Steven Gätjen: That's why Germany looks empty at the Oscars
If the Oscars are awarded in Los Angeles on February 24, he should not be missing: Steven Gätjen (46). The moderator will report live from 23:55 clock for ProSieben from the red carpet. On which stars he is particularly pleased and what opportunities he grants the German Oscar-contribution "Work Without Author" by director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck (45), he explains in an interview with the news agency spot on news.
No Oscar night without you at ProSieben, are you still involved? How many awards is it now for you?
Steven Gätjen: I am so happy to be back. Honestly, I've never really counted, but if you ask me that, this is my 17th Academy Awards on the red carpet, I think.
How big is the nervousness on the red carpet, are you still excited?
Gätjen: Yes, absolutely. But honestly, it's just an incredible, childish excitement. I feel really comfortable because it brings together everything I love so much about my job: It's live, it's about film, nobody knows who's coming to us, I have to be quick and spontaneous and you do not have time to spend a long time to annoy about his mistakes - one should do which. (Laughs)
Which star are you looking forward to this year and why?
Gätjen: As diplomatic as that may sound: everyone! The excitement of the nominees, the pride of the speakers, the gleaming eyes of the newcomers, the volume on the carpet. But, of course, there are a few names I'm particularly looking forward to: Bradley Cooper, Sam Elliott, Glenn Close, Mahershala Ali, and Amy Adams, for example.
Which movie do you think will clear most Oscars and why?
Gätjen: I honestly believe that there will not be a "Titanic" or "Lord of the Rings" movie this year, so films that will, so to say, sweep the statues. It will be very spread. Even though "Roma" and "The Favorite" will start with ten nominations, they will not be able to compete in all categories. But the competition is just too strong for that. "A Star Is Born", "Vice", "Bohemian Rhapsody" and also "Green Book" have very good chances to sack something in the acting categories.
And which film is your personal favorite?
Gätjen: I was skeptical about "A Star Is Born", but the movie totally captured me emotionally. Just like the criticized "Bohemian Rhapsody". For me, "The Favorite" and "Green Book" are among the big surprises and absolute highlights of the past year.
How do you rate the chances for Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck and his film "Werk ohne Autor"?
Gätjen: As much as I appreciate Florian, Tom and Sebastian and as much as I would treat them to the golden boys, I consider the chances very low. The category is just too strong with "Roma", "Shoplifters" and "Capernaum". But how great that he made it again. I'm really happy for him and his team.
What do you think of the fuss about the Oscar-host? Why was it so hard to find a moderator for the award?
Gätjen: The decision of the Academy and in the end also by Kevin Hart, not to moderate even more, was absolutely right. It is almost impossible to win someone in such a short time after this decision. Who wants to volunteer? The pressure is enormous. The audience numbers are falling, the life of the moderator or the presenter is scrutinized closely to discover even the slightest mistake. This is a game with the fire. The decision to put this pressure on many shoulders is just right. Now the Academy has the opportunity to lead the awarding ceremony into a new era and I hope she takes the opportunity.
You have already met many top stars in your career. Who remembered you and why?
Gätjen: I enjoy conversations and interviews in which I have the feeling that one is entertaining and challenging oneself. That does not mean that I want to put myself on par with the superstars, but it's more about being respected with respect. As I said, I also do my job. Will Smith, Tom Cruise, James Cameron, Angelina Jolie, Emily Blunt, Hugh Jackman, Steven Spielberg, Dame Judi Dench, Meryl Streep - these were all encounters and entertainments that will always be remembered.
And who would you really like to meet?
Gätjen: Puhhhh, I was fortunate enough to interview and meet many. I would like to have a good chat with Quentin Tarantino and put my Filmnerd knowledge to the test.I think I have no chance, but it would be worth a try.
