Your insight with comedies is spot on as well – comedies usually aren’t taken as seriously by the Academy as dramas, so they are rarely nominated – less of course, “Annie Hall”. However, one area that I’d argue, is the fact that “greatness” in a movie cannot be measured in any way. You hint at that here, but it’s important to note that “greatness” in movies cannot be defined until we first define the term “greatness.” To order to agree with that statement, you have to believe – like I do – that “greatness,” in all respects of the word, is and will always be subjective, no matter what tangible or intangible item(s) are associated with it (in this case, movies).

For instance, to prove my point – behavioral, environmental, cultural (among many other) stimuli throughout any ones’ life, renders countless varying insights and opinions about the world around them. Because of this, “greatness,” becomes an opinion and not fact. It’s for this reason that “greatness” in a movie will always be subjective and open to interpretation. I believe the same thing can be said for art or literature (which I know you disagree with) – but what is art to one person isn’t always art to another. You could argue that there are “measurable” elements in art that, if we can strictly abide to, could define “great” art – same could be said for movies. But isn’t that an oxymoron in of itself? I mean isn’t the purpose of art to challenge the status quo and forms of expressionism? To not be measured by any conventional means, but to let it be whatever it needs to be for the person enjoying/experiencing it? Anyhow, I should digress before I run too far down this pretentious path. Overall – great article, I look forward to reading more – thanks Stan!