. Alongside Gandbhir, the list includes:
- Eric Nyari (2024) – *Black Box Diaries* (feature) and *Instruments of a Beating Heart* (short)
- Charles Guggenheim (1994) – *D-Day Remembered* (feature) and *A Time for Justice* (short)
- Ben Sharpsteen (1958) – *White Wilderness* (feature, won) and *Ama Girls* (short, won)
- Louis Clyde Stoumen (1956) – *The Naked Eye* (feature) and *The True Story of the Civil War* (short, won)
- Walt Disney (1953) – *The Living Desert* (feature, won) and *The Alaskan Eskimo* (short, won)
Gandbhir’s name now joins this elite group, cementing her place in Oscar history with a groundbreaking dual nomination.
